There has been an unprecedented increase in the uptake of e-learning in vocational education and training (VET) over the last three years, a new national survey reveals.

Almost a third (29%) of VET activity now involves information and communication technology (ICT), compared to 17% in 2006 and 6-8% in 2005.

E-learning refers to the use of ICT in the delivery of education and training, such as using the internet, mobile or voice technologies, or online enrolment and assessment.

Conducted by the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework), the national training system's e-learning strategy, the E-learning Benchmarking Survey measures the use, impact and uptake of e-learning within VET.
Key findings for the 2007 survey were:

• 81% of VET students and 82% of employers thought e-learning generally improves students’ computer skills. 
• 70% of students and 68% of employers said that ‘all people in the workforce need good computer skills’. 
• 63% of students said they thought the e-learning in their course would, in the future, improve their employment outcomes.

As well as e-learning improving students' skills and employability, the survey found students and employers thought it provided flexible training:

• 82% of VET students and 80% of employers believe e-learning is a more flexible learning option. 
• Around 60% of VET students said that the e-learning components of their course gave them flexibility in where, when and how they did their study. 
• 44% of VET students said e-learning was a factor in selection of their training organisation and 73% of employers said they would try to influence their training provider to deliver more flexible training to their employees.

One student commented: "E-learning gives me the flexibility to do my studies in the workplace (lunchtime, after work) as well as at home. It has greatly improved my internet research skills and given me more confidence to use other types of technology (eg memory sticks) at home and at work."

It's the third year the Framework has run the survey, which captures the views of registered training organisations, teachers and trainers, students and employers.

Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) Deputy Secretary Jim Davidson, who is responsible for overseeing the management of the Framework, said the survey revealed a significant increase in the uptake of e-learning in VET. "This survey shows our annual investment of $15 million is making an impact. The Framework is providing the VET system with the essential e-learning infrastructure and expertise needed to meet the challenges of a modern economy and the training needs of Australian business and workers.

"There are increased expectations that training providers will be flexible and responsive to client needs. E-learning provides the opportunity for training providers to offer flexible learning options for employers and students."

Source:  Australian Flexible Learning Framework – RSS Feed 17/10/07