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In order for a company to grow and develop, people, goods, money, and information are important resources. While all of these are important elements, it is extremely important to focus on "people" for the long-term growth of the company. In this context, for those who want to know "how to proceed with internal human resource development" and "effective human resource development methods," this article will explain tips for human resource development that will not fail, case studies, etc. If you are serious about human resource development methods, please continue reading to the end. First, let's identify the purpose of conducting human resource development. When conducting human resource development, it is important to first clarify the objective. Without a goal to aim for, any attempt at human resource development will end in half-hearted results. Here, we will introduce some of the objectives of human resource development, so that you can use them as a reference for your own company's efforts. Improvement of on-site productivity The purpose of human resource development is to raise the awareness and skills of employees. By developing human resources who are not only able to follow manuals and perform their duties in a casual manner, but who are also able to work actively on their own, the entire company's productivity will be improved. In addition, with the declining birthrate and aging society, the working population is expected to continue to decline in the future. Companies are also facing a labor shortage, but by improving the quality of each individual human resource, productivity can be maintained. Improvement of the company's business performance Human resource development can be expected to improve your company's business performance. By providing employees with the necessary training, you will gradually change the way they approach their work and their behavior in the workplace. As their thinking and behavior change, the way they approach their day-to-day work will also change. The accumulation of these changes will lead to higher productivity in the workplace, which in turn will lead to higher business performance for the company. Achievement of Management Strategies The ultimate goal of human resource development is to achieve management strategy. As we develop our management strategy, we will identify the skills and operations that are currently lacking. In order to make up for these shortcomings, we will continue and systematically promote human resource development and nurture employees who can contribute to the achievement of our management strategy. However, the series of flows, such as "training → employee retention → reflection in business performance → achievement of management strategy," will take a considerable amount of time to complete. Let's take a long-term perspective while promoting efforts at the earliest possible time. Back to Table of Contents Tips for Training New and Young Employees When looking at long-term management, the key is how to nurture the future leaders of the company. From this perspective, it is important to establish know-how on how to train new and young employees. Below are four tips for training new and young employees. Don't stop at just having them learn the work. When training new and young employees, do not just have them learn the tasks in front of them, but train them to see the whole picture and to be able to carry out their work. In order to train them to become competitive human resources, it is important to assume that they will be with the company for a number of years and teach them to understand the entire flow of work from the time they join the company. Since new and young employees lack knowledge and experience, it is difficult for them to understand the significance of the work they are currently performing. This may cause them to lose motivation for their work. In order to improve their work ethic, it is important to explain to them from the beginning what the significance of the work they are doing every day is. Assigning the right supervisor to each person When training an employee, you need to provide the right guidance for each of them. The content, of course, but also the outcome will depend on who is providing the guidance. The instructor and the coachee are compatible and have different values and ways of thinking. In the case of coaching new hires and young employees, there may be instances in which "Boss B seems to grow faster than Boss A because they are more compatible with each other. The rate of growth can be greatly affected by selecting an instructor who is suited to the individual's qualities. It is important to select the right person for the job, as personality mismatches with the supervisor can be a cause of employee turnover. Talk about success stories in moderation. It is very important to share stories and real-life experiences with new and young employees, such as how you have been successful and how you have grown through your work. When new employees are new to the company, the experiences of their seniors and supervisors are the most important information. However, it is not advisable to convey their successful experiences in an intrusive manner. Social conditions, industry trends, and internal initiatives change over the years. In many cases, the current situation is different from when you were successful, so it may not be helpful at all. In some cases, it may be perceived as mere boasting. When talking about your success stories, try to be as abstract as possible and make it easy to apply them to various situations. Remind them that no one can do it right the first time. It is important for those in a position of leadership to recognize the fact that no employee can do everything from the start. In most cases, new graduates and inexperienced young employees, in particular, do not have the knowledge and skills to be immediately effective. Avoid assuming that they have no experience at all and demanding the same work and the same quality as employees who have been with the company for years. It is important to take a long-term perspective and work to develop them gradually. Back to Table of Contents Points to Consider When Training Mid-Career Employees In parallel with efforts to develop new and young employees by giving them experience, it is also important to approach mid-career employees. By providing a solid education to the middle level within the company, the company's foundation will be more solid. Below are three key points for training mid-career employees. Assign direct junior staff and subordinates. When placing a mid-career employee in a certain position, try to assign a direct junior colleague or subordinate to the same department with whom you have already developed a relationship. There are various methods for training mid-career employees, but by teaming them up with members with whom they already have a relationship, you can expect to see an effect on their ability to communicate things straightforwardly and to learn how to lead according to the situation. On the other hand, by teaming up with people with whom you have had no previous relationship, you can expect to gain the ability to create things from scratch and improve your communication skills. What both sides have in common is that they will be in a position to provide direction. Let them gain experience in achieving business goals in an organized manner, taking into consideration the future growth of the company. Job Rotation. An effective method for developing mid-career employees is job rotation. Job rotation refers to the reassignment of employees to new positions with the aim of developing new skills. This reassignment is carried out based on a predetermined human resource development plan, and is expected to have the effect of providing an overall picture of the company through a variety of tasks, and of bringing about new changes through skill development. This can be done in a variety of ways, from a short span of three to six months to a long span of three to five years, but it allows the employee to grasp the entire business and thus the entire flow of the company. Because mid-career employees have more experience than newer employees, job rotation is a mechanism that allows them to discover new details. In addition, it is also effective in building personal networks with other departments. When you work in a team in the future, you will not have to build relationships from scratch. Allow them to experience positions of responsibility. One of the most effective methods for developing mid-career employees is to work on giving them experience in positions of responsibility. There are various ways to do this, such as giving them operational responsibility for a new store or starting a new business from scratch. By experiencing positions of responsibility, employees are expected to improve their management skills, on-site coordination skills, and communication skills with superiors, subordinates, and business partners. It is also important to interview the candidate about his/her potential and hopes for the future, in anticipation of the possibility that the business you entrust him or her with will take off and he/she will be busy for a long period of time. It is important to grasp how the individual wishes to grow and to prepare the foundation to encourage that growth. For female employees, ask about their wishes regarding childbirth and childcare, and make efforts to create an environment that allows them to balance their work and personal lives. Back to Table of Contents Be Conscious to Avoid Failure in Human Resource Development Incorrect methods of human resource development can lead to cases where personnel are not developed as expected or are not suited to the corporate culture. Therefore, it is important to understand in advance how to avoid human resource development failures. The following is an explanation of the three points to be aware of when training employees. Management clearly states the goals to be achieved by the company as a whole An important initiative to avoid human resource development failures is for management to clarify what the company as a whole is striving to achieve. Without a clear goal for achievement that the company as a whole should aim for, it will be difficult for the field level to know what specific steps to take. Even if each individual sets his or her own goals and proceeds with the work, it will be difficult to achieve high results for the company as a whole. Also, even if human resource development is not progressing well, it will be easier to find areas for improvement if the goals to be achieved are clear. Always explore what numbers and skills are needed to accomplish your goals, and how they should grow in order to achieve those numbers and acquire those skills. In turn, this approach will help unify employee awareness. Set objectives and goals Along with overall company goals, it is also important to have each employee set specific objectives and goals. By setting individual goals, you will have a clear indicator of how you should approach your work and grow on a daily basis. By setting goals, you will be able to take the knowledge you gain as your own, not only in your regular work, but also when you attend internal and external training sessions. Conversely, if objectives and goals are not set, there may be cases where some employees will "just listen to the talk" and not remember the content. Conduct periodic evaluations. In order for human resource development to be effective, regular evaluations must be conducted in the correct manner. Without correct evaluation, motivation will not be maintained, and it will be difficult to see what one is