PROFF – Professionalisation of VET teachers for the future - Europa

The effective utilisation of e-learning resources in a small andmedium sized enterprise (SME) depends on a sound learning infrastructure.This is the main result of a small research project, jointlyundertaken by Cedefop and the European Commission (DG Educationand Culture) that looked at the key issues in the use of e-learning in SMEs. A learning infrastructure is not just about computersand networks but entails the existence of a training strategyfor human resource development. There is little evidence, apartfrom isolated knowledge-rich companies, to suggest that an individualSME is able to provide this kind of infrastructure. Thus,regional based support or advisory bodies must play a key role. E-learning in SMEs may be most powerful when it is integrated incompany business processes through networks and systems forbusiness development. This facilitates informal learning which is integratedwith work processes. The tools or software systems used forlearning may not be dedicated e-learning platforms but everydaybusiness systems and software designed to promote learning objectivesat the same time as business objectives. Thus, the idea of e-resources in place of e-learning materials is put forward.04 05 16 TI-56-03-263-EN-CThe challenge of e-learningin small enterprises:issues for policy and practice in EuropeEuropean Centre for theDevelopment of Vocational TrainingEurope 123, GR-570 01 Thessaloniki (Pylea)Postal address: PO Box 22427, GR-551 02 ThessalonikiTel. (30) 23 10 49 01 11, Fax (30) 23 10 49 00 20E-mail: info@cedefop.eu.intHomepage: www.cedefop.eu.intInteractive website: www.trainingvillage.grFree of charge – On request from Cedefop5144 ENISBN 92-89602538