Computer-Based Training (CBT)
What is CBT (Computer-Based Training)
As the name indicates, it's a computer-based training. It means using a computer, giving training to personnel on equipment, software, systems, or machinery, etc.
Computer-Based Training (CBT) refers to any type of educational or instructional program delivered via a computer. It often utilises multimedia elements such as text, graphics, audio, and video to facilitate learning. CBT can be self-paced, allowing learners to progress at their own speed, or it may be structured with specific timelines and assessments.
Technical Specifications of any standard CBT / SCOPE of CBT
What is expected from CBT?
The purpose of CBT is to give as much knowledge as possible before the user touches the actual system. Theoretically user must have ample knowledge before handling or hands-on, i.e. Introduction about the system, Technical specification, Deployment, Assembly, disassembly, Operation, Maintenance and troubleshooting.
When the user attains excellent knowledge about the system theoretically, use can grasp the practicality of the system very easily. CBT gives a strong foundation to the user.
CBT will be used in training the theory to personnel or even as a self-learning tool. This is called blended learning.
The developed Computer-Based Training (CBT) will allow technical personnel to comprehend the description, operation, working principles, parts and parts locations, warnings and cautions, as well as maintenance procedures for systems, all from the classroom, eliminating the need for on-site visits to the actual machinery, assembly area.
The CBT will be developed as a single package consisting of 3 main components.
- Description & Operation (D&O) CBT
- Maintenance (MNT) CBT
- Symptoms Fault Correlation (SFC)
The Description & Operation (D&O) section of the CBT will include information on systems, working principles, the location of Parts/LRUs, electrical power supply and signal flow, indications, and warnings, providing a comprehensive understanding of the systems.
This section will also feature question banks for quizzes (organised by system/module) to help trainees review and assess their learning.
The Maintenance section of the CBT will be developed based on the procedures outlined in (1) the System Maintenance Manual - Scheduled, (2) the Maintenance Manual - Unscheduled, (3) the Engine Maintenance Manual, (4) Calendar-Based Inspection/Servicing, (5) Hourly-Based Inspection/Servicing, (6) Out-of-Phase Inspection/Servicing, and (7) relevant portions of Vendor Manuals.
Symptoms Fault Correlation (SFC) : This will serve as a training aid for providing theoretical instruction to technical personnel on troubleshooting procedures for systems.
Having said this, there is no rule that every CBT must have these sections. Based on the nature of the system, modules and submodules may vary.
General Characteristics of Computer-Based Tutor/Training
The CBT will be user-friendly, browser-independent, and compatible with the latest and future versions of all current browsers for the relevant operating systems.
CBT will include text, labelled images and line diagrams, video clips, 2D and 3D animations, 360-degree views of LRUs/systems, cross-sectional views, exploded views, and high-quality computer-generated audio as necessary. This will ensure that the training package is both self-explanatory and interactive.
High-quality voiceovers in both male and female voices (in English) will be provided for the text, videos, and 2D and 3D animations.
Text content, along with synchronised 2D and 3D animations, video clips, and images, will be presented side by side in the CBT slides for easy reference.
Graphic User Interface Features of E-Content Module / CBT/Computer-Based Training module/ Tutor
Slider | Slider Option should be user-friendly to the user, where the user can drag the slider forward/backwards of the screen animation & audio. |
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Tree Menu structure at Index | The Index should be enabled to extend to more than one/ further level for subtopics in a user-friendly manner |
Audio Volume | The Audio Volume button controls the level of volume for the user to increase or decrease according to the user's choice |
Navigation Buttons | Navigation buttons like Next, Previous and Pause, Screen Number/Total Number of Screens should be available in a user-friendly manner. |
Handouts | PDFs or other documents related to the topic should be downloadable. |
Glossary | Glossary terms related to the topic is be seen. |
Delivery of CBT :
CBT is usually delivered on DVDs or a USB drive. CBT has password protection to access the contents.
Till 2016, CBTs used to be delivered in Exe format. Windows can play EXE very well. Due to the advancement of technology and the availability of mobile devices, CBTs were also needed to play on Mobile devices. EXE files can not be played on mobile; hence, the HTML5 format was introduced.
This has become web-based Tutor or E-learning, e-content development, etc.
Corporates and other industries call this e-learning, but the Defence calls this Computer-Based Tutor only.