working for. When conducting evaluations, establish a system whereby supervisors regularly check with their subordinates, or senior staff with junior staff, to see if they are achieving their human resource development goals. It is also important to provide feedback and advice on job performance as needed. Back to Table of Contents Five Means of Developing Human Resources to be an Asset to the Company's Strengths There are several means to develop human resources who will be an asset to the company and improve its performance. Since the method of development differs depending on the condition and growth level of the employee, multiple means of development should be used effectively. Below we will explain five human resource development methods, including OJT and Off-JT. 1) On the Job Training (OJT) OJT (On the Job Training) is a training method in which new employees or those with no work experience are engaged in practical work while developing skills and knowledge related to their work. OJT has been introduced in a variety of companies and is expected to have the effect of making employees immediately effective by engaging them in practical work. When introducing this program, it is important to prepare a systematic program that allows new employees to easily get involved in work while at the same time allowing them to grow gradually. On-the-job training is a method often used in human resource development, but in some workplaces, there are cases where people in training are left unattended or specialize in menial tasks. It is important to plan efforts in advance, as there is no point in implementing the program if the trainees do not properly learn the practical work of the workplace. Off-JT (Off the Job Training) Off-JT (Off the Job Training) refers to group training in which participants gather at a single venue to attend lectures and group work together. Off-JT is often used to acquire knowledge and practical skills in a uniform manner, as it is conducted for a large number of people rather than individually. The unique advantage of this method is that the quality of the learning is assured by a predetermined program, and the necessary skills are conveyed all at once. There are many things that need to be decided before the program is implemented, such as the schedule, location, and instructors. It is also effective if the training is conducted in tandem, for example, by applying what is learned in the Off-JT program to the OJT program. 3) Self-development Self-development is a development method that encourages employees to learn on their own initiative, along with OJT and Off-JT, but the decisive difference is that employees are not forced to learn by the company, but rather they are encouraged to do so on their own. What the company should do is to support employees to deepen their learning through self-development. Effective ways to encourage employees' self-development include inviting them to seminars and introducing them to books they should read. It would be better if the company provides financial and time support to employees to promote self-development. 4) MBO (Management by Objectives) MBO (Management by Objectives) is a system in which each employee sets his or her own goals and is evaluated based on how well he or she achieves those goals. Since the goals are set by the employees themselves, they are expected to make independent efforts and use their own ingenuity to achieve the goals. When introducing this system, it is recommended that the company establish a support system to help employees achieve the goals they set. It is also important that supervisors and managers provide dedicated training to confirm the appropriateness of these goals. In addition to simply setting goals, it is also a good idea to look at how well individual goals can be linked to the company's overall goals and departmental goals. 5) E-Learning E-learning is a training method that aims at efficient knowledge acquisition through content that is learned using smartphones and computers. Various services are offered by various companies, and the number of companies and organizations introducing these services is on the rise. The major advantage of online content is that participants can learn from anywhere and at any time. There is no need for group training, so there is no need to gather all employees at once. When introducing this service, select the one that best suits your company's objectives and budget after picking out several companies that offer the service. Back to Table of Contents Examples of Human Resource Development with e-Learning Systems More and more companies are adopting learningBOX as a useful e-learning system for human resource development. Below, we will explain the issues that companies had before introducing learningBOX and how learningBOX has solved them. Ventuno Inc. Ventuno Co., Ltd. has the philosophy of "living beautifully together" and sells health foods and cosmetics that utilize the slimy ingredients found in mozuku (Cladosiphon okamuranus) and kelp. The company has two locations, its head office and a call center, but the company was facing a time-consuming and costly problem in conducting training together. However, by introducing learningBOX, the company has succeeded in building a system that promotes employee learning by reducing travel time and costs. The introduction of the system before the spread of the new coronavirus made it possible to prepare in advance a system that can smoothly provide employee training even in the event of a coronavirus disaster. The Japan LD Society The Japan LD Society is an academic research organization that studies LD (Learning Disabilities), ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), etc. and promotes support using its content. The society had been facing issues such as increasing the number of trainees and users unfamiliar with IT, but with the introduction of learningBOX, a system for conducting training regardless of location has been established. The number of participants in the training sessions and the number of people acquiring professional licenses are increasing. Urunes Corporation URNES Inc. is a company that supports the condominium management industry in strengthening management capabilities and human resource development. To support the industry, we are promoting initiatives to improve the level of human resources by utilizing our proprietary system. The company was faced with the challenge of introducing e-learning that could be used by the elderly and creating content that would motivate them to learn. With the introduction of learningBOX, even the elderly can now learn smoothly using their smartphones. The company has also been able to provide uniform learning opportunities to deputies in all regions of Japan. Furthermore, the company has incorporated learningBOX into a web application to provide an e-learning system that enables management staff training regardless of time and location. Back to Table of Contents Use e-Learning to Develop Your Employees' Skills In order to increase the value of your company, it is important to systematically develop the human resources who will be responsible for the company's future. There are a variety of methods for human resource development, and you should select the best training method for your company's objectives. If you would like to introduce e-learning, which is highly effective for knowledge acquisition, please consider our e-learning system "learningBOX". Not only does this system have a wide range of functions, but it also provides easy management of students, ensuring a smooth system implementation. If you would like to systematically enhance the skills of your employees, please try our free plan, which is available free of charge. ▼ We also recommend this one! Also read. Back to Table of Contents

What methods do you use to memorize things? Not only students, but even working adults are sometimes required to memorize things for certification exams, promotion exams, and so on. Since memorization is something that you will be dealing with throughout your life, it is a good idea to know how to memorize things more effectively for yourself. In this issue, we would like to pick up 15 recommended memorization methods and introduce in detail the mechanism of memorizing and tips on how to memorize efficiently. If you are about to start memorizing something, please take a look at them. 15 recommended memorization methods Here are 15 recommended memorization methods. Learn about the characteristics of each and choose the memorization method that suits you best. Memorization Method 1] Writing First of all, writing makes it easier to memorize. This is because moving your hands stimulates your nerves and activates your brain. In particular, English words and ancient vocabulary are memorized more vividly by writing. Writing is a more effective method of memorization than following words with the eyes. Memorization Method 2] Reading Aloud Reading aloud is also recommended. This will help you remember more easily, not only by providing visual information but also auditory information. It is more effective than silent reading, so when studying at home, try to memorize by actively speaking aloud. However, if you are in an environment where it is difficult to speak out loud, even whispering is effective enough. Memorization Method 3: Physical Exercise It is also recommended to memorize by doing squats, stretching, and other physical exercises. Exercise will help you relax and activate your brain. Sitting in a chair is effective for memorization, but if you find that it does not help you remember as much as you would like, try going outside and doing some light physical exercise. Memorization Method 4] Tell others When you tell others what you have learned, you will be able to memorize it easily. This is because your mind will be organized by explaining it in your own words. Also, by talking to a third party, you will be able to grasp your own level of understanding and see how much of what you have learned has been retained in your memory. Memorization Method 5] Memorize by association One of the most effective methods for memorizing words in ancient Japanese and English is to memorize them by associating them. Try to memorize words and sets of words that are related to each other. For example, if you memorize "round-trip," you should memorize its synonym "one-way. This is more efficient than memorizing a single word and will help you retain the word in your memory. Memorization Method 6: Use colored pens. Using colored pens makes memorization easier. By using red for words you want to remember and yellow for important sentences, you will be able to memorize them more easily. However, be careful not to use too many colored pens directly on the text, as this will make it difficult to tell which parts of the text are important. Memorization Method 7] Use Red Sheets The use of a memorizing pen and red sheets that can hide letters is also effective in memorization. You can memorize important words and phrases while hiding the part you want to memorize. Memorization Method 8: Use diagrams, illustrations, and videos We recommend memorizing not only by writing, but also by using diagrams, illustrations, and videos. Especially in science and social studies (history), studying together with video images makes it easier to visualize and memorize terms. Nowadays, there are channels on YouTube that provide easy-to-understand explanations. Let's combine memorization by watching with memorization by writing. Memorization Method 9] Use Sticky Notes We also recommend using sticky notes for memorization. First, write the word on the front, write the answer on the back, and post it in a place where you can see it