E‐learner experiences: key questions to ask when considering implementing e‐learning

Purpose – To draw attention to what experience has shown are the “must consider” areas to be taken into account when considering an e‐learning intervention. Design/methodology/approach – Based on 29 research case studies. Findings – This article draws on the experiences of a number of companies which experienced difficulties in taking the e‐learning route. E‐learning should not necessarily be used to replace classroom training as it is not suitable for everything. You need to make sure that the learning or training needs drive the technology rather than the other way round, and the technology itself can pose a multitude of problems. The time involved is also commonly underestimated, as is the diverse range of people who should be involved in the start‐up team. Practical implications – Attention is drawn to key areas for consideration when venturing into an e‐learning development. Originality/value – Reflections of early adopters of e‐learning highlight areas of success and difficulty, to help other organisations avoid the same pitfalls.