An e-learning project in Hervey Bay is taking steps to reduce regional unemployment and meet the demand for skilled aged care workers in Queensland, with the creation of a physical and virtual learning lounge.
“This region has one of the highest unemployment rates and highest aging community rates in Australia,” says Project Manager and CEO of Simple Solutions Training and Consulting, Natalie Sell.
“The Community Learning Lounge project aims to recruit jobseekers to participate in e-learning activities to provide them with introductory training in aged care, as well as integrating e-learning in the vocational education and training (VET) sector.
“We have developed a supportive and flexible learning environment for participants so they can choose to use their own computers or mobile technology from home or another external location, with the option of dropping in to utilise our community learning lounge resources,” she says.
The project is being delivered by Simple Solutions Training and Consulting, in partnership with local Job Services Australia providers, organisations that regularly seek high quality, adaptable and reliable training options for their clients that meet industry standards.
“Five units of competency are being offered, with the successful completion of the Community Services Training Package contributing towards their Certificate III in Aged Care.
“This flexible training model gives learners the added benefit of pursuing a career in other areas that are compatible with home, community care and disability qualifications,” says Ms Sell.
The Community Learning Lounge is providing learners who have traditionally had a relatively low level of computer literacy with the confidence to continue their professional development using e-learning, while improving their workforce skills.
“The individualisation of our e-learning program is vital to the learners’ success and so far it has been well received, with one enrolled learner already offered employment.
“In terms of continued success, as a registered training organisation (RTO) we believe this project will establish us as a local leader in the delivery of e-learning and have decided to continue the learning lounge as a core business activity,” she says.
The Community Learning Lounge project will be showcased at the Training Providers Forum on 14 and 15 May 2012 in Perth. The project has been funded by the National VET E-learning Strategy, as part of the Access to Skills Program, which uses e-learning to improve learner access to training, skills upgrading and improved employment outcomes.
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