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3.2 REASONS FOR THE CHOICE OF A TECHNOLOGICAL APPROACH


3.2.1 Individualised, learner-driven training

Learning technologies are seen as providing a tailor-made approach, that takes individual needs and differences in knowledge into consideration (UBS, Digital, Hewlett Packard). For those firms which consider that the learner knows best what to learn and should be left to choose, learning technologies make it possible (Silicon Graphics). They also allow the learner to set his or her own learning pace (Digital).

3.2.2 Just-in-time learning

One of the important reasons raised for using learning technologies is that they enable learning and provide help when necessary (UBS, Oracle, Digital). They also make it easier and faster to distribute new information (Silicon Graphics, Hewlett Packard).

3.2.3 On-the-spot learning

For some companies, one of the important aspects of learning technologies is that they make learning possible in the place where it is needed most: on the job (UBS, Oracle, Silicon Graphics, MIGROS).

3.2.4 Cost and efficiency

Andreas Kisch (MIGROS) said that the choice of using learning technologies was essentially a question of speed of delivery, cost and feasibility. He saw no viable alternative when providing widespread, basic training for the fifty thousand people working for MIGROS. In addition, he said, that thanks to the resulting decentralisation of learning, costly travelling expenses were avoided.

One company specifically mentioned that learning technologies decrease overload on existing training (Nestl). Another mentioned that such technologies made it possible to shorten learning time (Digital).

3.2.5 Appropriateness for adult education

Given the specific population of learners at the MIGROS (cf. 3.3), it is felt that computer assisted learning on-the-job in small groups with colleagues and superiors is the most adequate form of adult education. This is especially appropriate, Andreas Kisch says, when learning is not "heavily" pedagogical, but helpful, motivating and above all centred on practical considerations and problem solving.

3.2.6 The paperless company

Silicon Graphics are in the process of getting rid of the use of paper as a form of internal communication including training. The use of such technologies as the Web are considered major assets in this strategy.

3.2.7 Motivating younger learners

One organisation had a particular reason for using learning technologies: to motivate young learners and to create a positive image of the administration (Federal Personnel Office).


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