E‐learner experiences: key questions to ask when considering implementing e‐learning

Abstract

Purpose

To draw attention to what experience has shown are the “must consider” areas to be taken into account when considering an e‐learning intervention.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on 29 research case studies.

Findings

This article draws on the experiences of a number of companies which experienced difficulties in taking the e‐learning route. E‐learning should not necessarily be used to replace classroom training as it is not suitable for everything. You need to make sure that the learning or training needs drive the technology rather than the other way round, and the technology itself can pose a multitude of problems. The time involved is also commonly underestimated, as is the diverse range of people who should be involved in the start‐up team.

Practical implications

Attention is drawn to key areas for consideration when venturing into an e‐learning development.

Originality/value

Reflections of early adopters of e‐learning highlight areas of success and difficulty, to help other organisations avoid the same pitfalls.

Citation

Ettinger, A., Holton, V. and Blass, E. (2006), "E‐learner experiences: key questions to ask when considering implementing e‐learning", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 38 No. 3, pp. 143-147. https://doi.org/10.1108/00197850610659409