E-learning integral for trades training from Flex e-News, Australian Flexible Learning Framework

July 22nd, 2009 by swilson in Innovation, Resources, Toolbox

Queensland Training Ombudsman Peter Ruhanen has advocated the benefits of e-learning for the trades, and called for increased development of e-learning resources to keep pace with learner demand for flexible and engaging training.

Speaking at a recent education and training symposium, Mr Ruhanen said that he sees e-learning becoming integral to trades training, as many new apprentices, including recent school leavers, are accustomed to and expect to use technology for learning.

As well as helping to provide flexible delivery of the theoretical components of trade apprenticeships, e-learning tools – such as the QTImPlayer – are also allowing teachers and trainers to remotely assess learners on the job, using evidence gathered electronically.

Mr Ruhanen commented that e-learning provides learners with the flexibility to complete training at their own pace and in their own environment – which is particularly beneficial for apprentices based in remote areas.

And while a recent report, E-learning outcomes by industry area, highlighted that the trades have not adopted e-learning as widely or quickly as the information industries – computing, education and business services – the trade industries are certainly making progress.

Registered training organisations (RTOs) across Australia are developing innovative e-learning training solutions for the trades, with funding and support from the national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework).

The Framework’s E-learning Innovations projects are helping to embed e-learning in a wide range of traditional trades, including plumbing, automotive, electrical, and building and construction.

Three recent Framework projects which developed e-learning solutions for the trades are:

More than 145 E-learning Innovations projects are being funded and supported by the Framework this year, including projects which aim to use everyday technologies to enhance learning for the trades. For example:

To find out more, visit: http://flexiblelearning.net.au/innovations

E-resources for the trades

LORN

Online resources portal LORN connects training providers with free or low-cost learning resources from around the country, through a central online source. Trades teachers and trainers can design or customise their own training by mixing and matching learning resources from LORN’s state, territory and two national collections – TVET Australia and the Toolbox Repository.

Flexible Learning Toolboxes

In consultation with Industry Skills Councils, the Framework has developed numerous Flexible Learning Toolboxes (Toolboxes) for the trades. Toolboxes are high quality, cost effective interactive e-learning and assessment resources featuring scenarios, images and activities.

Toolboxes allow learners in the trades to develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a safe virtual environment, before hands-on practice in the workplace.

Toolboxes are available for a wide range of trades, including aeroskills, panel beating and competitive manufacturing. To preview the full range of Toolboxes for the trades, visit:

http://toolboxes.flexiblelearning.net.au/preview/index.htm

The range of e-learning resources for the trades is increasing each year, so for updates on the latest developments and innovations stay tuned to the Framework website: http://flexiblelearning.net.au