e-Learning provides the abilty for users to learn from their PC without the need to travel to a school, college or learning centre. The learning materials are contained in a software application known by a number of names including a Virtual Learning Environment, Course Management System or Managed Learning Environment. There are a number of commercial and Open Source products available including WebCT, Blackborad and Moodle, which offer various features and benefits to different users.

Apperception is able to provide expert advice and guidance on the selection of such systems. As a Training Provider ourselves and as an organisation who has helped other organisations implement such systems, we have first hand knowledge and understanding of the systems. We have also designed and implemented e-Leaning training courses that use the many features offered by such systems, including :

• access to training courses over the Internet using web based interfaces
• student enrolement keys to ensure that only students registered by their trainer can access the course
• interactive quizes and chat forums to ensure that students interact with the system and with trainers and fellow students
• online assessments and surveys to check the progress and satisfaction of the students
• staged progression, to ensure that students only progress to the next level when they have achieved the standard required
• use of audio, video and simulation software to provide content-rich material to learn from

All of the above go to ensure that the learning experience is an enjoyable one but the learning or training provider also needs to administer the students on their programmes and each e_Learning environment has a range of tools in this area too.

Finally, despite all of the above, many students still want to talk to a trainer who provide support and guidance. Whilst a visit to the nearest learning centre may be required, Apperception has extensive experience in the use of desktop conferencing to satisfy this need. From their PC, the learner can see and speak to their trainer located in the learning centre and they can even view same page of the e-Leanring system as the learner tries to use it. This provides considerable support and confidence to the learner. See the BB4L video for an example of this approach.