in your daily life, such as the bathroom or refrigerator. The key is to always post around 10 sticky notes, keeping the ones you get wrong and peeling off the ones you get right after checking the answers to the words and their meanings. Repeating this process will help your memory to stick. Memorization Method 10] Create a word list Matching words is an effective way to memorize. It can be used to memorize historical timelines and mathematical formulas while stimulating the brain. In addition to the standard "Ii-no-Kuni (1192) Tsukurou Kamakura Shogunate" and "Fill up (1851) Te Taihei-Tengoku", you can also make up your own words for terms you find difficult to remember. Memorization Method 11] Reflective Answers If you can get a third party to help you, ask them to give you a question in a question-and-answer format and answer it reflexively. By answering the question immediately, it will be easier to retain the answer in your memory. If you are doing this alone, practice answering questions quickly using sticky notes or check sheets. Memorization Method 12] Use the Squat Study Method The "squat study method," in which you study over and over again, is also useful for memorization. The memorization procedure is as follows (1) Cover the page of words you want to memorize with a checklist or a large sheet of paper, and answer the questions in order (2) If you make a mistake, understand the meaning and start over (3) When you have memorized all the words without making a mistake, move on to the next page. By repeating the above steps (1) to (3), you will be able to consolidate your memory. The squatting study method is an effective method of memorization, as it eliminates one by one the common "I-think-I-remembered-things" that tend to occur in memorization. Memorization Method 13: Use the Mille Crepe Study Method The mille crepe study method is recommended for use in combination with the squat study method. The name "Mille Crepe Study Method" comes from the fact that you study in layers, just like a mille crepe. For example, if you want to memorize 30 words in 2 days, follow the steps below. (1) Memorize 30 words in one day (2) Memorize 30 new words on the second day (3) Review the 30 words memorized on the first day Repeat steps (1) through (3) until you reach your target number of words. When you think you have memorized all the words, start over again from day 1 for the second week. Memorization Method 14: Use the Memory Palace Memory Technique There is a method of memorization using Memory Palace Mnemonics. In Memory Palace, you place the things you want to memorize in buildings. You order the streets and buildings that you see in your daily life and associate the location with what you want to memorize. For example, let's say that when you leave your house in the morning, you set the entrance as 1 and the street in front of your house as 2. You then set up the words you want to remember for each location. The key is to include a story that weaves a strong image or emotion around each location. Tying it to an unrealistic story will leave an impact on your memory. Memorization Method 15] Use an Application Nowadays, there is a way to memorize using an app on your smart phone. The advantage of using an app is that you can memorize in your spare time while commuting to and from school or work. Also, they do not require bulky luggage like reference books or notebooks. There are an increasing number of apps that allow you to record and highlight your study results, so you can choose the one that best suits your purpose. Back to Table of Contents Subject-Specific Memorization Recommendations Memorization methods vary depending on the subject matter covered. Next, let's look at the recommended memorization methods for each subject. Japanese In addition to writing, Japanese involves memorizing kanji characters. When memorizing kanji, it is important to first read the kanji aloud. Writing the kanji after reading it aloud will make it more effective. Also, simply reading books and familiarizing yourself with kanji will help your memory to stick. If you are not good at Japanese, choose a book of your favorite genre and read it once. Arithmetic and mathematics In the case of arithmetic and mathematics, you must learn how to use and apply formulas rather than memorize them. Being able to explain to a third party how you solved a problem using a formula will help you remember. Ancient Japanese In ancient Japanese, it is important to memorize words and phrases repeatedly. It is effective to increase the amount of memorization, so it works well with the squatting study method and the mille crepe study method, which allow you to memorize many words at once. In addition, the ancient Japanese language has unique rhythms and phrases. As with kanji, memorizing them aloud will help you remember them. Science For science, we recommend using diagrams, illustrations, and videos as a method of memorization. There are many aspects of science that can only be understood or experienced visually, such as diagrams and experiments. It is often difficult to understand just by memorizing words, and it will not lead to memory retention unless you understand the underlying "why this is so. Society (History) In social studies, try to memorize not only one matter, but also the content associated with it. For history, you can memorize the chronology of the year by using a word list. While using reference books, seek a method that is easy for you to remember. Also, watching movies, dramas, documentaries, etc. will help you memorize naturally with interest. If you are interested in something, it will be easier to grasp the cause-and-effect relationships and timelines before and after. English English vocabulary is the most important part of English that needs to be memorized. Instead of memorizing only one English word, you can memorize related synonyms and opposites by relating them to each other. Also, try to memorize them together with example sentences. If you know how the word is actually used, it will be easier to visualize the word and retain it in your memory. Back to Table of Contents The Mechanism of Memorization Memorization is largely related to brain memoryThe brain has two types of memory: short-term memory, which stores information temporarily, and long-term memory, which fixes information for a long time. In memorization, it is said that it is important to change this short-term memory into long-term memory as much as possible. By inserting information repeatedly during a certain period of time, the brain makes the mistake of thinking that the information is something to be remembered with priority. According to an experiment conducted by Hermann Ebbinghaus, a 19th century German psychologist, people forget 66% of what they have learned after one day. (Ebbinghaus' Forgetting Curve) Therefore, it is important to repeat and memorize through repetition using the squat study method, the mille crepe study method, and so on. Back to Table of Contents Tips for Efficient Learning We have introduced specific memorization methods. Next, let's look at tips on how to memorize them efficiently. Stimulate the five senses Stimulating the five senses activates the brain and increases memorization. Those who have trouble remembering may just be following the text with their eyes and not using auditory information. By speaking out loud and moving your body, you will be able to memorize more efficiently. Memorize repeatedly The brain has a "hippocampus" where information is imprinted as long-term memory by repeating it over and over again. Therefore, try to memorize the same words and terms over and over again. Even if you think you have memorized a word or term, it becomes difficult to recall it after a few days. Don't try to memorize them all at once. It is not effective to try to memorize everything at once and cram it into your head. This is because there is a limit to how much a person can memorize in a day. Know that you cannot memorize everything right away, and repeat the lesson little by little every day to consolidate it in your memory. Get a good night's sleep. Memorization should be done with a good night's sleep. This is because lack of sleep will greatly reduce your concentration and memory, and you will not be able to fully benefit from the program. In addition, the human brain works to organize and consolidate what it has memorized during sleep. The best time to consolidate memories is immediately after waking up in the morning when the brain is in its freshest state, or at night before bedtime. Eat a brain-healthy diet. To memorize efficiently, eat a brain-healthy diet. In particular, blue fish contains DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which activates the brain and helps with memorization. Fruits containing vitamin C and soybeans, which help memory and concentration, are also recommended. Combining Memorization Methods Let's combine the memorization methods introduced in this article. If you use only one memorization method, it tends to become monotonous and you will get bored. The point is to combine them in a way that allows you to use all of your senses. Choose memorization methods such as writing, reading, and physical exercise. Be interested in As much as possible, be interested in the genre you are memorizing. If you have an interest, you will be able to memorize while maintaining motivation. For example, for English, you can watch foreign dramas or foreign movies, and for science, you can visit museums or watch explanatory videos. If you are not good at a certain genre, you can ask your friends, acquaintances, or teachers how they memorize. Take advantage of your golden hours. It is said that there are other golden hours besides the morning when the brain can easily input information: before meals and before going to bed. Memorized information on an empty stomach is more likely to be input because the brain judges it to be life-threatening information. It is also effective to memorize before going to bed because the brain organizes information during sleep. It is important to be conscious of the time you memorize. Back to Table of Contents SUMMARY We have presented 15 recommended memorization methods and tips for efficient learning. It is important to memorize by reading aloud and using various useful tools, not just by following the words with your eyes. Recommended memorization methods differ for each subject, so be sure to choose the most effective one based on the genre you wish to memorize. Our e-learning system "learningBOX" can conduct e-learning studies and tests using memorization cards. You can also repeat the study and keep track of your grades, so you can keep track of how well you are absorbing what you have learned. The system is easy to use and low-cost, so it is sure to be useful for you. We also offer a free plan that you can try for free, so please feel free to start with a free trial. ▼Here's another recommendation! Also read Back to Table of Contents

Due to a system malfunction, we are experiencing problems with our grade control notification emails. Date of occurrence Wednesday, March 9, 2022 Description When logging in with an account other than the owner administrator and selecting "Show only unlearned" or "Show only unlearned and studying" on the Grade List screen, the system is unable to send grade management notification e-mails. We are currently working on a fix for this issue. We will report back to you as soon as the fix is completed. Until the fix is completed, we would like to ask that owners/administrators set their own settings when sending grade management notification e-mails under the above conditions. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you for your understanding.

