Beyond E-Learning

This session began by posing the corrrect question for e-learning: "How can e-learning help my business?" Training is the methodology we use to present information to others. Learning is what happens internally to the student, if they accept and understand the training. In order to leverage learning and learning technology for best business benefits, we must concentrate on more that just the learning element. The proper business culture must be built, grown and/or nurtured for adequate support of the learning endeavors. This support must come from the learners and business management.

The process starts with having the right people in the right positions. Talent management must be the corner stone of this vital element. Adequate motivation and incentive must also be in place to get the employees to want to do the right things. There must also be adequate resources and environment must also be present to allow proper performance. Then learning can take place to optimize performance.

Successful learning program evolve from learner awareness to learner understanding and learner preference and finally to learner evangelists. Try to be the best resource available to your company employees/learners.

Knowledge Management: Getting information from those who have it to those who need it at the right time. (FirstGo.gov) Successful implementation requires adequate tools to search and find the information. This intellectual capital must be properly maintained and could be used with performance support (job aids or tools) to allow performance without needing to teach the user.

E-learning needs to be part of the overall learning system including classroom, online training, knowledge management, and performance support. As learners evolve from novice to competent, to experienced to master/expert employees their need for formal training decreases and their need for practice, resources, access to knowledge and informal training increases.