The Use of e-Learning in Vocational Education and Training (VET): Systematization of Existing Theoretical Approaches

Abstract

Vocational education and training (VET) has been facing a lot of challenges lately in the context of geostrategic forces that are shaping our world. Recent technological changes, combined with shifts in global economic power, accelerating urbanization, and demographic changes have put pressure on the VET to become more responsive to the needs of the labour market and society. E-learning has been seen as an effective way of improving the quality of teaching and learning in VET schools due to its various forms. Nevertheless, there has been some disagreement in the litearture on the advantages and disadvantages of the use of of e-learning in VET. Besides, some studies recently reported a decline in enthusiasm about the effects of e-learning in companies. In order to closely examine the effects of e-learning in VET, we conduct a literature review. We then carry out a discussion of the pros and cons with the aim of developing suggestions for the better use of e-learning in VET. The results of the litearture review show that learners and providers of e-learning benefit from it in different ways. In order to minimise the risks involved in using e-learning, a mixture of online and face-to-face events could be used, and adjusted pedagogical concepts should be designed and developed explicitly for e-learning.