About this Version Upgrade Thank you for your continued use of learningBOX. Today, learningBOX has been upgraded from Ver. 2.16 to Ver. 2.17. In this article, we will provide details about Ver. 2.17.13 (released on March 9, 2022), to which various new features have been added. Click here for a list of new features and functional improvements. New Features Functional Improvements 1. expansion of course functionality 13. expansion of functionality for checking compatible devices Expansion of two-factor authentication 3. Selective content settings 15. Expansion of test mode settings 4. Gradebook 16. Permission to view group management and grade management 5. page designer 17. group batch registration and download function Breadcrumbs are added to the display. 7. Display of question answers/corrections 19. Display of detailed course descriptions 8. Message Box Management Authority 20. Video Basic Settings 9. Video time display function 21. Immediate availability of design customization 10. Automatic video playback function 22. Addition of authentication failure information to access log 11. Curriculum/course description 12. Welcome page redisplay function In this version update, the "Course Function" has been revamped, which significantly changes the way the study screen looks. Many other features have also been added, including improvements to existing functions and expansion of functions that can be linked via API. We will now introduce the 2.17 series version update in detail. Expanded course functionality The TOP of all study screens are now unified with the course materials, making them easier to customize as well as simpler looking. Headings/Clearance Conditions The existing learning control function has been completely redesigned and is now a clear condition. More complex conditions can be set than before. Selective Content Setting This function allows the learner to select only one of multiple learning materials. Gradebook Original gradebooks can now be created and distributed as content within a course. Page Designer You can now more easily change the design of pages that can be created in the Site Customizer. Media Management Videos and teaching materials can now be registered in learningBOX and used via CDN without having to upload media files for each content. Function for displaying answers to questions/corrections Answers to specific questions and corrections can be displayed. Message Box Management Authority Authorized users can send messages to groups and other users. Video Duration Display Function Video content times are now displayed on the "Find Curriculum" and "Select Course" screens. Automatic Video Continuous Playback When there are multiple video contents, they are now automatically played in succession. Curriculum/Course Descriptions Explanatory text can be displayed on the "Find Curriculum" and "Select Course" screens. Re-display of Welcome Page The welcome page can be redisplayed. Expanded functionality for checking compatible devices A [Back] button has been added to the list of compatible devices screen, as well as to automatically read the recommended environment for learningBOX. Expansion of two-factor authentication functionality Two-factor authentication can now be set for specific groups. Expansion of Test Mode Settings Test mode settings can now be configured to display more detailed results. Group Management/Grades Management Viewing Authority Member management and grade management permissions can now be allowed for viewing only. Group Batch Registration and Download Function The group CSV batch registration format has been changed to a clearer display. Breadcrumbs are now displayed in the "General Public Courses," "Select Course," and "Course Details" screens. Breadcrumbs are now displayed on the "Public Courses," "Select Course," and "Course Details" screens. Switching the display of detailed course descriptions The course and folder descriptions displayed at the top of the "Learn" screen can now be toggled on and off. Basic Video Settings Basic settings related to videos, such as the range of video double speed settings and shadows, can now be configured. This function is available for video content with MOVIE Player version 2.1.0 or higher. Design customization is now available on the same day. Design customization is now available for same-day use when ordered from the order screen. Authentication Failure Information Added to Access Log Information on authentication failures is now displayed in the access log. Miscellaneous Please contact our CS sales team if you have any questions or need more information. Inquiry Form We will continue to listen to our customers and improve the functionality of the system to make it even more comfortable to use. The new features and functional improvements added to learningBOX Ver. 2.17 are described in detail in this release note. We look forward to your continued support of learningBOX/QuizGenerator.

Due to delays in the maintenance work being carried out from 8:00 today to upgrade the shared server environment, we will be extending the maintenance time. Before the change Wednesday, March 9, 2022, 6:00 - 17:00 After the change Wednesday, March 9, 2022, 6:00 - 19:00 We will announce when the maintenance will be completed. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

In today's society, digitalization is required in all aspects of life. Education is no exception. In 2021, also known as the "First Year of ICT," full-fledged learning has begun with the GIGA School concept. One of the main features of the school is that one information terminal is distributed to each child. So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of introducing information terminals to ICT education? Let's check them out along with some points to keep in mind when introducing them to the educational field. What is the GIGA School Concept? The GIGA School Concept is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology to provide elementary and junior high school students with one learning terminal per student and a high-speed network environment at school. GIGA stands for "Global and Innovation Gateway for All," meaning "an innovative gateway to the world for all students. The goal of this initiative is to provide each diverse child with an education that is individually optimized and fosters creativity. Originally planned to be developed gradually over a five-year period beginning in FY 2019, the GIGA Schools Initiative has been accelerated significantly and rapidly in response to the spread of the new coronavirus infection. Back to Table of Contents 3 Reasons Why Tablets Are Used in Education Tablets are the main devices used by students in ICT education. There are three reasons for this. Reason 1: They can be carried around without burden. Since it is expected to be used both at school and at home, it is necessary to carry the device with them. Compared to PCs, tablets are lightweight and relatively small, so even lower elementary school students can carry them around without any burden. Reason #2: Intuitive operation Tablet devices can be operated by touching the screen without using a keyboard. Students today are accustomed to using smartphones on a daily basis and are accustomed to operating panels. With tablets, there is no need to teach them how to operate the device from scratch, and they can operate it intuitively. Reason #3: Easy to obtain learning effects Tablet devices can be used for learning materials with colored graphics and animations. This makes it possible to hold the children's interest and provide them with easy-to-understand lessons. Back to Table of Contents Advantages of Incorporating Tablets into ICT Education What are the advantages of introducing tablet devices to ICT education? Let's check from two perspectives: the students' side and the teachers' side. Student's side (1) Expanding the range of classes The use of tablets will enable unprecedented lessons using video and audio, greatly expanding the range of classes. The use of projectors and electronic blackboards will further increase opportunities to use teaching materials other than textbooks. (2) Increased motivation for learning There is a possibility that students will be able to deepen their understanding of the content that they could not understand just by reading the text in textbooks. Using a tablet device, students can obtain composite information from both visual and auditory sources, which increases their understanding as well as their motivation. (3) Become more proactive One of the advantages of using a tablet device is that students can deepen their knowledge by conducting their own research on the content they are interested in. Students can focus their research on what they are interested in, allowing them to take the initiative in their own learning. Teachers (1) Efficient teaching By changing the distribution of handouts in class to PDF distribution and the board to an electronic blackboard, it is possible to reduce the time and effort required to prepare for class. (2) Easier information sharing among teachers If the teaching materials are for tablet devices, information can be easily shared among teachers using the cloud. (3) Easy to utilize as data Class content and student progress can be easily handled as data. By accumulating this data, it can also be used as a clue when considering future policies. Back to Table of Contents Disadvantages of Incorporating Tablets into ICT Education Of course, ICT education is not all about benefits; there are also concerns about the introduction of ICT education. On the student side May not be able to concentrate Less likely to write on paper eyesight gets worse The use of tablet devices, which provide access to so much information one after the other, may cause some students to lose focus. If students no longer need to write on the board in their notebooks and have fewer opportunities to write, this may have some long-term effects. Another concern is dry eyes and poor eyesight caused by looking at the device for long periods of time. [On the faculty side If the tablet device malfunctions, it will be difficult to continue teaching. There is a risk of class content and student grades being leaked to outside parties. If you rely too heavily on tablet devices, it will be difficult to continue teaching if a device malfunctions. It is necessary to decide in advance what to do in the event of a problem. There is also an undeniable risk that class content and students' personal information may be leaked from the Internet. It is necessary to take all possible security measures. Back to Table of Contents Points to Consider When Introducing Tablet Terminals While tablet-based instruction can be engaging and effective for students, care must be taken when introducing it. The most important thing to keep in mind is that security management must be thorough. Particular attention must be paid to personal information, and an environment must be created where information cannot be leaked. Let's build an optimal and safe setting environment. It is also recommended to set age-appropriate rules for usage for children. For lower elementary school students, this should be a good opportunity to gradually increase their Internet literacy, starting with how to handle the Internet. In doing so, parents and guardians should also be informed of the rules. Back to Table of Contents Examples of ICT Education Shinagawa Shoei Elementary School Each student is lent an iPad, and "Information Programming Education," in which students can learn everything from simple operations to programming, is conducted once a week. The iPads are also used effectively in a variety of subjects to encourage independent and inquiry-based learning. [Reference] https://www.shinagawa-shouei.ac.jp/primaryschool/feature/intelligence/ Nihon University Fujisawa Elementary School Our goal is not only to use computers and information networks in the classroom, but also to enable each student to use computers as tools and to properly utilize information networks in order to live in the global society of the future. Reference] http://fujisawa.es.nihon-u.ac.jp/education/ict/ Back to Table of Contents SUMMARY The trend toward ICT in education will not stop and will continue to accelerate. However, please note that ICT education is not unconditionally good. Without a clear vision of what to do, it will be difficult to realize effective ICT education for both students and teachers. It is also important that teachers are properly prepared for this purpose. If you are considering e-learning as part of your ICT education, we recommend our e-learning system, learningBOX. It is intuitive and easy to use, and even elementary school students can easily utilize it. In addition, the simultaneous distribution of teaching materials and grade management can be done all at once, leading to increased work efficiency. Please try the free plan first to see how easy it is to use. ▼ We also recommend this one! Also read. Back to Table of Contents

