E-learning becoming embedded, but more work needed on implementation

Citation

(2005), "E-learning becoming embedded, but more work needed on implementation", Education + Training, Vol. 47 No. 4/5. https://doi.org/10.1108/et.2005.00447dab.010

E-learning becoming embedded, but more work needed on implementation

E-learning is now accepted as an important feature of training delivery, but more practical work needs to be done on implementation if it is to be successful, according to a survey carried out by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and timed to coincide with the fifth anniversary of the term e-learning being adopted. Martyn Sloman, CIPD learning, training and development adviser, said: “Five years on and e-learning remains work in progress. Organisations need to address the implementation of e-learning to ensure they have support from line managers and to develop a structure that meets the needs of both the organisation and the employees”.

However, the survey suggests that e-learning has become increasingly embedded within the wider learning and development arena. Some organisations are taking positive steps to ensure e-learning works, with 57 per cent of respondents developing customised modules tailor-made for their organisation’s business needs, rather than relying on generic, off-the-shelf packages. Some 90 per cent of respondents believe e-learning demands a new attitude to learning on the part of the learners. Martyn Sloman continued: “E-learning is an important tool in the training world and our survey suggests that its usage is going to double over the next three years. However, trainers must work closely with learners to ensure that the e-learning tool is effective and meets the learners’ needs”.

Other key findings are:

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  More than 80 per cent of respondents believe e-learning is more effective when combined with more traditional forms of learning.

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  CD-ROMs remain the most popular method of delivery of e-learning, with 73 per cent of respondents using them.

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  A total of 52 per cent use generic modules of e-learning within their organisation.

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  A total of 58 per cent of respondents feel the current generation of e-learning products does not demonstrate what the future will look like.

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  A total of 69 per cent believe e-learning demands an entirely new skill set for people involved in training and development.