The Value of E-learning

National PTA takes a blended approach to training current and emerging leaders, incorporating on-site classroom training with self-paced and Web-based (e-learning) courses to give learners more opportunities through a variety of methods. Classroom training is offered at National PTA annual conventions, biannual legislative conferences, and multistate conferences. E-learning and self-paced training is available any time. If you've ever felt you and your PTA members lack training opportunities due to time or budget constraints, don't miss out on e-learning, available exclusively in the Members' area of www.pta.org.

The benefits

· Convenience. With e-learning, learners complete an e-learning course via the Web whenever they choose, any hour of the day or night, and take the course at their own pace. Plus, no travel is required.

· Enhancement to classroom training. By wrapping e-learning around traditional classroom training, more can be accomplished before, after, and in between classroom sessions. This makes the time spent in the classroom much more productive and valuable, according to a May 2000 Merrill Lynch report.

· Instantaneous feedback. E-learning encourages interaction and provides feedback instantly, telling the learner if he or she is responding correctly and then offering guidance. This reduces the possibility of misinformation.

· Instantaneous support. Users can get information or support right when they need it. As a result, learners have performed better in applied learning situations such as on a job. The FBI's national security division, as cited in the December 9, 2002, edition of Federal Computer Week, says this fact is critical when evaluating its distance-learning results.

· Fun and innovative. E-learning provides a relaxed and emotionally safe environment in which to practice using new technology while gaining experience.

Terrie Ridley is a training specialist for National PTA.