DIMENSiON June 2019 | Learning

TCS iON Digital Learning

Theory concept and practical knowledge go hand in hand

Feature: Hands-On programming activity in Digital Learning courses.

Description: Introducing a new type of activity as Hands-on Programming Interface. This activity helps the faculty to assess the learners in their technical programming skills as a part of the course and provides score and grading based on it. With this activity, learners can also practice coding and equip themselves technically along with theoretical content of courses.

To configure Hands-on Activity in organisation, the organisation admin must configure the External Vendors for Hands-On in Preferences screen. Now, add Hands-on as a component while Course creation.

You can create Hands-on Activity once the Hands-on component is added in the Course.

The options include:

a) Creating Hands-on Activity with Eclipse Che IDE (No configuration required for anything).

b) Creating Hands-on Activity with configured External Vendor selection.

In case of either selection, the participants can view the Activity on Course Launch. The selected Hands-on Mode (either Hackerrank/Katacoda/Eclipse Che) displays against the Activity name.

•Key benefits: Learn theoretical concepts along with practical knowledge.

Course and community creation demarcated for user clarit

Feature: Upload supported documents for admin action to create Community or Course

Description: Now, when you create a Community or Course, it requires the invitation of two administrators. In case, if it is not a Force Invite option then, the invitation request must be accepted by the Admin to activate the Community or Course.

Additionally, the invited moderator of a Course/Community can upload the supporting documents in My Actions screen for the Administrator to review and accept the invitation to administer the Course or Community.

In Moderator View, you can View and Remove the uploaded file.

In Administrator View, the admin can view an eye icon to review uploaded documents, based on which the invitation is accepted and rejected.

Key Benefits: Objective behind Course or Community creation gets clear to the administrator.

Highlights of the month –

Introducing Post display on timeline with Admin approval

• Feature: Configuration to display post on timeline with admin’s approval.

• Description: Now, you can display Enablers on timeline with admin’s approval, in iDL. With this feature, once you create a post, it displays with a tag Pending for Action. Once the admin approves the Post, it displays to others on timeline. The Post does not display to others until the admin declines or does not take any action on it.

You can view the options related to the Post such as Vote up, Vote down, Comment, Favourite, Share with/Copy link and so on once the admin approves the Post.

The admin can view the community Posts along with the buttons to approve or decline the post, on timeline.

Admin can also filter out all post, which are pending for action on the timeline using the icon provided.

• Key benefits: Admin can filter out any offensive or objectionable post before they appear on timeline.

Highlights of the month

Introducing upload supported documents for admin action to create Community or Course

• Feature: Upload supported documents for admin action to create Community or Course

• Description: Now, when you create a Community or Course, it requires the invitation of two administrators. In case, if it is not a Force Invite option then, the invitation request must be accepted by the Admin to activate the Community or Course.

Additionally, the invited moderator of a Course/Community can upload the supporting documents in My Actions screen for the Administrator to review and accept the invitation to administer the Course or Community.

In Moderator View, you can View and Remove the uploaded file.

In Administrator View, the admin can view an eye icon to review uploaded documents, based on which the invitation is accepted and rejected.

Key Benefits: Objective behind Course or Community creation gets clear to the administrator.

Introducing Face Verification and System Authentication for course Access

• Feature: Face Verification and System Authentication in courses for participant access.

• Description: Now, the course admin can configure Face Verification & System Authentication to access the TCS iON iDL courses. Course Admin can enable this feature.

Here, the course Admin can select the required participant data for Registration and verify the data captured during Registration, at the time of authentication.

Perform authentication in two ways:

1. Course Admin can authenticate by providing the access code to launch the course. You must enter the access code after clicking Launch to launch the course.
2. You can authenticate to yourself by capturing your photo through the webcam-enabled system, at the Course Launch, which once verified allows you to access the Course.

In case, if the authentication fails, then the course admin has the option to Generate Access Code forcefully for the user.

• Key Benefit: Admin can authorise the Course content access using this feature.