Checking progress is important for smooth operations. Many of you may be using various tools such as Gantt charts to manage the progress of your tasks and goals. When a project is carried out by multiple people instead of individuals, managing the progress is one of the tasks. So, what are the benefits of managing progress? In this article, we will explain the benefits of visualizing progress management and what to keep in mind when introducing the system. If you are interested in making your project run more smoothly, please take a look at this article. Table of Contents 01What is progress management in the first place? What is its purpose? 02Merits of Visualization of Progress Management Early detection of problems Improves operational efficiency Deadlines can be met Cooperation within the team is created. 03Cautions for visualization of progress management Only progress is checked. There is a gap in the recognition of progress rate Few opportunities to share with the team Relationship of trust has not been established. 04The Importance of Progress Management in Employee Training Benefits for the Company Benefits for Employees 05Summary What is progress management in the first place? What is its purpose? Progress" refers to the "progress of a task or work," and "progress management" refers to "checking the progress of work and understanding any deviations from the plan. It also includes understanding problems and issues that arise during the work and taking measures to resolve them. The purpose of progress management is "to ensure that deadlines are met. Progress management makes it easy to determine how far along the process we are and how much is left to do. No matter how detailed the schedule is, projects rarely progress on schedule. The main purpose of progress management is to eliminate discrepancies between the schedule and actual progress and to meet deadlines. Failure to meet deadlines can lead to a loss of trust in the company and a decline in business performance. Progress management, which even holds the fate of a project in its hands, is now the cornerstone of project management. Simply managing progress is not enough. What is required for team projects is the introduction of "visualized" progress management that can be shared among members. Back to Table of Contents Benefits of Visualization of Progress Management Visualization of progress management is essential for a smooth project. So what are the specific benefits? Early detection of problems With visualized progress management, you can quickly detect abnormalities as they occur. Issues facing the project, such as causes of schedule delays, problems faced by each team member, and operational errors, can be clarified and addressed at an early stage. Delays in delivery and project failures can be minimized. Improved operational efficiency Visualization of progress management makes it easy for all team members to grasp the workflow of the entire project and clarify the priorities of the work. By being clearly aware of "what needs to be done now" and being able to concentrate on the necessary tasks, work can proceed efficiently and work efficiency can be improved. Meeting deadlines When progress management is visualized, each member is aware of the overall project schedule and sets his or her own schedule working backwards from it. By being aware of deadlines, each individual will be able to manage their own tasks more closely, and major delays will be eliminated. This will also make it possible to meet deadlines throughout the entire project without major delays. Cooperation within the team is created. By making progress management visible, you can easily grasp the status of your team members. Since you can see your own status and the status of others, you can cooperate with each other by accepting or delegating tasks according to each other's workloads. This also leads to the equalization of work. Back to Table of Contents Notes on Visualization of Progress Management Visualization of progress management" improves the motivation of members and the productivity of the company, but sometimes it is not as effective as expected. For individuals, using a to-do list or Gantt chart is effective, but if you have a large number of members, please note the following points. If you know of any of the following in your company, please improve them as soon as possible. Checking progress only. Without a clear understanding of the purpose of progress management, project goals will not be achieved even if progress is being managed. There is no point in managing progress with a stance of "just keeping up appearances for the time being. There is a discrepancy in the understanding of the progress rate. The progress rate is "the degree to which work is progressing. The progress rate varies greatly depending on whether it is reported subjectively by the person in charge or calculated from the number of man-hours. It is important to clarify in advance what standards are used for reporting the progress rate within the team. By unifying the reporting standards, it is possible to avoid omissions in reporting. Few opportunities to share with the team If progress is not shared among team members, they will not be able to understand each other's current status, and the overall progress of the project will be unclear. This makes it difficult to improve the productivity of the team as a whole. The easiest way to share progress is to use a whiteboard. The easiest way to share progress is to use a whiteboard, where everyone can see it and update their individual progress daily. Trust is not built. No matter how careful you are in your work, mistakes and delays will occur. Without a solid relationship of trust, such reports are difficult to bring up. It is important to create an atmosphere of mutual support within the team, where even negative things can be reported. Back to Table of Contents Importance of Progress Management in Employee Training Progress management is not only important for business operations. It is also important for internal training programs. Progress management is important not only for business operations, but also for internal training programs. Progress management in training is beneficial to both the company and the employee. Advantages for the company Track employee learning progress. Follow up with employees who are behind in their progress. Brush up the training content based on the level of understanding. By monitoring learning progress, it is possible to know the suitability of each employee. You will be able to give accurate advice to employees who are behind in their progress or who have difficulty in certain areas, thereby enhancing the relationship of trust between you and your employees. In addition, you can brush up the training content to make it more practical and appropriate after checking the level of understanding of the entire workforce. By managing the progress of training, you will be able to develop employees with practical skills in the shortest possible time. Benefits for Employees Visibility of the learning progress rate helps maintain motivation. Know your strengths and weaknesses Receive accurate advice. You will be able to monitor your own learning progress so that you can see the goals you should be aiming for, and this will increase your motivation. By keeping track of your learning progress, you can see which areas you are strong in and which areas you are weak in, allowing you to make your own study plans, such as focusing on areas you are weak in. The company can also track your weak areas, so they can give you accurate advice at the right time. Back to Table of Contents Conclusion The purpose of progress management is to meet deadlines, but the benefits do not stop there. Visualization of progress management can also improve company performance and employee motivation. Find the best progress management tool for your company. Visualization of progress management is also a great help not only for work but also for training. Our "learningBOX", which allows you to manage the progress of training, has all the functions necessary for training management, and allows you to monitor each learner's learning status and level of understanding on an individual basis. Of course, learners can also view their own performance, which can help motivate them. We also offer a free trial plan, so please feel free to try our free trial first. We also recommend this one! Also read Back to Table of Contents

