Discipline specific e-training for trades tutors: Integrating theory with practice using e-technologies

Abstract or Summary

The main challenges for teachers integrating e-learning into their practice to create blended learning environments are overcoming a fear of technology and the impact on their workload. For many teachers, it is this fear that sits behind resistance to facilitating learning activities online (Stacey & Gerbic, 2008). Providing on-going professional development for staff, in addition to the staff-release time necessary for them to engage in such training, is seen as a vital element in overcoming resistance and facilitating successful e-learning and blended environments (Clegg, Konrad & Tan, 2000; McCarney, 2004; Shepard, 2004; Stacey & Gerbic, 2008).