This house believes the only way is e-learning

This was the motion I had to argue for in a debate last week at a conference of NHS pharmacists. I definitely got the short straw because it's impossible to defend an absolute. And of course e-learning is not the only way. I decided to argue instead for the idea that e-learning (defined very broadly) is where attention should be focused given the problems we're currently facing in workplace learning.

Here's a rough outline of my argument:

First of all we have some pretty significant problems:

• A scarcity of budget for training
• A scarcity of teacher/trainer time
• A scarcity of time for learner to spend training
• Massive disruption in the employment market as a result of the economic downturn, structural changes caused by technological change and globalisation
• A requirement and a desire to reduce CO2 emissions

At the same time there is are new expectations:

• A demand for learning content and experiences that are highly relevant to current work issues
• A demand for immediate access to learning content and experiences
• A demand for more flexibility in ho, when and where these experiences are made available
• Along with a recognition that it is no longer necessary to know everything, but instead to have access on-demand to resources

We also now recognise that motivation is largely a factor of a sense of purpose, a desire for autonomy and a quest for mastery.

Traditional training cannot help us to overcome these problems.

The only way to overcome these obstacles is through e-learning.

Let's clarify what we mean by e-learning:

• content of all sorts, top-down or user-generated
• interaction with experts and coaches
• interaction with peers
• can be real-time or self-paced
• can be delivered through a multitude of devices

E-learning allows to exploit the power of computers:

• all forms of digital content, including audio, video, animation, text and still images - 2D and 3D
• adaptivity and personalisation
• immersive simulations

E-learning allows us to exploit the power of networks:

• to join together in the creation of learning content
• to provide learning on a scale that has hitherto been unthinkable

We are at a crossroads:

• huge problems
• new expectations
• wonderful opportunities afforded by technology

Only e-learning can enable us to create a new model for vocational learning that is responsive, scalable, engaging and relevant.

The only way is e-learning.