Comparison of On-Line and Blended Learning for Training in UML

e-Learning, while offering many advantages over traditional classroom-based courses, has not fulfilled its aim as the ultimate solution to the training problem. Many organizations are now examining different blends of learning, taking the best aspects of both classroom-based and on-line training, to provide more effective learning opportunities to employees. Lifelong up-skilling is vital in the software engineering industry, where employees need the ability to adapt to new technologies and methods in order to remain competitive. The UML (Unified Modelling Language) is a relatively recently developed methodology used for developing object-oriented software. Because of this, many developers have had little or no formal training in UML. This has resulted in a low level of use in the software industry. Having identified the need for effective training in UML, we designed a study to estimate the effects that a blended learning setting would have on learners and the training effectiveness.