The impact of e-learning champions on embedding e-learning in organisations, industry or communities

E-learning champions as agents of change can be found in the vocational education and training (VET) system, which includes TAFEs, private [registered training organisations] RTOs, schools and adult learning settings. This report identifies the program design and performance reporting framework required for a champion strategy to impact effectively and achieve the goal of embedding e-learning in VET teaching and learning. This report is based on a study funded and supported by the national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework that was conducted in the second half of 2008. [The study team defines] e-learning champions as people who have demonstrated leadership and as a consequence have significantly influenced or developed the e-learning capacity of their business unit, organisation or have had an influence beyond their immediate organisation. [They define] embedding as the final stage of an innovation process that starts with an initial decision to engage (adoption), moves to spreading the word (diffusion), consolidates in utilisation (implementation), and culminates in embedding. The overall aims of the study were to: (1) inform the Australian VET sector on the effectiveness of the use of e-learning champions as a strategy to effectively embed e-learning practice; and (2) advise on whether a champion’s model should be supported and if so under what circumstances and what it means for VET program design and performance reporting. Data was collected on four topics through the literature review, national consultations and case studies, presented respectively in the following four sections of this report: (1) the characteristics of an e-learning champion of change; (2) the activities champions undertake to facilitate uptake of technology in VET teaching and learning; (3) the support champions seek from an organisation, industry or community to embed e-learning; and (4) the impact e-learning champions have had, and how it has been or might be measured. The final chapter of the report contains the answers to the study questions and advice for potential e-learning champions, their managers and policy makers to achieve the embedding of e-learning into VET teaching and learning practices.

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