Literaturnachweis - Detailanzeige
Autor/inn/en | Allan, Barbara; Lewis, Dina |
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Titel | Virtual Learning Communities as a Vehicle for Workforce Development: A Case Study |
Quelle | In: Journal of Workplace Learning, 18 (2006) 6, S.367-383 (17 Seiten)Infoseite zur Zeitschrift
PDF als Volltext |
Sprache | englisch |
Dokumenttyp | gedruckt; online; Zeitschriftenaufsatz |
ISSN | 1366-5626 |
DOI | 10.1108/13665620610682099 |
Schlagwörter | Time Management; Training Methods; Labor Force Development; Work Environment; Computer Mediated Communication; Case Studies; Foreign Countries; Health Services; Discussion Groups; Internet; Data Analysis; Educational Technology; Professional Development; Access to Computers; Problems; Organizational Development; Distance Education; Health Personnel; Public Agencies; Government Employees; Integrated Learning Systems; United Kingdom Zeitmanagement; Didaktik; Trainingsmaßnahme; Arbeitskräftebestand; Arbeitsmilieu; Computerkonferenz; Case study; Fallstudie; Case Study; Ausland; Health service; Gesundheitsdienst; Gesundheitswesen; Auswertung; Unterrichtsmedien; Problemsituation; Organisationsentwicklung; Distance study; Distance learning; Fernunterricht; Medizinisches Personal; Öffentliche Einrichtung; Großbritannien |
Abstract | Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore the benefits and challenges of using a virtual learning community (VLC) as a vehicle for workforce development. This paper argues that VLCs provide a flexible vehicle for workforce development. However, workplace realities may lead to unexpected challenges for participants wanting exploit the flexibility of e-learning technologies. Design/methodology/approach: The case study is located in a strategic healthcare organisation in the UK. The study used a multi-method approach to develop a rich picture of the VLC. Data were collected from a variety of sources (programme evaluation questionnaires, learning logs, discussion group messages and VLE tracking system) and analysed using quantitative and qualitative methods. Findings: The findings indicate that while membership of a VLC offers new opportunities for collaboration, learning and working at a time and place that suits individuals it also offers many challenges. The following issues were identified as having an impact on effective participation in the VLC: motivation; time management; public/private boundaries; work/life balance; and access to ICT. Research limitations/implications: There are limitations in generalising from a particular case study. The use of a case study provides a depth to the study that helps to illuminate the experiences of individual e-learners. Practical implications: The findings have strategic implications for organisations planning to use VLCs to support workforce development. The study indicates the need for facilitators to enable participants to explore time and work/life balance issues. It highlights the importance of involving the managers of e-learners in the negotiations involved in establishing a VLC. Finally, the study identified that employers need to provide protected time for e-learners and that access to technology is an issue. Originality/value: The research has value to managers who are considering using VLCs as a means of enhancing workforce development. (Contains 2 tables.) (As Provided). |
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Erfasst von | ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Washington, DC |
Update | 2017/4/10 |