Elearning in trades

1
E-learning in trades

• Vanessa Marsh

2
Overview

• Issued faced at GippsTAFE
• Strategies to overcome these issues
• Examples of how e-learning is being used within
  the trade areas

3
Issues and Barriers

• Workforce demographic (54/11 Vic)
• Limited computer skills
• Student IT skills
• Difficulties understanding the application of
  e-learning within a trade context
• Breaking down the culture and traditional
  practice

4
Useful Strategies

• The introduction of online voice tools
• Introduction of digital assessments
• Introduction of digital stories as learning
  objects
• Using self marking quizzes as the first stage of
  change
• Encouraging teachers to look outside their
  department and Institute for guidance and
  examples of excellence
• Individualized mentoring of staff

5
Useful Strategies

• Establishment of a mini-flexible learning
  computer hub within the department for students,
  as they are reluctant to access computers within
  the library
• Created a simple CD for student induction to the
  online learning platform
• Developed learning solutions which use voiceovers
  and are mouse driven
• Flag possible changes in fee structures where
  students/employers purchase a digital camera.
  This cost is off set by reduced off-the-job time
• Employers see the benefits in receiving
  just-in-time student information, generated by
  the student tracking options within the online
  platform

6
Examples

• TXU gas workers
• Telecommunication cable workers
• Automotive students using digital assessments
• Building studies students using online quizzes
• Painting and decorating distance trainees
• Panel beating students using the toolbox

7
Goal

• To replace block release with open access
  timetabling
• This will increase flexibility for employers and
  students
• Does require the teacher to adopt the roll of
  facilitator
• Requires suitable resourcing i.e. self paced
  learning materials and assessments
• Requires a change in culture
• Requires a change in student enrolment and
  support processes

8
Thank You

• Vanessa Marsh
• TAFE VC Co-ordinator
• Phone [phone]
• Email vanessam_at_gippstafe.vic.edu.au