News
If you have been watching the news, you may have noticed a significant change in New Zealand’s education and training system.
With technology disrupting just about every industry, employees must be highly adaptable in order to meet constantly changing demands. This has dramatically increased the speed at which people need to upgrade their knowledge and competencies and, as a result, the way that people learn has changed.
Training now comes in a variety of shapes and sizes and is increasingly available with the click of a mouse through online or internet-based learning.
1. Tertiary and industry recognised providers
Universities that offer distance learning such as Massey University and online tertiary institutions like Open Polytechnic of New Zealand have offered multiple degree and certificate courses for some time.
New Zealand’s newest online learning provider is TANZ eCampus; a joint venture between several of New Zealand’s leading tertiary education institutes. This online learning service enables you to cherry pick industry recognised, NZQA accredited courses to upskill anywhere, anytime, and at your own pace.
Training courses can sometimes be costly so make sure you are going to learn the skills required or that they are recognised by a credible training provider.
2. Webinars
In conjunction with the rising use of eLearning programs, technology and mobile devices are heavily influencing how trainers deliver their training. In the learning and development world, there is the capability to create video learning materials and webinars, which can be a valuable and cost-effective source of education for your staff.
From professional online learning video providers such as Lynda.com to online speakers through TED Talks to amateur videos on posted YouTube, there is a large amount of video content available online.
3. Blogs
Blogs are usually written by industry experts or people with an interest in a subject. Where academic books will eventually go out of date (if not updated frequently), blogs are usually current and relevant.
Reading multiple blogs provide different perspectives on a topic. It's easy to get locked into one way of thinking about things, seeing things from different points of view can be of value.
4. Blended learning
Blended learning combines both online digital media and the traditional classroom approach to learning. The learner and teacher are both physically present however the student has some control over the time, place, path, and/or pace of study.
5. Self-directed learning
Self-directed learning is more than a learner choosing a course. Self-directed learning is when the learner takes the initiative and the responsibility for selecting, managing, and assessing their own learning activities. Learners are their own motivators and in the online space they are often unsupported, so the ‘did not complete’ rate can be high.
If upskilling is critical for future career development and the learner wants the flexibility of studying online, it’s recommended that the learner considers a provider like TANZ eCampus where every learner has their own course advisor and facilitator.
6. Face-to-Face learning
In this modern age, don’t forget about the tried and true methods of teaching.
Face-to-Face learning is still a hugely popular and effective method of learning. Technology has actually improved the delivery of many face-to-face providers with new software such as Google Docs and Dropbox allowing for a more collaborative style of learning.
Education has been made so much easier because of the astounding innovations in technology, but how do you know which skills to upskill?
