More organisations are using e-learning, claims study

E-learning has topped a list of the most used form of modern learning technology in and industry benchmarking survey.

In a survey of 600 international organisations involved in the learning and development of its staff, distance courses provided through e-learning accounted for 89 per cent of the top technologies used by companies, according to the 2011 benchmark study by Towards Maturity.

The education research company claimed in preliminary findings that 72 per cent of the companies that responded believe learning technologies will help them respond faster to a changing business environment. This accounted for 10 per cent more than in 2010.

Many believe that increased usage of virtual learning facilities will also help them increase their productivity overall as well as assist them in organisational changes and in complying with new regulations.

Managing director of the UK-based research firm Laura Overton said that she was "delighted" by the number of organisation that had contributed - 50 per cent more than last year.

While the majority were from the private sector (at 57 per cent, with 40 per cent being multinationals), 13 per cent identified themselves as not-for-profit groups, demonstrating the wide appeal e-learning has across the business community.

"The sector has a strong understanding of the importance of its relationship with IT if it is going to move forward," Ms Overton told People Management.

She added that despite the relatively small number of respondents from the sector, such organisations are well versed in collaborating and learning from each other "and sharing their experience is going to accelerate their knowledge".

One such industry, the security sector, has recently seen an e-learning version of the Security Institute's respected industry qualification launched in risk management and security issues.

Currently a BTEC Level Five Professional Diploma or a Level Three Advanced Certificate, the qualification will be launched later this year in conjunction with Blackburn College as part of its foundation degree in security management.