ALA

New research has debunked e-myths about mature aged workers and technology, the uptake of e-learning in registered training organisations (RTOs) and why employers are e-smitten with flexible learning. The national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework) has published two new reports with some unexpected findings, including:

• Assisting training organisations to get started in mainstream e-learning - 57% of RTOs already include e-learning in their education and training programs, with the growth set to continue as knowledge of e-learning potential spreads.

• The role of employers in encouraging e-learning and flexible training delivery - More than 80% of 400 Australian employers surveyed were encouraging their staff to undertake e-learning to expand skills and gain qualifications to help overcome the skills shortage.

 The Framework’s Benchmarking and Research Business Manager, Annie Fergusson, said the reports were a valuable insight for anyone interested in how e-learning can be successfully implemented within the vocational education and training (VET) system. “The reports highlight how RTOs are becoming more comfortable with e-learning, and why most employers are benefiting from e-learning from an industry perspective; and the reasons some aren’t,” she said. “Not only do the reports give an accurate idea of how e-learning is being utilised, but they also provide case studies of why e-learning may not be encouraged or supported, which will help to inform future VET programs.” To read the Assisting training organisations to get started in mainstream e-learning report or The role of employers in encouraging e-learning and flexible training delivery report visit: http://e-learningindicators.flexiblelearning.net.au/ For more information on Benchmarking visit: http://e-learningindicators.flexiblelearning.net.au/