The e-learning enterprise : sourcing opportunities and ensuring sustainability

Abstract

Skills shortage is experienced world-wide and often a skills mismatch is observed between programme content and industry needs with the result that qualifications do not secure jobs. Furthermore the distribution of qualifications in different disciplines may not necessarily be aligned with the needs of a country. This paper informs private developers of electronic distance-learning programmes or academics that do curriculum development on how to identify national skills gaps and opportunities for e-learning, using the South African context as example. It also provides information on how to assure sustainability of these programmes by employing criteria for programme accreditation, by accommodating national strategies in education and by assessing ‘provider readiness’ to offer distance learning.