Further Information: Those involved in the design and development of e-Learning understand the need to develop flexible learning opportunities, support and access to learning for all staff.
Flexibility, Support and Access
All NHS staff, whatever their job, location, band or working hours, have a right to equal access to training and development opportunities in relation to their work. As the largest employer in the UK the variety of job roles contained within the NHS is extensive. The work base can be within large locations such as hospitals but it can also be out in the community located sometimes with limited access to the larger NHS communications network. As a 24-hour service the working hours of staff can vary considerably.
When designing and delivering e-Learning the developers and designers must consider
- location – In the workplace, a central venue (consider reasonable travelling distance for staff), at home. Can the training go to them?
- equipment – what equipment is readily available to staff. Is it used and understood by them?
- time – Repeat sessions over different days and times of day to accommodate shift workers and part time staff.
- alternatives – where possible what alternative methods of delivery can be on offer?
- support – who will provide ongoing support, feedback and follow up to the training? When and how will they be available?
Some examples of flexible approaches used by NHS organisations include.
- offering courses or modules online
- enabling staff to access opportunities via hand held devices i.e. ambulance staff waiting off site between call outs
- extending opening hours or access to library and e-Learning centres to accommodate different shifts
- email and online support available
- hire of an IT bus to take courses out to remote sites.
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