There are numerous definitions of e-learning.  Some focus on how the learning is accessed and some on the media used to create it. Some are straightforward and concise like that of the oxford English dictionary and some are detailed like Clark and Mayers example. My personal favourite tops the list but other than that they are in no particular order. 

e-learning is…..

“The use of information and computer technologies to create learning experiences. ”
William Horton

“…essentially the computer and network-enabled transfer of skills and knowledge…” 
Wikipedia

“…The delivery of a learning, training … Continue Reading

It’s easy to understand why online courses work for people that already use computers at their desks. Computers are familiar and right there in front of them. What about those who don’t work at a PC?  

We’ve found that staff in depots or on the shop floor actually respond really well to learning online. Many of them have computers at home and use them for fun and informal learning already so accessing e-learning at work instead of going on a course can be a novelty. The reverse is of course true for … Continue Reading

The Bribery Act became law on 1st July 2011 and prosecutions can be brought against companies if bribery is found to have taken place and they have not taken ‘adequate’ steps to prevent it.  Individuals can also be prosecuted and face up to 10 years in prison if they’re found guilty.  And it will be an expensive mistake too as fines are unlimited.

The act is not intended to stop corporate hospitality so you can still take that client out to dinner without fear of the police knocking your door … Continue Reading

It’s that time of the year again! Many organisations are carrying out their annual appraisals and performance development reviews at the moment. And of course the obligatory chasing up of some managers to encourage, remind and demand that they’re done – not necessarily in that order.

Appraisals are so important for motivation, performance management and staff development but we all know that they are ineffective and can even have a detrimental effect if done carelessly by managers who don’t ‘get’ their value. Make sure your managers … Continue Reading

When you realise (or are told) that you need some IT training then you’re already behind the curve and need to play catch up.  Many people just don’t think about online learning but this is an excellent option if you’re short of time and need to update your skills.  Online IT courses are effective, easy to use and you can learn fast. Here’s some reasons why:

1 No ice-breaker games and information on how to get out of the building if it’s on fire. And you already know … Continue Reading

Confession: this has been a fun post for me to write. I’ve been involved in e-learning sales and implementation in some capacity for around 13 years and many of the same objections to e-learning  come up time and again. My responses are mostly what I would like to say but am much too polite!  If I’ve spoken to you recently and you’ve proffered one of these comments, then I apologise but it’s not about you – really. They’ve all been … Continue Reading

Manufacturers need to work smart to stay ahead of their competition. They innovate and take advantage of technology to improve efficiency and reduce waste.  Their processes are geared to minimise downtime and ensure staff are productive for as much of the working day as possible as well as reducing their impact on the environment. Is your training department keeping up with the pace of change?

In many of the north east companies I’ve been talking to recently … Continue Reading

Do you need to put forward a business case to introduce e-learning to your organisation? Here’s a few articles that we think you’ll find helpful…

What is e-learning?
This article is a good overview of what e-learning is all about.

10 benefits of elearning
Everything from cost savings and getting staff up to speed on new processes fast to equal opportunities in learning and development

Low carbon Learning
Explores the environmental credentials of e-learning as compared to traditional classroom training

What is blended learning?
An overview of blended learning … Continue Reading

Are you using e-learning now in your organisation? If you’re wondering if you should be here’s ten reasons why online training should form part of your learning and development strategy.

1. Reduces Costs
This is at the top of the list because it’s usually the main reason that organisations turn to e-learning. Often they’ll just look at the direct course costs like travel, accommodation, trainer fees, and course materials. Don’t forget the indirect course costs though. Staff still have to be paid, (at overtime rates in some cases.) e-learning usually … Continue Reading

Adult Learners week is a great way to get people engaging in a wider range of learning opportunities. Last year  around 100, 000 people got involved. This year Adult Learners Week  is celebrating it’s 20th year so why not get involved? It’s from 14th – 20 th May and you’ll find lots of ideas on their website.

I’ve worked with many employers in the North East over the years who have used Adult Learners’ Week to good effect. It’s a great time to introduce e-learning … Continue Reading