The application of e-learning is rapidly expanding and forecasts for growth in the e-learning industry are more than optimistic. The IDC predicts an 83% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for Europe and 63% CAGR worldwide from 2000 to 2004.
E-learning delivery is flexible and countries can adapt their e-learning models to local conditions, says Andre Hogan, director of sales operations at NETg, United Kingdom, who is in SA to confirm the re-appointment of ADvTECH Skills as the sole distributor for NETg in sub-Saharan Africa for the next five years.
"The methods of integrating e-learning into corporate training models are impacted by local tactical issues and infrastructure constraints. Delivery of e-learning varies according to the country`s training culture and legislation."
Worldwide positioning of courses differs, notes Hogan. "South Africa`s legislation and corporate learning culture mean businesses fund and deliver a significant proportion of training. This differs from countries such as India, where e-learning vendors concentrate on the retail market as the onus lies on the individual.
"Europe places emphasis on formal government and professional qualifications. The European Union promotes a more rounded educational solution and this validates the use of e-learning. SA needs courses that fit into the National Qualifications Framework and that support companies` training plans. Vendor e-learning material dovetails with this approach.
"In the past, a two year lead-time was common for new US technology trends to be adopted in Europe, then South Africa and other countries."
Globalisation has reduced this to two weeks and less. This means that South African companies have almost immediate access to current trends and have the same concerns about e-learning as other countries.
"Cost-effective delivery is affected by a country`s telecommunications infrastructure and charge rates. Flat-rate call costs and free local calls in the US have boosted Internet delivery of course material, making it cost-effective for the average citizen. Broadband availability adds further efficiencies, with immediate and continuous access and supports the Internet-based application service provider (ASP) model. South African telecommunications costs and delivery differ and local e-learning can use other delivery strategies," says Hogan.
Mike Pitsillis, MD of ADvTECH Skills, says the African market is opening up as African companies look for training of an international standard to develop their global competitiveness. "Telecommunications and other infrastructure limitations can be met with flexible approaches using the standalone PC and a local area network to service a complete office," he comments.
"Traditional instructor-led delivery is not excluded, as an optimal mix of automated and instructor-led training is advisable. E-learning also dictates a consistent standard of training for instructors. Globalisation has given training a boost as materials are now readily available, with the added support of skills assessment, course identification and software to manage and monitor the progress of the training plan."
Hogan emphasises that SA can gain from the US approach.
"Significant gains in productivity are seen in the US. This results from a goal-directed approach to e-learning. The aim is not primarily to complete a course but to see measurable improvement in job performance. Course requirements are defined in relation to the skills needed to support company productivity and profitability. Individual employees understand that e-learning is not just a benefit, but the skills gained must be seen to be applied."
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