Introducing new ODRs for logs of Course or Activity launch

• Feature: Two new ODR added in Report and Communication solution

• Description: Now, you can find Community or Course launch logs details and Course or Activity Launch Stats using two newly added ODRs in Report and Communication solution of Webtop.

Following are the two new ODRs:

• Community/Course Launch Logs ODR: The Course Launch details of a user are available in this ODR with details like System IP, browser used, device used for Course launch and launch date.
• Course/Activity Launch Stats (Daily) ODR: You can track the launch count details of a Course or Community through this ODR. These details include Launch date, activity, entity type, entity title and launch count.

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DIMENSiON May 2019 | Learning

TCS iON Digital Learning

Enablers can create short URLs for easy sharing

• Feature: Introducing short URL feature for enablers
• Description: Now, you can create short URL for enablers, in iDL. Provisioning for URL shortening is required at back-end after contract is established with the organisation. Post provisioning, the short URL configuration is visible to all users in Enabler Creation screen. Once you select this configuration, the permalink of that enabler is created as short URL. Short URL creation of each enabler is cost effective and depends on the purchase package as per the contract.

• Key benefits: Compact and easy to share the Enabler URL.

Faster Performance Achieved by Disabling Notifications Panel

• Feature: Configuration for notifications icon display in top panel

• Description: Earlier, the notification icon was visible to all the users of organization and hence the real time fetching of all notifications was making solution performance slower. Now, a configuration introduced for the organisation admin enables the admin to set the configuration to show/hide the notifications icon display in top panel. You can always access these notifications in mail inbox. By default, this configuration is set as No and the notifications icon does not appear in top panel until the organisation admin enables it.

• Key benefits: Enhances the performance of Solution.

Playback Speed Control Enabled on Both HTML and JW players

• Feature: Adjust the playback speed in video player
• Description: Earlier, you could not change the video playing speed. With this feature, you can control the video running speed in both video player: HTML Player and JW player.
• Key benefits: Adjustable Video playback speed.

DIMENSiON April 2019 | Learning

TCS iON Digital Learning

Direct social media sharing of TCS iON Digital Learning posts is now enabled

• Feature: Introducing enablers sharing with Social media

• Description: Now, you can share the iDL posts with social media. To enable this functionality, you must configure the share level of the post to “Open to All”.

You can share the posts with following platforms: Twitter, Facebook, Google Bookmarks and LinkedIn.

You can also copy the social link to clipboard and use the same on other platforms to display the iDL posts.

After sharing, the blogpost content displays the content and the image (if present) in the description while for other enablers, only title displays in the social media platform along with a message to login to view the complete post.

• Key benefits: Share TCS iON Digital Learning Post with social media.

Presenting TinCan for secure and reliable Data

• Feature: Introducing TinCan in courses

• Description: Earlier, only SCORM was supported in course. Now, A new feature is introduced which allows you to upload the TinCan package as content.

The TinCan content works like a SCORM which is secure by default and has richer data.

TinCan is an open source API which adds some needed extra functionality to SCORM and lifts many restrictions of the older specifications. All the options of content creation in iDL are similar to SCORM package content.

• Key benefits:
• TinCan provides simplicity, extra security measures, and the ability to run the courses.
• Supports better for offline and mobile learning with more detailed reports, when used outside the LMS.

Cloud Computing- Data On Your Fingertips

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Computing Power To Stay One Step Ahead

“Sharing is Caring”- and cloud computing is the perfect example of this. When it comes to the IT world, the most common topic of discussion in recent times is cloud computing. Cloud computing has created a wave of progress like no other.

What is Cloud Computing?

In simple terms, cloud computing refers to massive data storage and distribution without a single user intervention. It can also be described as online data centres which are made available to multiple users to store and access data on demand.

The largest cloud in the public domain is Amazon AWS which was launched in 2006. The humongous system provides companies, individuals and even governments a space on their cloud to manage and run operations.

Software professionals are looking to make the most of this technology because as per market trends and the world becoming a smaller place, cloud computing seems to be most coveted profession of the future.

