Selecting Telematic Solutions for Flexible Learning Delivery to SMEs
Steve Wheeler and Jessica Pytel
Paper presented at the ADAPT through RATIO Conference
University of Plymouth, UK
August 31 - September 1, 1999
Abstract
This paper highlights the need to deliver flexible open learning and
information products into local business communities, particularly targeting
rural based small and medium sized enterprises. Lack of skilled staff coupled
with lack of knowledge about new communications technologies and poor access to
business information products have disadvantaged the South West region in the
past. This is now changing with the advent of
ADAPT through RATIO (AtR) and other European funded economic
regeneration initiatives.
By June 1999, RATIO (a European funded
telematics project) had established a network of 39 telematics centres
throughout the far South West peninsula. Each telematic centre is equipped with
computer and communications technologies to enable distributed populations to
train for new qualifications and access business information locally, and at
times to suit their life styles, working patterns and personal budgets.
One of the vital tasks faced by the RATIO team was to select appropriate
delivery methods and technologies prior to the commencement of the project. In
parallel to this, the need to identify provider support systems was required to
underpin user activities within the telecentres. This paper describes a number
of telematic solutions to enable flexible training and working within rural
community settings, and outlines a method of benefits analysis.
This paper was presented to the ADAPT through RATIO Conference at the
University of Plymouth, on 1 September, 1999.
A copy of the full paper can be obtained on request from the authors