E-learning, or learning conducted by electronic media over the internet, is a term that has been with us since the turn of the 21st century. It is widely reported that over 70% of us now use a form of e-learning as a means to broadening our horizons.
The e-learning concept allows for individuals to manage their own development without the need to attend classrooms, which is hardly a new phenomenon. Correspondence learning can be traced back to the 1840’s, when Isaac Pitman first taught his pupils shorthand using this technique.
An argument can also be made for the Open University being another early pioneer. This was established in the 1960’s as a distance learning university for undergraduates, even broadcasting some of its’ courses through BBC television.
More recent contributions include the late Steve Jobs, who’s drive to get PC’s into our homes started with the first Macintosh computer in 1984. Along with the world wide web development during the 1990’s, these have both been significant milestones along the journey to e-learning.
Today, E-learning comes in many forms and is quickly evolving. Micro learning is the fastest growing trend right now. This can be defined as small bite size learning opportunities, which are available online, and can usually be accessed through PC, tablet and mobile.
Micro learning caters for the modern business pupil, who is believed to have a limited attention span due to the vast amount of information that we now take in on a daily basis. It is this specific aspect of e-learning that is perhaps the perfect match for an exceptionally busy freight industry. So why?
The Obvious
Time is an obvious reason that e-learning, specifically micro learning, would suit a hectic trade such as international logistics. There is never enough of it during the working day. So taking in essential knowledge over 30-45 minute intervals, perhaps in lunchtimes or after work, perhaps while the partner catches up on TV soaps or sport, is a great way to fit training into a busy workload.
The Access
Micro learning should be accessible on multiple devices. With the introduction of 3G and 4G technologies, our access to the internet via mobiles and tablets has now become available on the move.
The first mobile call was made in 1973. During the next 35 years, manufacturers concentrated on making phones smaller and more convenient to carry. The convenience in recent times is very much focused on the view of the internet, as screens get larger once more. This has led to the number of web views, from mobiles and tablets, surpassing laptops and PC’s during 2015, for the very first time.
International Logistics, with its’ global nature, tends to be a travel heavy industry, so the accessibility of micro learning should suit the profession perfectly.
The Reach
Training in classrooms, hotels, or even onsite, puts a limit on the number of pupils that can attend single training courses. That is without considering scheduling, pupil withdrawal, travelling, and many other potential inconveniences.
E-Learning is delivered via a world wide classroom reaching all corners of the globe. In an industry that often relies on satellite or sales offices, having a far reaching e-learning product enables a more consistent, more global, message.
The Price
Of course there are investment costs, both in money and time, when setting up an e-learning platform. Yet the ongoing cost, compared to classroom training, is greatly reduced. This means that e-learning is usually a far more cost effective means of delivery.
Micro training should focus on the essential facts in a shorter format, which should be reflective in the price. That should be welcome news to a high volume, lower margin industry, such as international freight services.
ADL Media provide online freight training courses through our sister site:
OnlineFreightTraining.com
