Online Learning Industry Changes

Although it seems our ever-evolving use of technology further diminishes the need for direct human interaction- it is clear that our distinct social conditioning means that training in isolation is fundamentally flawed.

With the advent of downloadable content we have seen a push toward flexible learning options- but are they effective? The dehumanisation of learning via downloadable resources with no filtering process other than the ability to pay has seen damaging effects on the skills sector.

With completion rates fluctuating between 20-30{4af88043e6f3e5caae8600b9e5a9b29a1c6dbdf4483f818ccc78179cbb808d2c} it is concerning that some providers are openly boasting success with completion rates of 60{4af88043e6f3e5caae8600b9e5a9b29a1c6dbdf4483f818ccc78179cbb808d2c}.

What does this suggest?

Humans are intrinsically social creatures and our uptake in the use of personal technology further enhances this. The expansion in the gaming communities and social media (proportionately our largest use of personalised technology use) demonstrates that we use technology to enhance our social interactions- not replace it.

In the skills sector, the misuse of technology has had adverse effects on completions rates. The sector (including TAFE’s) were quick to ‘use’ technology to replace trainers. This gross perversion of human interactivity was negligent. Technology should enhance not replace a fully engaged, skilled and passionate educator.

Playing the role of the chieftain- a trainer indeed is a valuable asset, not a liability. Technology cannot account for the need to modify delivery, be sensitive to learners’ individual needs and adapt to the audience as needed. This is the tip of the iceberg when trying to understand the importance of the human element in the learning process.

Perhaps we have gone a little astray. Although completion rates vary from institution to institution, one thing is clear. At all of the training organisations, I have worked at nothing beats effective pedagogy coupled with passion and determination that will ensure learners are safe and supported.

The proof is not in the wordsmith’s poignant write-ups, rather they lie simply in the stats. They do not lie, and the conclusion is simple… we are social creatures, so let our learning reflect this.

David Kopycinski – Training Delivery Manager