The demand for e-learning is increasing as face-to-face training and learning become more difficult in the wake of the new coronavirus infection. e-learning can be taken anytime, anywhere, and more and more companies are adopting it, especially now that more and more people are working from home. Against this backdrop, many people in charge of e-learning may be considering its introduction in the future. However, some of you may be asking yourself, "What is e-learning anyway? Why is the use of e-learning increasing? What is e-learning in the first place? If you are interested in learning more about e-learning, or if you are considering implementing an e-learning system, please take a look at this article. What is e-Learning? E-learning (e-learning, e-learning) is an abbreviation for "electronic learning," meaning a learning system using the Internet. In the business world, it has been adopted as a tool for human resource development. Terms such as "online learning," "Web learning," "e-run," and "WBT" are sometimes used with the same meaning. In most e-learning systems, learning materials and video materials produced in HTML/CSS/JavaScript, etc., are generally taught using a web browser. Before the spread of smartphones, e-learning systems were mainly used on PCs, but many e-learning services now support not only PCs but also smartphones and tablet devices. Back to Table of Contents History of e-Learning The e-learning form of learning has developed and permeated our lives along with the spread of the Internet and the evolution of mobile devices. Here is a brief history of how e-learning has come to its current form. ＜History of e-Learning The Ages Movements in the world 1) 1950s: Started in the U.S. The development of computers began in the U.S. and other countries, based on the idea that computers could be used to support education. (2) 1990s: Appearance and release of Windows 95 In 1995, Windows 95, which became explosively popular, went on sale, and personal computers spread to ordinary households. (3) 2000s: Full-scale introduction of PCs in Japan In 2000, the then Mori Cabinet launched the "e-Japan Strategy," which aimed to create a Japanese-style IT society. ④2000s: Smartphones and tablets become popular In the late 2000s, smartphones represented by the iPhone and Android, as well as larger tablet devices, began to appear, and e-learning underwent even greater changes. 5) 2020s - Rapid market growth due to the coronavirus disaster The spread of the new coronavirus infection causes schools to offer home-based learning and companies to promote telecommuting at a rapid pace. Collective learning and CAI development before the advent of e-learning Traditional group learning and group education have had challenges in terms of time and cost. Specifically, students and instructors need to be in the same place at the same time, which requires preparation, travel time, and transportation costs. In addition, since everyone proceeds with the same learning in a uniform manner, there is a tendency for differences in the level of understanding on the part of the learners. CAI stands for "Computer Aided Instruction," which means education using computers. Birth of "CBT," a CD-ROM-based learning system In 1995, Windows 95 was released, and personal computers became popular in many homes and businesses. This led to the emergence of a CD-ROM-based learning format, called CBT (Computer Based Training), which provided a learning environment with multimedia learning materials that made extensive use of video, images, and sound. However, CBT had its own problems, such as the cost of creating CD-ROMs, the difficulty of modifying the program, and the inability of the company to manage the progress of the learners. Evolution to "WBT," Internet-based learning WBT (Web Based Training), which refers to learning using a web-based system, was developed in light of the problems with CBT. WBT enables learners to manage learning materials and learning history together on a server, thereby overcoming the weaknesses of CBT. Another key point for learners is that they can take lectures at any time and place with an Internet connection. Today, the online learning style described above is called e-learning, and it is used in a variety of situations such as corporate training, knowledge sharing, and distance learning. Modern e-Learning utilizing multiple devices and SNS The 21st century has seen the spread of mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, and there is a growing need for e-learning to be compatible with multiple devices, not just PCs. The ability to view e-learning on smartphones and tablets is expected to lower the hurdles to learning and improve knowledge acquisition and motivation to learn. Another trend in modern e-learning is the use of SNS to promote communication among learners, in addition to one-way feedback from the administrator to the learner. Dedicated contact points, bulletin boards, and internal SNSs have been set up to solicit posts and questions from learners, with the aim of increasing their motivation. Back to Table of Contents Why E-Learning Has Increased in Importance Why has e-learning become increasingly important in recent years? Here are five of the most important reasons. Reason 1: The Corona Disaster Makes Group Training Difficult With the spread of the new coronavirus, travel to and from the training site and gathering at the training site itself have become restricted. Many schools have taken measures such as canceling school attendance and conducting classes remotely. Web conferencing services such as Zoom are sufficient for one-way delivery of classes and training programs, but they cannot be used to measure understanding or have students submit assignments. Therefore, an e-learning system provides a variety of advantages for both administrators and learners by allowing them to monitor the scores, learning status, and assignment submissions of each learner at any time and from any place. Reason 2: Widespread Use of Communication Environments and Information Devices With the spread of fiber-optic lines at home and at work, and the spread of high-speed, large-capacity communications such as 4G and 5G on smartphones, viewing videos has become a smooth process. The improved communication environment has also contributed to the spread of e-learning, as it has become easier to manage data centrally on a server and allow users to retrieve data when they need it. Diffusion in the Education Field Under the GIGA School Initiative promoted by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), elementary, junior high, and high schools are beginning to provide each student with a personal terminal. Depending on the school's policy, the degree to which students can freely use the terminal or whether they can take it home may vary, but at least one terminal per student is becoming an environment in which students can use it exclusively. In addition, most students now have smartphones. In the early days, smartphones had inferior performance compared to PCs and were limited in what they could do. Recently, however, the performance of smartphones has improved, and web content designed for PCs can now be viewed with almost no problems. Many websites are now accessed more frequently from smartphones than from PCs, and many websites are now optimized for smartphones. Diffusion to the general public According to a study by the Mobile Society Research Institute, among men and women aged 15 to 79, smartphone and cell phone ownership will reach 94% by 2022. Smartphone ownership among the working generation is even higher, making it feasible to offer e-learning using personal devices, although security considerations must be taken into account. In e-learning, the same content is generally provided to a large number of learners, and in some cases, a high level of confidentiality is not required. If a high level of confidentiality is required, measures such as restricting learning to company PCs are necessary. Reason 3: Increased sophistication of work With the advancement of information technology, the knowledge required to carry out work has increased overwhelmingly. We no longer live in an age where we can eat off the knowledge and skills we learned in school for the rest of our lives. Workers need to constantly acquire new knowledge and skills. New knowledge and skills need to be acquired in a timely manner, and there is not always someone nearby who can teach them. Telework has become common, and now workers can work from any location. E-learning is suitable for deploying operational manuals and materials on legal revisions created at the head office in Tokyo to offices scattered across the country. Reason 4: Generalization of mid-career recruitment and job change Job changes have become more common today. It is becoming less common for new graduates to stay with a company until retirement. As a result, the timing of hiring and entry into the workforce has become more varied, and training is now provided according to the time of entry, rather than hiring new graduates en masse and providing the same education and training over the course of a year. If an educator takes time to train each time a new employee joins the company, it may interfere with the work that should be done. Mid-career hires vary in job types and skills, so if everyone is given the same level and speed of training, it is inefficient and does not motivate the learners. In such cases, e-learning can be used to provide training that is suited to each individual according to their level of understanding and can be conducted efficiently. Reason 5: Document sharing systems alone are not sufficient. For the purpose of distributing manuals, document sharing systems such as Google Docs and Google Spreadsheets may seem sufficient, but document sharing systems cannot adequately monitor viewing and learning status. However, document sharing systems cannot adequately monitor the status of viewing and learning. Also, it is difficult to monitor the level of understanding because it is not possible to conduct confirmation tests, etc. Therefore, an e-learning system is suitable for "cases where learning is essential and evidence of learning must be preserved. Back to Table of Contents Benefits of e-Learning If you are currently struggling with how to train employees, share accumulated knowledge within your company, or develop human resources, e-learning is a great option. e-learning brings benefits to both managers and learners. Please see the table below for details. ＜Benefits of e-Learning Administrators Cost reductions can be expected. Centralized management of learner progress, grades, and attendance information Easier to revise and update course materials Easy to provide appropriate learning materials for each learner Learners Can repeat the course Less time and place constraints Easy to monitor progress and level of understanding Easy to use smartphones and tablet devices Back to Table of Contents Disadvantages of E-Learning and their Countermeasures By understanding the weaknesses of e-learning, you can take countermeasures when you implement e-learning. We will explain specific countermeasures to help you. Difficulty in maintaining motivation In the case of e-learning, the educator and learner do not meet face to face. Therefore, unlike in schools or other educational settings or in corporate group training, motivation cannot be maintained by the skills of the educator. In order to maintain motivation, it is of course important to provide interesting and effective learning materials, but e-learning is often conducted during work hours or while traveling, so a "micro" structure is preferred. While a typical school class or group training session lasts 45 to 90 minutes, a few minutes per session is preferable for e-learning. In addition, e-learning may be designed to arouse a desire to collect and compete by using systems such as rankings, badges (medals), and guilds (team cooperation and joint responsibility) like those used in social games. The learner's face is not visible. The "inability to see the learner's face" also means that we do not know the learner's level of understanding, feelings, questions, etc. If you include questions to check comprehension, you will be able to get an idea of their level of understanding. You can check their feelings and questions by asking them to answer questions in the form of a report or a questionnaire. E-learning allows students to complete their learning online, and because they cannot see each other, careful communication is necessary. Difficult to secure content While it may seem difficult to create educational materials from scratch, some e-learning systems allow you to upload and use content that is already available. For schools Some e-learning systems for schools provide teaching materials that are aligned with educational guidelines and textbooks. By using such e-learning systems, you can introduce e-learning without the hassle of creating teaching materials. For private companies If the content is directly related to business operations, there are no ready-made materials