The effects of technology‐based learning on design engineers and the organisation

Technology‐based learning (TBL) provides a flexible learning approach to support the knowledge and skills base within an organisation. TBL also creates an interesting learning environment to motivate continuous learning. Emphasis is on the engineering design environment due to the continuous need for engineers to keep updated with current engineering information, knowledge and technologies. With the greater work demands placed on the engineer and less time to learn in, a more self‐directed learning approach is required. TBL tackles the increasing need for immediate learning and self‐directed learning. By establishing an effective learning environment, the engineers can use their own initiative and take responsibility for their own training and learning requirements. This is beneficial to organisational learning as well as the individual’s self‐development. The effects of TBL on the design engineer and the organisation are investigated.