Advantages of Considering a Career in Cloud Computing

Given the growing popularity of the field, cloud computing is fast becoming a profession to reckon with. Some of the reasons for you to consider cloud computing as a serious career option are:

• Demand for computing professionals is on the rise

Corporates are looking for professionals who have mastered this new technology to further advance their company goals. Organizations nowadays need strong cloud support to ensure the smooth functioning of their hardware and software. A cloud computing certification bolsters your resume and proves to the company that you’re the right candidate for them. It is a technology that is here to stay, so a certification will give you an edge over others.

• Computing professional enjoy a handsome pay

Since this is a relatively new technology, professionals in the market are emerging. This raises the demand for certified cloud computing professionals and increases your bargaining power as well. It also gives you the chance to choose from a list of favourite companies. Given that it is still a niche field professionals with a valid certification are handsomely recompensed.

• Job Security

Cloud computing aims to maintain and sustain massive amounts of data. A certification proves your credibility with your employer and helps you cement your position in the organization. Another reason for this to be a secure field is that it is not affected by market conditions. Cloud computing is independent of volatility and serves as a long term and fruitful profession.

Cloud computing has transformed the way businesses operate. From multi nationals to start ups all employ some form of cloud computing to further their business. If you’re looking for a career that will keep you in demand and allow the freedom of choice, then this is the way to go.

Before you decide to take the plunge, consider all options to enhance your resume so that prospective employees can bank on your expertise. One such certification that can give you the much needed impetus is TCS iON ProCert – Cloud Computing.

This certification helps your gauge your proficiency and provides inputs to improve your skill set. An added bonus is that it gives you the chance to connect with global corporates who are on the lookout to hire certified professionals. Opt for a recognized Cloud Computing certification today and watch your career soar!

Visit http://bit.ly/Cloud_Applications for more details.

Fresher Skills Meet Corporate Expectations

Understanding the requirements of the New Age Employer

A degree is a stepping stone to bigger and better opportunities. However, experienced professionals will tell you that, while a degree opens up various doors, the only way to seal the deal is to develop some essential soft skills to enhance your profile.

Corporates are always on the lookout for well-rounded and informed candidates who can push their brand in the right direction. Here are some basic skills that one needs to hone before applying for that dream job.

• Communication Skills

Perhaps one of the most essential tools, communication and appropriate expression of thought can make all the difference. Employers expect prospective candidates to be articulate and express their thoughts with clarity and precision. Apart from the actual interview, mailing skills also play an important part in gauging professionality.

• Learning Aptitude

Adaptability is the key to steady growth. Even though the fundamentals of a job might not change, the processes, systems and products might be upgraded over time. An employee who can shed outdated methods and adapt to new processes effectively is more likely to be considered for bigger opportunities.

• Out of the Box Thinking

Innovation drives a business. The new ideas you bring to the table define you as a follower or a leader. Check the company website, social media feeds, and news articles about the company which will enable you to give relevant and creative answers during the interview. Hiring managers are always inclined towards candidates who can bring fresh ideas to their organization.

• Domain Knowledge

It goes without saying that domain proficiency is one of the basic qualifiers for a candidate to be considered for a job. For an extra edge, read up on the current trends in your domain and update your understanding of the subject. This shows that you’re good with research and always looking to improve yourself.

• Teamwork / Collaboration

“Teamwork makes the dream work.” Unless employees cooperate and work together in harmony, the company cannot function smoothly. Corporations are made up of various teams who work towards a common goal. Being a team player with a zest for collaborative insights is considered a strong strength by prospective employers.

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Are you up for a challenge? Will you quit at the first sign of trouble? Interviewers tend to throw hypothetical challenges to gauge your problem solving skills. Candidates who can come up with professional solutions exude more confidence and show character which puts them in the running for the position.

• Attention to detail

Small gestures go a long way. Did you reply to the hiring manager’s mail confirming the time of the interview? Were you on time for the interview with the documents you were asked to produce? Candidates who show earnestness and a natural flair for minute details are a dream to work with. This puts employers at ease because they know you’re reliable, punctual and a stickler for rules.

• Leadership Quality

A good manager is someone who pushes for team growth and progress. Did you lead an event or fest in college? Be sure to mention this fact in your resume and highlight it in the interview especially if the event you headed was a success. Employers look for candidates who show a natural potential to be a future manager.

