Flexible learning

Flexible learning expands choice about what, when, where and how people learn. It is a learner-centred approach to education and training that covers a range of delivery modes, including e-learning, distance education, mixed-mode delivery, online learning, self-paced and self-directed learning.

Why is flexible learning so important?

Flexibility is a fundamental concept in the national training system. Employers and industry in general need to have access to training that suits their business environment, and students are increasingly drawn to education and training pathways that help them balance their work, life and education commitments.

What are the benefits of flexible learning?

Flexible learning offers benefits to training organisations, learners and employers:

  • Training organisations can gain a competitive advantage by providing flexible learning options to clients. This may include opening up new markets in delivery of training in international, national, regional and remote areas.
  • Students learn in different ways, and flexible learning gives them access to training that best suits their learning styles. Flexible learning also opens up a range of learning options and increases accessibility, helping to make training more equitable.
  • Employers benefit from flexible learning as they are able to integrate training into their workplace in a way that suits their operations.

What is e-learning?

Information and communication technologies have expanded what is possible in educational contexts and introduced the concept of e-learning.

E-learning comprises a range of applications and processes which use all available electronic media to deliver knowledge and information. It ranges from the use of a CD in a classroom to wholly electronic approaches such as web-based learning, virtual classrooms and digital collaboration.

Greater success with learners is being achieved where e-learning is combined with other forms of delivery. This approach is sometimes referred to as blended learning.

Flexible learning in the national training system

Since 2000 the national training system has implemented a national strategy, the Australian
Flexible Learning Framework, to help the vocational education and training sector take up e-learning and flexible learning.

Under the framework, products, services and resources have been developed to help training organisations implement e-learning and e-business practices.

The Australian Flexible Learning Framework provides access to an innovative range of e-learning tools and interactive resources. It also provides support networks, professional development funding and opportunities, and useful research information. Most Australian Flexible Learning Framework products and services are available free of charge to training organisations.

The Australian Flexible Learning Framework also develops Flexible Learning Toolboxes. Toolboxes are a collection of high quality learning resources and suggested learning strategies to support online delivery of nationally endorsed training packages. They can be purchased from TVET Australia Product Services.

Next article: Reasonable adjustment