a ADOPTION OF E-LEARNING BY THE ACADEMIC AND INDUSTRY STAFF Project presented by Paidamoyo Gwata BSc COMPUTER SCIENCE a ADOPTION OF E-LEARNING BY THE ACADEMIC AND INDUSTRY STAFF

Table of Contents Introduction Adoption of e-learning by the academic and industry staff Problem statement Literature search Methods of Inquiry Findings recommendations Conclusion

Introduction The purpose of my research is to elaborate more on how the academic and industry staff have adopted to e-learning, focusing more on the positive outlook as well as an analytical view at the negative side so as to come out with relevant solutions. I am interested in this topic because it gives an analytical view on the barriers of the adoption of e-learning as well as the relevant ways to ensure successful engaging in e-learning. Enough and properly done research on this topic will be very helpful to education institutes, firms and industries that are striving to connect to the pulse of technology

Adoption of e-learning Adoption refers to taking up the cause , ideology, practice ,method of someone/something and use it as ones own. Adoption refers to take and follow a course of action by choice or assent So in this case the adoption of e-learning is the partaking of electronic learning ideologies, practices and methods implemented by other institutions or industries and making them into our own

Problem Statement While we can learn from other institutions that have successfully implemented e-learning, it is imperative that we understand our own unique needs because despite the obvious benefits of e-learning, users world-wide may react differently to the same thing, so consequently those responsible for implementing e-learning globally must not presume that observations or assumptions based on experiences in one location apply elsewhere.

literature search Marc Humbert (2007)– e-learning has gained more and more importance over the years in higher education and all around the world and its adoption is a key factor to success

Methodology and data collection Data was collected from 10 lecturers and 10 employees from the department store Edgars in Mthatha. The research was conducted using a questionnaire. The survey questions were developed based on wanting to establish the relationship between (a)attitude towards e-learning (b) Access to the ICT resources (c) Training in ICT skills and adoption of e-learning demographic questions were included in the questionnaire. All questionnaires were completed and useable thus satisfying our sample size requirements for a statistical analysis and also eliminating concerns relating to non-response bias, The demographic data revealed that the sample comprised of a balanced spread in terms of gender with 51% females.

Findings The results suggested that the main challenge was lack of knowledge of basic computer literacy itself and implementation training Resistance to change (when change comes, people resist) -generational gap -employees tend to think that e-learning is progressing towards their replacements Lack of motivation There is domination of male participation

Recommendations I recommend that there be a qualified personnel to assist in the adoption to e-learning in any organisation be it an industry or an academic setup. Short beginner courses in computer literacy ,in house training, self-study guides and manuals a reliable server working computers enhancement of employee support and a good career guidance ,employees need to understand that e-learning is a support system and is not meant to replace them It is of importance to learn from other’s experiences to utilise their skills and expertise as experience is the best teacher….PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT…

Conclusion Based on research, interviews and I myself being part of those engaged in e-learning, it is clear that there is no one right answer for how to develop and deliver e-learning efficiently as there’s different needs per individual or per industry. Critical analysis into the actual needs of the industry and the learners is the main key to success In the business world everything culminates to the bottom line which is profit...Employing a successful e-learning strategy allows a corporation to cut costs tremendously, while increasing workplace satisfaction and raising employee motivation.