Workers are increasingly dealing with new technologies in the
workplace, requiring them to become more scientifically and technically literate.
They must be trained for the new types of jobs brought about by automation,
but current educational systems have not met this need. However, information
technology offers a variety of machine-mediated instructional forms that may
be used for workforce training and education. These are discussed in detail,
along with examples of application, including: 1. interactive videodiscs, 2.
satellite communication systems, 3. videotex and teletext services, 4. simulator
systems, and 5. intelligent computer-aided instruction (CAI) systems. Further
development of educational technologies for worker training will require the
coordinated efforts of government, universities, and industry. Weingartencomments
that, while educational technologies have been shown to be effective, they may
best be used outside of traditional educational institutions. Moreover, such
efforts cannot replace traditional education.