available, so it is necessary to either create the materials in-house or use an e-learning materials production company. Using an outsourcing company makes it easier to create great-looking content, but it is also more expensive and difficult to update the content, so it is important to distinguish between outsourcing and in-house support. Back to Table of Contents What You Need to Implement E-Learning When implementing e-learning, you need to prepare two main components: a learning management system (LMS) and learning materials. Here we introduce each of them. Learning Management System (LMS) LMS is an abbreviation for "Learning Management System," a system that enables the creation and distribution of e-learning learning materials and the centralized management of learning progress and grades. It is the foundation for the development of an environment that supports effective e-learning implementation. study material Even if you have a high-quality system, it will be a waste of resources if you do not have effective learning materials. Systems that allow users to create and select from a variety of types of quizzes, tests, questionnaires, etc. are now available to enable the creation of high-quality learning materials. When preparing learning materials, choose the best one from the following three methods according to your objectives and budget. Use off-the-shelf products from companies that provide educational materials specialized in areas such as sales and PC skills Hire an e-learning company to produce the e-learning course. Produce the e-learning program using only your own resources Back to Table of Contents Use e-Learning to Create an Efficient Learning Environment! In this issue, we have reported on the history of e-learning, the reasons for its growing importance, and its advantages and disadvantages. e-learning is expected to be used more and more in the future, and its adoption is expected to increase in many more situations than now. Let's build an environment for efficient learning by taking advantage of its merits and covering its demerits well. If you are considering the introduction of an e-learning system for your e-learning implementation, please take advantage of "learningBOX. This e-learning system is characterized by its ease of use that requires no complicated operations and reasonable fees, making it easy for even those without specialized knowledge to create teaching materials and tests. Up to 10 accounts are available free of charge, so please feel free to start with a free trial. ▼Here's another recommendation! Also read. Back to Table of Contents

Due in part to various social conditions, the wave of digitization is spreading throughout Japan. In this context, many managers and staff members may be interested in digitizing the manuals they operate within their companies. In this article, we will explain the background behind the spread of digitization of manuals and the benefits of digitization. We will also introduce the procedures for digitization, so please continue reading to the end of this article if you are interested in renewing your manual operation system. Background of the increasing digitization of manuals The spread of the new coronavirus that began in 2020 has brought attention to the widespread use of remote work and DXing within companies in Japan. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the rate of telework adoption by the private sector rose from 17.6% to 56.4% during the first emergency declaration and again to 38.4% during the second emergency declaration. Source: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications This is because there is a growing trend to replace conventionally operated paper manuals with electronic manuals when introducing teleworking. With the spread of telework, companies are required to create an environment where manuals can be accessed from multiple locations. The realization of digitization will make business operations more efficient. Back to Table of Contents Advantages of Digitizing Manuals As the trend toward digitization is accelerating in all areas, so too is the digitization of manuals. In this context, many of you may want to know what advantages can be gained by digitizing manuals. Here are three advantages of digitizing manuals. Increased operational efficiency By digitizing manuals, paper manuals can be organized, classified, and stored systematically. This will improve work efficiency by making it easier to search for information, even if the manuals are voluminous. Another major advantage is that information can be accessed anytime, anywhere. Enables joint management Manuals must be created, stored, and updated in order to be maintained. While updating paper-based manuals is not a frequent task in terms of printing and storage, digitization makes it easy for anyone to update them. In addition, since electronic manuals can be managed collaboratively, the various tasks involved in updating can be carried out simultaneously. It can be said that electronic manuals are better suited for practical operations. Eliminates the need to carry them around Digitizing manuals eliminates the hassle of carrying them around. In the past, manuals had to be pulled out of paper media before use, but with electronic manuals, this process is no longer necessary. The ability to quickly retrieve necessary information at any time is a major advantage. The restrictions on location and time are eliminated, and work can proceed smoothly even when you are away from home, as you only need to carry your PC or smartphone. Back to Table of Contents Disadvantages of Digitizing Manuals While there are many advantages to digitizing manuals, there are also disadvantages. It is important to understand the differences from the paper-based media that have been in operation up to now. Here are two disadvantages of digitizing manuals. Cannot check multiple pages at the same time Unlike paper media, electronic media cannot reference multiple pages or multiple booklets at once. If you have been following business procedures by spreading out multiple manuals, digitizing your manuals may adversely affect your efficiency. Depending on the situation, it may be necessary to prepare two terminals or to make the electronic manuals compatible with split screens. Difficulties in transitioning to electronic manuals in some cases It is not easy to convert a large number of manuals to electronic format at once. Let's move from paper to electronic media little by little, depending on the situation. It is also necessary to make adjustments for those who prefer to use paper media or are accustomed to paper media operation. While communicating the benefits of digitization, it may be necessary to consider simultaneous operation with paper media in cases where this is inevitably unacceptable. Back to Table of Contents Procedures for Digitizing Manuals The procedure for digitizing manuals can be divided into the following four steps STEP1: Decide on the manuals to be digitized STEP2: Prepare the tools to be used for digitization STEP3: Reconfirm the table of contents and overall structure STEP4: Start digitization using various tools Understand what needs to be done at each step, and proceed smoothly with the digitization of your manuals. Decide which manuals to digitize The first step is to decide which manuals are to be digitized and determine the purpose. Based on the benefits to be gained by digitizing manuals, select which manuals will be digitized first, such as those for new employees, sales employees, and field workers. Prepare the tools to be used for digitization Once the target manuals are determined, determine which tools will be used to digitize them. First, decide whether you will use free tools or paid tools. Typical free tools include Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Spreadsheets. In addition, a variety of paid tools have been released by various companies. Check the details of each service and choose the one that best suits your purpose. Reconfirm the table of contents and overall structure Once the tool to be digitized has been decided, review the existing contents, including the scope of work, advance preparation, procedures, and the level of detail required, and reconfirm the table of contents and overall structure. If there have been any problems in the past with paper-based media, correct them here. When revising the manual, it is important to reexamine what you want to convey in the manual, and then systematically restructure it. Final checks should be made for digitization, including additions and deletions. Start digitization using various tools Once the content has been finalized, it is time to begin digitization. Depending on the tool you use, you may need to input the information into a template or import existing files while digitizing. After the manual is completed and distributed, it is important to make improvements as you use it. Since digitization makes it easier to update the manual, make revisions as necessary to make the manual more complete. Back to Table of Contents Let's move forward with IT in our company! The number of companies that are working on the computerization of manuals is gradually increasing, encouraged by the recent social situation. Let's consider the advantages and disadvantages, and how we should tackle the issue before proceeding. When digitizing, it is also important to scrutinize the work procedures. If you would like to review your in-house training methods in conjunction with the computerization of manuals, please consider our learning management system "learningBOX". With its complete set of functions, including the creation and distribution of teaching materials, grade management, and participant management, it is the perfect IT solution for in-house training systems. 10 accounts can be used free of charge for an unlimited period, so please feel free to try it out for a free trial. ▼Here's another recommendation! Also read. Back to Table of Contents

