Ridley-Ellis, Daniel, Nolte, Sabine and Condon, Peter (2008) Online learning for the forest and timber industries. In: 10th World Conference on Timber Engineering 2008. Engineered Wood Products Association, pp. 461-469. ISBN 9781615670888

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Abstract/Description

Online learning offers advantages for all levels of training and development in the timber industries, from new recruits at technician level to chartered professionals. Learners and employers both value the flexibility it affords, while educators value its pedagogic capabilities. However, the creation of online courses remains an expensive and time-consuming process. Small one-off courses are typically uneconomic, but partnerships and economies of scale can reduce costs and make online short courses viable. Most universities and colleges have technologies and competencies in place to develop and deliver online courses, but industry involvement is essential to ensure the suitability of content and course structure. It can be difficult to achieve an effective partnership but the benefits make it worthwhile. This paper outlines the experience gained from two projects at Napier University.

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