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Hi-Performance Learning spearheads e-learning in SA

Johannesburg, 16 Feb 2005

Hi-Performance Learning (HPL) has been internationally recognised for its development of technology that could revolutionise e-learning in SA and other developing countries.

In recognition of its e-learning prowess, HPL`s MD Ryan Falkenberg has been selected for the Endeavor Entrepreneurs programme which helps entrepreneurs in emerging markets to grow their businesses to a global scale.

Endeavor is a global organisation which identifies innovative emerging market entrepreneurs who have the ability to expand their initiatives internationally. Each Endeavor Entrepreneur receives marketing assistance, an 18-month work plan and a link-up with mentors to help develop effective business strategies for growth.

HPL`s innovations in learning technology and design have broken the traditional model of organisational learning in SA. The key technical enabler for this innovation has been Cuda Learning Software, which can be applied across very narrow bandwidths and is particularly appropriate for the developing world. Cuda is a suite of learning software that includes Cuda Learning Manager, Cuda Content Manager, Cuda Author and Cuda Coach.

The Cuda suite is highly configurable, scalable and capable of delivering e-learning within the boundaries of complex technical environments. It provides a solution that is technically capable of delivering online learning at under 30KB of network traffic. Falkenberg says the software lowers the costs and technical complexity typically associated with e-learning, and makes it easy for organisations to make e-learning a reality.

Endeavor was particularly impressed with Cuda`s ability to lower the barriers to entry for e-learning in developing countries. Says Falkenberg: "Our learning technologies can deliver e-learning where there is outdated hardware and software, restricted bandwidths and unstable network connections. We are also able to design customised learning solutions that address specific performance challenges at a cost that makes e-learning viable to the majority of organisations in Africa."

Falkenberg says the imminent launch of Cuda Version 3 will enable "media-rich and bandwidth light learning and content across complex technical landscapes. Organisations can begin using e-learning from early stages of readiness, and build up as the benefits of e-learning are realised."

"We are excited about our ability to apply e-learning to remote geographical regions, and will soon begin a pilot project using satellite technology to implement e-learning across many different locations simultaneously," says Falkenberg.

One of HPL`s success factors in delivering effective e-learning lies in the early work done by the company, in consultation with learning psychologists, to map out the logic of the brain.

"From early on we started developing online learning solutions that use the problem-solving logic that is applied by content experts in resolving key business challenges," says Falkenberg. "The result is an online coach that helps you solve complex problems without having to first be trained in the content. We believe in teaching people how to access information and solve problems, rather than relying on the teacher-child model of learning that is so entrenched in SA. We teach learners how to adapt to complexity, rather than memorise simplicity."

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