In the "Extending Classrooms to the Military Workplace" paper submitted last year, we discussed the benefits of distance learning over conventional training programs. We focused on hardware and introduced multimedia and a modular, building block architecture that supports distance learning and Computer Based Training (CBT) on one platform.

This year, we focus on implementation of a new system and we detail the software architecture. We performed a comparative analysis of several distance learning systems currently in operation and designed a new system incorporating the best features discovered during this investigation. This analysis identified a need for distance learning systems to use existing Department of Defense multimedia and networking technologies; provide capabilities for transmitting lessons to individual workstations; and provide features that allow one person to control the entire distance learning network.

This paper describes a generic framework for a distance learning network control system that allows one instructor to control the entire network operation and allows communication to receive sites over satellite, terrestrial, and Local Area Network (LAN) interfaces. The proposed control system supports two-way video, audio, and data transmissions between the broadcast and receive locations, and provides system monitoring capabilities from one central console. We discuss interoperability, open systems, and the functional requirements needed to control a distance learning classroom session. We describe basic software components of the distance learning control system: user interface, LAN control system, satellite control system, terrestrial control system, and receive site control system. We also define interface specifications and performance requirements, and define the relationship between components and subcomponents within the distance learning architecture. Finally, we give examples of how the implementation of the proposed control system can lead to reduced costs in developing, maintaining, and enhancing distance learning systems.

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P. Gercken