• Digital Knowhow

Most jobs will now list a set of computer applications or programs they expect the candidate to be aware of. Even if the use of the application does not directly affect your day to day working, it is advisable to be adept with basic skills. Apart from boosting your resume, you could also make suggestions to speed up current processes with the help of relevant computer applications.

• Professionalism / Work Ethic

A critical commandment for an employer is choosing a candidate who displays ethical judgement and a strong sense of integrity. Long term associations can be formed only if you build trust with your managers. Your reaction to difficult situations and owning up to your errors goes to show that you are sincere and just.

Now that you know the requirements, how do you gain an impetus to crack that job interview? TCS iON Common Corporate Qualifier Test (CCQT) is one such distinctive program which partners with prominent corporates to conduct assessments based on a variety of parameters. Successful candidates gain an advantage and stand the chance to be hired by the partner corporate. Get ready to win the race and land your dream job.

For more details visit http://bit.ly/LLL_TCSiON_Qualifier_CCQT

Yoyogi Seminar selects TCS iON PAPER to transform Spoken English Tests in Japan

The University Admission Common Test, which will replace the current National Center Test in 2021, is expected to include spoken English

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) announced that Sapix Yozemi Group (Yoyogi Seminar), a Japanese cram school chain, has selected TCS iON PAPER to transform the conduct of its spoken English tests and evaluation of candidate responses.

Spoken English tests are increasingly becoming part of entrance exams for many universities and high schools in Japan. The University Admission Common Test, which will replace the current National Center Test in 2021, is expected to include spoken English.

To prepare students ahead of time, Yoyogi Seminar has included speaking assessments in all its future tests.

The TCS iON PAPER device will equip the preparatory school operator with the capabilities necessary to conduct these tests, including the test environment, test data delivery, and scoring environment. In addition, it will enable location-independent assessment with the help of experienced English teachers based in India. TCS will on-board qualified and certified English teachers, who will be rigorously trained on evaluating the audio responses, in a proctored environment.

TCS iON PAPER can securely distribute question papers as well as capture students’ audio responses without the need for internet connections in classrooms. This will enable Yoyogi Seminar to conduct country-wide English language tests at centers that do not have access to the internet. The scoring of the audio responses will be powered by TCS iON Digital Marking platform to deliver test results at speed.

Toshiro Takamiya, Co-chairman, Sapix Yozemi Group, said, “We have been making efforts to support our students to acquire four key capabilities – listening, speaking, reading, and writing – in English proficiency as is required in this globalized society. By employing TCS’ services, we hope that we will be able to introduce better services to our students nationwide.”

Venguswamy Ramaswamy, Global Head, TCS iON, said, “TCS iON is focused on continuous innovations and the integration of digital technology to drive transfomational change in all aspects of the education ecosystem. We are very happy that Yoyogi Seminar has been an early adopter of TCS iON PAPER along with our path breaking location-independent marking platform – TCS iON Digital Marking. This will drive exponential value to the domain of education across stakeholders.”

“We are very honored to partner with Yoyogi Seminar, a leading Japnaese college preparatory school that has been devoted to enhancing educational services for test takers for over half a century. TCS, leveraging its global expertise on digital to the fullest, strives to be the partner of choice for education customers in their digital transformation journeys at a time of major industry-wide change, and contribute to the enhancement of educational services in the country,” said Masayuki Nakayama, Senior Vice President, TCS Japan.

TCS iON’s Education platforms have been adopted by institutions worldwide, to benefit from the enhanced security, scale, reduced logistical costs, and shorter processing time. The TCS iON PAPER device was launched in 2018 to introduce digital technology in place of traditional paper-based tests.

For more information visit us at http://www.tcsion.com

Source – 1) http://www.businessworld.in/article/Sapix-Yozemi-Selects-TCS-iON-Paper-To-Conduct-Spoken-English-Tests-In-Japan/28-02-2019-167681/ 2) http://indiaeducationdiary.in/yoyogi-seminar-selects-tcs-ion-paper-transform-spoken-english-tests-japan/

Learn Best Methods for your Exam Preparations

Benjamin Franklin said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail”. This holds true in all aspects of life, particularly with competitive exams in India. If you are an engineering or medical aspirant preparing for an entrance exam, you know exactly what it takes.

