ABSTRACT
Vital Signs presents a classic example of straightforward, effective, computer-based training. One of the ways it differs from the two previous case studies is that its goal is to teach a specific skill to a clearly defined audience. Vital Signs was developed in traditional computer-based training (CBT) tutorial style: present the topic, test, and retest. This is a highly effective and common approach in CBT. The Vital Signs training program was aimed toward Harvard Community Health Plan medical assistants, who help the physicians and other clinicians by greeting patients, bringing them into the examining room, taking vital signs, and generally assisting with any other work that the physician needs to have done. The content involved teaching a specific process: taking vital signs. This process is an essential part of health care and the first thing the physician wants to know about the patient.
