E-learning
The e-learning working group
Maria Jicheva heads the working group looking at how e-learning solutions can support cultural training using technology, remote access and adapted learning techniques.
Intercultural E-learning: Reflections of a trainer
Written by Maria Jicheva
Introduction
When I became an intercultural trainer, thinking of my professional future, the last thing I imagined was to be replaced by a snazzy, flashy, on-line programme, more sizzle than steak, or, worse, a boring text with a few cliparts and a lot of buttons to click on. Me and my wonderful, interactive, spontaneous, flexible, insightful training! After all what motivates me, what fuels my engine has always been: How to provide the best possible service for my client. E-learning could not be the best possible service! After all we are talking culture, sensitivity, trust. The last thing my client wants is to deepen the stereotypes through a simplified, streamlined, dry online system. Well….
A brief overview of E-learning
The end of the last century created a ‘brave new world’ of learning possibilities with advanced technology and arrival of the internet. This lead to high expectations for E-learning; with its time and cost-saving benefits. The reality was disappointing. Geoffrey Moore (see graph below) writes about this in ‘Crossing the Chasm’, 2nd ed, Capstone, Oxford)
E-learning adoption (graph, R Farkas)
…To use Geoffrey Moore’s words E-learning is still ‘crossing the chasm’ from a limited audience of early adopters (who are typically innovators and apologists for the technology) to the more questioning and cynical majority. Its method of crossing will define its future. E-learning has certainly lowered costs of delivering existing course-based education products. (From E2i, August 2003. www.redbean.com.au )
