Search Results

This paper results from a research project with the purpose of identifying and assessing the most effective ways in which flexible delivery models (in particular online learning models) can address the cultural diversity of the global community. The focus of this paper is to explore the preparedness of the Australian vocational education and training (VET) sector to participate in what the author calls ‘the international currency of trade’ (knowledge). Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have afforded a variety of online learning opportunities. Flexible learning, in particular online learning, is looked at, with evidence suggesting that its influence on VET has been both positive and negative. ICT and the online learning medium have been shown to have the potential to address large social issues, but also to change societies, economies and markets fundamentally, acting as an agent of conformity. The author suggests that learning is essentially a social process that takes place in a cultural context and looks at the role technology can play in either supporting cultural difference or minimising it. Show less