The reason may be, mobile devices aren’t allowed to be used, hence no mobile learning is expected. It’s all Computers.
Still, in a few places, Training and training material is used through Mobiles, Tablets etc, hence, it's always advisable to develop CBT in HTML5 only.
HTML5 makes sure that the course fits any type and size of screen, device. It is called responsive courses.
Responsive design is a course development strategy that enables a CBT to adapt to various screen sizes and devices, providing a consistent and optimal user experience across all platforms.
This approach utilises flexible grids, layouts, images, and CSS media queries to modify the CBT/course appearance and functionality based on the user's device, whether it’s a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.
Key features of CBT include:
- Interactivity: Many CBT programs incorporate interactive elements, such as quizzes and simulations, to engage learners actively.
- Flexibility: Learners can access materials anytime and anywhere, making it easier to fit training into busy schedules.
- Consistency: CBT ensures uniformity in training delivery, meaning all learners receive the same quality of instruction.
- Tracking and Assessment: Many CBT solutions include tracking systems that monitor progress and assess comprehension through tests and quizzes.
CBT is commonly used in various settings, including corporate training, educational institutions, and skills development programs, making it an effective tool for both individual and organisational learning.
Overall, CBT provides a flexible, self-directed, and often more accessible alternative to traditional training methods, making it suitable for a wide range of learning environments and audiences.
What is Training?
The organised approach to teaching or learning skills, knowledge, abilities, and even attitudes for a specific purpose or activity is often goal-oriented. Its primary aim is to enhance an individual's capability, capacity, productivity, and performance.
If this training is given using a Computer, it's called Computer-Based Training.
After mobile resolution and the availability of the internet, the term e-learning has emerged.
What is E-learning
E-learning means learning something using an electronic device. The word E-content means any content in the form of electronic. It means any digital content.
It is also called Multimedia Tutor. Multimedia means, combination of various media like text, images, graphics, animations, Voice, etc.
Using all these media, if something is delivered for training, that is called Multimedia Training, Computer-Based Training, E-learning or e-content development.
All words can be used interchangeably.
a computer-based tutor can serve as a supplement to traditional teaching methods or stand alone as the primary mode of instruction. It is often used in various fields, including language learning, technical skills training, and professional development.
Overall, a computer-based tutor aims to create an effective and engaging learning environment that adapts to the learner's needs.
CBT for Defence
Computer-Based Training (CBT) plays a crucial role in defense by enhancing training effectiveness, improving operational readiness, and facilitating continuous learning among military personnel.
The ARMY, Navy and Air Force use a lot of machinery, systems, hence personnel constantly need training. Training will be physical or hands-on.
Physical and hands-on training is an effective way of training, but it is costly and requires the physical presence of subject matter experts.
The Army, Navy and Air Force have multiple training centres to train the personnel, hence an expert subject matter expert of OEM can not be available at all the places.
Hence, Subject matter experts from OEM and CBT experts jointly develop a training package, which is called the Computer-based Tutor. This training package is distributed to all the training centres
CBT has a vital role in modernising military training by making it more efficient, effective, and adaptable. By harnessing the power of technology, defence organisations can ensure that their personnel are well-prepared for the complexities of contemporary warfare and rapidly changing operational environments. This ultimately contributes to enhanced national security and mission success.
Technical Literature (TL) and Training Aggregates (TA) are the most common words you find in RFQ/RFE/SOW if you are OEM or service provider to Defence or Defence labs.
These TAs and TLs are mandatory deliverables along with the system/subsystem.
Following are deliverables under each. Deliverables may change system to system based on end-user training requirements.