You work hard, make many sacrifices, burn the mid night oil, and continuously step-up your game each day – to get those few extra marks that can make all the difference. Well, there is good news. We are here to spill a little-known secret. Beyond the obvious dos, don’ts, and recommendations, we bring to you a few simple tips and tools that can provide you the extra edge.

• The Ivan Pavlov Way

This is one of the most popular techniques around the world. Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov’s conditioning experiment proves that we can master any task by repeating it consistently. Some factors that have to remain constant are time, place, and subject.

So, train yourself to read the same text, in the same place, at the same time every day, and you will notice that your brain absorbs information much faster and organically.

• Match School and Home Schedules

This is one of the most effective methods out there. Align your home-study schedule to coincide with your classes. Studying a topic taught by the trainer, immediately after returning from class, gives you the advantage of higher retention.

Do this. Just before a test, instead of reading long-form text, look for visuals like graphs, diagrams, or charts – these tend to leave a mental impression and are easier to recall.

Another important thing to do is never set a time table with similar subjects one after the other. Variety ensures longer attentions spans.

• Short and Effective Study Sessions

There are distractions all around. The mind can seldom remain steady. Instead of fighting the urge, give-in at times. Go for a combination of small study sessions peppered with breaks. You will be able to cover a lot more. This is because the brain thrives well under adequate pressure.

It is also believed that when we take small breaks between sessions, the brain absorbs information without much effort. Hence, try spending not more than 20-25 minutes when cramming chronological events, formulas, equations, names, events, etc.

• Avoid Studying when Sleep Strikes

When the mind relaxes, the body rejuvenates. A tired body and brain aren’t conducive to intensive study. This varies from person to person. Some students find it easier to start early, while others find late nights less distracting and more productive. Whatever suits you, choose a time and stick to it.

When you find yourself getting drowsy, move around, drink some water, or better still take a power nap. ‘Inemuri’ or ‘sleeping while being present’ is the Japanese term for catching up on sleep while in public places. Experts suggest that such power naps can result in higher productivity.

• Smart Working Practices

More than the amount of time you spend in front of your books, evaluate the quality of the hours spent studying. ‘Focus’ is the key to getting more work done. Choose a time to study when there are minimal distractions. Consider going to a library or a study hall. It is advisable to start the day with challenging subjects when you are most alert. Keep the easier ones for the end of your study session.

• Practice Tests from Previous Years

Practice tests tell you where you stand. While most students know this, they rarely come around to doing it. Mostly because they do not have a ready and systematic access to the question paper sets from the previous years.

If you are an engineering or medical aspirant, try to get access to a comprehensive set of practice exams. Such tests help develop familiarity with competitive exam patterns. Attempt such tests in a proctored environment. Set a timer and take the process seriously.

Avoid getting distracted and keep all your devices away from you. This way you will be able to time yourself and understand the areas you need to concentrate on. When you have taken enough tests, you will be able to identify commonly made mistakes, know your strengths, and list down areas of improvement.

• Leverage the Power of Data to Gain Analytics and Insights

We live in the age of data. Today, there are enough and more analytical tools that can process your test performances to give you deep insights and recommendations that can help you perform up to your true potential.

Data analytics help in identifying one’s strengths and areas for improvement. In fact, platforms like as TCS iON’s Prep4Exam act as virtual advisors for students appearing for competitive engineering or medical exams. Students of Grade 11 and Grade 12 from Mathematics and Science streams can leverage this platform to get deep rooted insights about their performance – subject-wise, concept-wise, and difficulty-wise. They can also get detailed error analysis for incorrect questions, and answer keys along with explanations of the concept.

Getting ahead in competitive exams requires more than the traditional dose of hard work and perseverance. With just a few marks differentiating the winners, getting methodical with your exam preparation is indeed the need of the hour!