Online Learning opportunities have mushroomed in recent years. However, many local residents lack access to computers and the Internet and require support services to use them effectively.

This project description was written by Terry Grunwald for the Scottish Communities Channel in 2001, but is now longer available there. We plan to update here shortly.

What do Online Learning Projects Do?

• Work with local residents to identify course options that are appropriate and relevant to their unique situation

• Upgrade basic literacy and numeracy skills when needed as a prerequisite to these courses.

• Use tutor/mentors to supplement the online instruction with personal attention and follow-up

• Subsidise the cost of fee-based courses

• Identify learning opportunities such as Community Regeneration that focus on solving local community problems

• Create their own online curricula tailored to local needs

In some cases, the online learning opportunities are available to the general public directly from the Internet and the project provides value-added services. In other cases, the organisation, which hosts the project, must be certified in order to offer specialised coursework.

Resources

British Association for Open Learning has a web site with some excellent links.

Other sources of online courses? Blue Web'N provides a library of "blue ribbon" learning sites on the web or try Freeskills.com,

Want to create your own course? WebCT.com, the E-learning hub provides tools. So does Blackboard.

Models

Castlemilk Economic Development Agency's Communities Online offers local residents a variety of training modules - depending on interest and position on the learning curve.

Key Lesson Learned: People get trained on a "package" but after the training they need to 1) reinforce their training and 2) apply it in the real world environment. "We need to provide hands-on support every step of the way."

The Dumfries and Galloway Library offers a Library Power project that provides a continuum of online learning that includes (1) introductory sessions; (2) short courses; (3) one-on-one support; (4) tailored courses for self-employed and small businesses; and (5) open learning packs that allow residents to learn new skills at a time that suits their needs.

Key Lesson Learned: Offer good quality childcare in a safe and caring environment for children whose parents attend classes at the centre.