Technical Literature (TL) (Production Documents and User Documents) |
Training Aggregates (TA) |
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|
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CBT, Video film, TWM, Slides, IETM, etc are delivered in DVD along with DVD case with proper packing. Charts Blowups, sunboards are printed on the suitable media in 3 X4 feet sized print. Some users may use bi-lingual in CBT Duration of CBT is based on the complexity and number of sub systems etc. We have done CBTs for 5 hours and also 50 Hours based on the system. |
Services
TRAINNING AGGREGATE
Specifications mentioned by DoD for Charts , Blowups and Training Brocurers
SI No |
Description |
Specification |
QTY |
1 | Computer based Training (CBT) |
||
---|---|---|---|
a) | CBT Operator Module – English |
On interactive multimedia to include :
|
3 Hours |
b) | CBT Maintenance Module - English |
3 Hour |
|
c) | CBT Operator Module -Hindi |
3 Hours |
|
d) | CBT Maintenance Module - Hindi |
3 Hour |
|
2 | Training Aids |
||
a) | Charts |
Size :4 x 3 feet |
14 sets |
b) | Blow-up Diagram |
size : 4 x 3 feet |
14 sets |
c) | Training brochures (Operator & Maintenance) |
A4, 90 GSM sun shine paper to be used for documentation. Documents binding to be done in 3 piece folder only. |
14 sets |
d) | Training Work Module |
Walk-around 3D model of the system (internal and external) with brief description of major sub-systems. |
1 Job |
e) |
Video Film (Operator & Maintenance) |
Training films on computer media, including 3-D virtual reality modules in English. Login & password required. |
1 Hour |
Computer-based Training Computer-based Tutor (CBT) or Computer-based Instructions (CBI) are synonymous words used for multimedia tutors.
CBT word was used till 2010. After that, it's called eLearning or content development, etc. This CBT word is basically used for the defense domain in India.
CBT is a computer-based training developed using various multimedia tools to create graphics, image editing, animation 2d/3d, and videos, etc.
As per the deliverable, every vehicle, system subsystem, or any physical component which is being delivered to Defence needs Training Aids.

A computer-based Tutor is one of the training aid delivered along with the actual physical component.
This tutor covers system overview, introduction, subsystems or various parts/components used, assembly, disassembly, operation, troubleshooting, maintenance, replacing of LRUs if any, etc.
The topics may be increased or decreased based on the system.
Its completely decided by OEM, about the depth to be covered and the length to be covered. Generally, each CBT for a small system has 4 hours of duration and bigger systems will have 100 hours or more. (As per our 20 years experience)
Few OEMs do not want to cover a few topics as a security measure or for intellectual value.
Documentaries / Video-Based Learning
- The documentary is a medium used by Government Departments, NGOs, Private Organizations, Broadcasters, and even Individuals to convey their message effectively to a large group audience.
- The direction and composition of a documentary make all the difference to the successful communication of its content/concept. Quality production and skilled direction can enhance the impact of any documentary, be it short or feature-length.
- C&P is a professional company providing end–to–end solutions for your documentary project from the initial stages of the idea to the final product with just a minimum involvement on your part.
- We have expert content writers, art directors, camera crew, directors, and other technicians who can produce documentaries creatively and innovatively by using high-end types of equipment and beta cameras.
What is Computer-Based Training (CBT)?
Computer-based training, also called Interactive Multimedia Instruction, refers to training delivered via a computer or digital device using custom-developed software. It provides balanced information presentation and supports customized learning. The strength lies in integrating CBTs with tests, voiceovers, animations, and simulations.
Core Elements:
Introduction, usage, Technical Specifications, Assembly, Disassembly, Deployment, Installation, Troubleshooting and Maintenance Module Development consist of basic maintenance modules to learn daily maintenance, preventive, and repair operations through animations, pictures, and voiceovers.
Training Brochures :
We also create training brochures to accompany Computer Based Training content as one of our services. Brochures give trainees quick reference materials and highlight main learning points.
Frequently Asked Question
CBT is a mandatory deliverable for any vehicle, system, subsystem, or physical component supplied to the defense industry in India. CBT is a user training tool covering system overview, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance process.
The process of development of the CBT generally includes the following steps:
- Pre-Project Analysis: Requirement analysis and proposal approval.
- Project Production: Covers pre-production planning, content creation, quality checks, and production of multimedia content.
- Post-Project Support: Feedback gathering and content enrichment dependent on user experience.
Before starting the CBT, the OEM has to submit a Course Content Identification Document (CCID) with the subjects, subtopics, and their respective duration and a Detailed Course Content Document (DCDD) for validation.
CBT is divided into three levels according to interactivity:
- Level 1: Limited interaction, passive learning (e.g., page-turners).
- Level 2: Some interaction with multimedia content (e.g., drag-and-drop exercises).
- Level 3: High-level interactivity through complex simulations, 3D modeling, and character animations.