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=E-learning on a Shoestring =

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**PLEASE NOTE: This wiki was created by Marlene Manto to support a presentation in June 2010. The site is NOT being maintained so please be aware that information and/or links may be out of date.**

Introduction
E-learning is a proven cost-effective training solution. According to the results of the 2009 Benchmarking Survey run by the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework), 35% of employers surveyed now use e-learning for training and 56% of RTOs delivered at least some units involving e-learning. The survey clearly demonstrates the value which the vocational education and training (VET) sector has placed on a flexible learning experience for learners.

While some development and implementation costs associated with e-learning are unavoidable, the good news is that there are ways these can be minimised and the following headings show where cost savings can be made. Use the links below (or in the navigation at left) to explore links, explanations, examples and relevant resources.

Topics
Click on the headings below, or the navigation at left.....

Find learning content that already exists
Why start from the beginning when there may be existing content you can simply pick up and use? If it isn't 'quite right', it is often easier to customise an existing learning resource rather than have to create an entirely new one.

Rethink what you already have
You probably already have resources such as PowerPoints, Word Docs, PDFs etc. You can turn these into e-learning resources very quickly by making them available online.

Create your own content
If you can’t find what you need, you can create your own course material using existing e-learning tools.All the tools covered are within the capabilities of a practitioner...no web development skills required.

Use free and open-source tools[[image:Tools.jpg width="252" height="200" align="right" link="Use free and open source tools"]]
A great low-cost way to get started with e-learning is to use free and open source software. Some of these (such as Moodle) are being taken up by many large training providers i.e. TAFE SA, UNISA, TAFE NSW etc.

Run your business with e-tools
Help your business to run more efficiently and effectively using e-tools, freeing up valuable time and resources.

Plan your e-learning with ready-to-go tools
A range of free resources and tools are available from the [|Framework website] to help you PLAN, DEVELOP and IMPLEMENT e-learning.

Find out what others are doing
So much is happening in the area of e-learning, both locally in South Australia as well as nationally. Check out some of the links in this section to explore what others are doing in the area of e-learning.

Getting help! [[image:Help.jpg width="231" height="163" align="right"]]
Sometimes, it all seems too hard to implement e-learning, but help is available via the Frameworkfor all VET providers across all sectors who wish to implement e-learning. In South Australia, these are:

The **E-learning Coordinator** (Marlene Manto)........can provide e-learning advice, assist with decision-making and help with the location of relevant e-learning products, tools and resources, together with examples of where e-learning is being used effectively. Marlene can visit your organisation to provide consultancy, speak at management meetings and planning days. **Ph:** 8226 1673 **Email:** marlene.manto@flexiblelearning.net.au

The **Toolbox Champion** (Douglas Purcell)........ can provide assistance with locating relevant e-learning and assessment resources, as well as assistance with using Toolboxes and LORN including the downloading & customising of learning objects. **Ph:** 8463 6346 **Email:** douglas.purcell@sa.gov.au


 * E-Skills **........ Is a not-for-profit business, supported by the Framework, which can provide affordable e-learning consultancy, professional development workshops, e-learning online courses, guest speakers, technical help and support.
 * Website:** www.e-skills.com.au
 * Ph:** 8207 8866
 * Email:** coordinator@e-skills.com.au

**ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS** Logo created with @http://cooltext.com Shoelaces photo by g.ottaviano Tools photo by Peter Martin Hall Lifesaver photo by Donnaphoto