E-Learning in the Workforce:

A Case for Student Support

An increasing number of companies are adopting e-learning practices because these methods promise lower costs of distribution, any time-anywhere access, and just-in time training that is responsive to a company’s bottom line.  However, in the rush to take advantage of what e-learning has to offer, companies are running into significant barriers.  Some  barriers include: high drop out rates, student isolation, technical issues, lack of internal support, and poorly designed courses.  Managing e-learning and supporting learners are essential factors in today’s training procedures. This paper provides an overview of e-learning strategies, summarizes the benefits, and addresses the need for supporting learners in the workplace.   It covers topics on how to manage effective e-learning practices, how to motivate corporate learners, and what management can do to be more responsive to learners’ needs.  The recommendations presented in this paper are based on the contributions from various scholars in the field, a report analyzed by the Commission on Technology and Adult Learning (2002) and research provided by the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD) Handbook (2002).

An Analysis of Six External Factors Influencing the Field of Distance Training

As higher education institutions continue to pursue distance education and e-learning initiatives, it’s important for managers in the field to identify, and attend to, those issues in the external environment that may have an impact on the overall mission of their institution.  This paper outlines six current trends imposed on the field of distance training and focuses on the most significant factors influencing managerial decision related to workforce development training.   The issues outlined are ranked in order of priority---from the most critical to the least critical.

Multi-Media Proposal

This proposal outlines a new and exciting workforce development initiative, developed through a nationwide partnership with ACT Inc., that blends traditional, contact-based workforce development courses with pre-developed online training courses (e-learning). Skills training will be offered in various industry sectors but primarily in industrial technology.  As a higher education institution known for its adaptability and willingness to provide customized training and workforce preparation influenced by industry and federal policy, it is important for us to identify the advantages and disadvantages of a new multimedia learning environment. This proposal identifies that process and explains the resources needed beforehand to adequately implement, deliver and support high-quality and cost-effective training programs. Strategic planning and rationale are supported by research in the field of distance training.