Introducing 9 effective human resource development methods! Explanation of key points of implementation and how to proceed. In order to increase a company's strength, human resource development must be conducted effectively and efficiently. Some managers and human resource managers may have questions such as, "I want to know how to improve the skills of my employees," or "I want to know how to decide on a training policy based on the level of employees. In this article, we will explain the methods and implementation points of human resource development. If you are interested in reviewing your training methods in accordance with your company's actual situation, please continue reading to the end of this article. Click here for Table of Contents What is the importance of human resource development? 9 Typical Human Resource Development Methods Key Points for Smooth Implementation of Human Resource Development Procedures for promoting human resources development Supporting Human Resource Development through e-Learning What is the importance of human resource development? People, goods, money, and information are important as resources that increase the value of a company. All of these are very important items in corporate management, but people are said to be the most important resource among them. The growth of human resources is directly related to the growth of a company, and failure to develop human resources can lead to a loss of market competitiveness. In addition, we are approaching an era in which globalization demands the development of human resources who can be active not only domestically but also internationally. Developing high-level human resources who can be active in all situations, both domestically and internationally, will lead to the growth of the company itself. Nine typical human resource development methods There are various methods of human resource development, and they should be used according to the situation. Since new hires and mid-career employees have different levels of experience and skills, the training methods to be taken may differ. The following is an explanation of nine human resource development methods, including on-the-job training for new employees. On-the-Job Training (OJT) OJT is a method of acquiring necessary knowledge and skills through on-the-job training. OJT has been introduced by many companies and is highly popular as a means of efficiently promoting immediate job skills. Since senior employees are nearby to help you with your practical work, you can expect to acquire skills quickly. While on-the-job training programs for new employees tend to be well established, many companies have yet to develop programs for mid-career employees. Off-JT (Off-the-Job Training) Off-JT refers to group training in which lectures and group work are conducted in a single location. Since trainees gather in the same place to receive training, it is characterized by the ability to train a large number of people at one time. Because it is a human resource development method that targets multiple people, the quality of the training is less likely to be blurred and a certain level of quality can be maintained. Another feature of this method is that it enables participants to prepare for actual work through role-playing and other methods in order to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned. By acquiring knowledge in advance, you will be able to work with peace of mind. E-learning E-learning is a training method in which knowledge is acquired by digesting online content using a smartphone or computer. In recent years, many services have been released and an increasing number of companies are adopting them. Group training requires the arrangement of a venue and the request of an instructor, but none of these costs are required. Another key point is that the system allows you to learn regardless of location, so you can make effective use of your free time while commuting to work. On the other hand, the depth of learning varies depending on the motivation of the student, which is an issue. Mentoring System The mentor system is a training method in which senior employees (mentors) provide guidance and support on a one-on-one basis, mainly to new employees. This system covers a wide range of areas from accumulation of work experience to mental care. By having a senior employee, rather than a supervisor, provide guidance, the system solves problems that new employees tend to have, such as "I don't have a senior employee I can talk to anytime about my work or private life problems," and creates an environment in which it is easier to ask for help. An increasing number of companies are introducing mentoring programs with the aim of revitalizing the company and reducing turnover. Job Rotation Job rotation is a method of training employees by reassigning them to different positions with the aim of developing their skills. Unlike regular personnel transfers, job rotation is strategically implemented based on a clear human resource development plan to promote long-term growth. The main objectives are to place the right person in the right position, to gain an overall picture of the company through various tasks, and to bring about new innovations through skill development. In many cases, the program tends to target future executive candidates. Various methods are used, ranging from assignments to multiple departments over a short period of time, such as three to six months, to assignments to a single department over a long period of time, such as three to five years. Management by Objectives (MBO) The Management by Objectives (MBO) system is a system in which each employee is asked to set goals and is evaluated based on the degree of achievement of those goals. It is a method of training employees to become more proactive, expecting them to work with their own ingenuity and effort in order to achieve the goals they set. When setting goals, relate them to the goals of the company as a whole and to the goals of the department. This is to foster an awareness of the need to contribute not only to one's own growth, but also to the company itself. In addition, it is necessary to have your supervisor or the person in charge check the appropriateness of the content of the goals you set. Coaching Coaching is a training method in which the supervisor helps the trainee achieve his or her goals through advice and questions. Coaching has been introduced by many companies as a method to motivate employees while promoting their autonomy. Supervisors with a wealth of knowledge and experience are required to implement this method. Training for the coachee is also necessary, as the key is how to guide the coachee toward his or her goals. Teaching Teaching is a training method in which a supervisor or senior employee passes on information and skills to the trainee. The main purpose is to convey basic knowledge and basic rules for starting work. While the subject of coaching is the "trainee," the subject of teaching is the "supervisor/senior employee. Teaching is intended to provide necessary information in a one-way manner and does not place emphasis on mutual communication. Stretch Assignment Stretch assignment is a training method in which trainees are assigned tasks that are more difficult than their current abilities, with the aim of acquiring skills that they have never had before. By placing the trainee in a challenging environment, rapid growth is encouraged. The assignment requires a good understanding of the subject because it is necessary to set tasks that can be achieved through hard work, rather than assigning tasks that are unnecessarily difficult. This program is used with younger employees and is also used to develop a list of future executive candidates. Key Points for Smooth Implementation of Human Resource Development The following are points for those who are considering or reviewing new human resource development measures to ensure smooth implementation of training. Since it is extremely important to know how to set up an internal system, please refer to this section if you are involved in human resource development. Allow time for human resource development In order to promote human resource development smoothly, you must focus on creating an environment that secures time for training. Many HR managers, senior employees, and supervisors have a variety of tasks to perform alongside their training. In some cases, it may be difficult to parallel normal work duties, so it will be necessary to build a system that allows for adjustment of workloads and other measures to ensure that human resource development can be handled as well. Enhance the skills of personnel in charge of human resource development Improving the skills of those who are actually involved in human resource development is also an essential point in creating an environment for human resource development. Without an understanding of the appropriate training methods, the people to be trained will not be nurtured, so it will be necessary to acquire the appropriate skills and knowledge as a leader. Therefore, training and development for supervisors and personnel in charge must also be undertaken in a planned manner. Training for those in charge and rope training should be conducted to improve quality and equip them with the skills for teaching. Establish an evaluation system for human resource development. To facilitate human resource development, it is important to establish an evaluation system for personnel in charge. Unlike sales, where sales figures are directly generated, or marketing, where overall strategies are assembled, human resource development tends not to be evaluated by numbers. However, work related to human resources is an important task that can be said to be the foundation of a company. However, it is also a job that is very difficult to evaluate because results are not immediately apparent. It is important to create a clear evaluation system because it may lead to a decrease in motivation if the personnel manager feels that he or she is not getting an appropriate evaluation based on the burden. Procedures for advancing human resource development The following is an explanation of the procedures for promoting human resource development. Blindly passing on skills and knowledge without a clear objective will not develop human resources. Let's follow the appropriate flow and proceed effectively. If you are unsure of how to proceed with human resource development, please refer to this section. Analysis of Current Situation and Identification of Issues Before proceeding with human resource development, it is important to analyze the current situation and identify issues. It is important to properly understand the current productivity and efficiency of the personnel to be trained. To this end, it is necessary to conduct interviews with supervisors and department personnel to identify the issues facing the target employees. Clarify the skills and character required of the target person. After completing the analysis of the current situation and understanding of the issues, it is time to solidify the specific skills and personality profile required of the target persons to be trained. To this end, it is effective to create a skill map. A skill map is a list of the skills required for the career of each trainee, organized in a step-by-step manner, so that goals such as "acquire these skills in XX years" can be clearly defined. By clarifying not only practical skills, but also human qualities and other aspects of the person's life, it will be easier to determine what needs to be done in the next 5 to 10 years to achieve these goals. Select the appropriate training method for the target person Once the skills and personality profile of the person to be trained have been established, select the most appropriate training method from among various methods such as job rotation, mentoring, and target management systems. In doing so, it is also important to measure the on-site burden and costs associated with the training, and then distribute the burden across the entire organization so that no specific department is burdened. It is also necessary to regularly measure the effectiveness of human resource development to determine whether or not it is progressing according to the plan. It is important to check whether skills are actually being acquired and whether they are developing into the human resources required by the company, and to correct course if there are any delays. Supporting Human Resource Development through e-Learning Every company has the desire to strengthen its foundation by focusing on internal human resource development and to increase its market competitiveness over the medium to long term. We will select the appropriate training method according to the actual situation of your company. If you are considering an e-learning training plan, please consider our "learningBOX". We have all the functions necessary for e-learning, from content management to learner management, so please contact us first with a request for information.