e-Learning in Industry: New Zealand Case Studies

Abstract or Summary

This report describes case studies in a range of industries, identified in this report as Case Studies A, B, C, D, E and F. These qualitative studies are designed to complement the reports generated in phases one and two of the "Using e-learning to build workforce capability: A review of activities" research project funded by the Ministry of Education. Advocates of qualitative research point out that case studies produce more detailed information and inferences than that available through statistical analyses. Moreover, while statistical methods might be able to deal with situations where behaviour is homogeneous and routine, case studies are able to deal with factors like creativity, innovation, and context. In contrast to quantitative techniques, case studies involve the collection and presentation of detailed information about a particular participant or small group. Therefore, conclusions drawn from case studies are “snap-shots in time