E-learning

E-learning is simply computer or internet supported learning or training.

The benefits of this type of learning include:

• Available 24 hours a day, so that the training can be integrated into the working day and night shifts or can even be done at home.
• It's efficient, cutting down on travelling time/expenses and staff cover costs.
• Can be used effectively with new workers meeting the Induction standards and timescales.
• Existing workers can use it as a refresher or a re-training tool as and when required.
• Managers can plan training effectively, so that it does not impact on the service.
• It can be undertaken in small bite-size chunks, so it can fit in with day to day tasks and duties.
• It's immediately available so no need to wait for the next available classroom course.

These benefits mean that, alongside the development of quality materials that are specific to social care, e-learning is fast becoming the serious alternative to classroom training.

However, as with all training, managers must remember that its their responsibility to ensure that the learning is successfully tranferred into practice via observation, assessment and professional discussion in supervision.

The Salford Care Training Partnership currently offer the following packages to its members:

E-tutor - This is Salford City Council's e-learning Platform that hosts a broad range of e-learning materials including the Safeguarding Adults in Salford module. To be able to access this, partners will be required to complete an application form.

Social Care TV - An exciting new addition to the partnership's e-learning portfolio,with over 30 social care topics that are standard compliant.

In addition to the above, we would like to draw you attention to the following free e-learning providers that you might find useful.

Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE)

A free resource that includes the following topics:

• Managing knowledge to improve social care
• Personalisation
• The open dementia programme
• Communication skills
• An introduction to mental health of older people

Stroke Association e-learning course: Stroke is a medical emergency - £10.00 course.

This page was last updated on 6 October 2011