Elearning means training based on computer technology delivered to the learner via the internet with password access. ElderWorld elearning courses are delivered via a platform called a Learning Management System (LMS). This means that the trainer or Care Home manager can also access to the learner’s course results. The LMS can provide detailed information on what the carer has learned and where more training is needed. Elearning can be delivered as a stand-alone course or as part of a blended learning package. All ElderWorld courses are SCORM compliant which means that all courses can be run on any system.

There are five important advantages to our elearning:

• All content has been authored by recognised experts and validated/accredited by national institutions
• A variety of challenging interactive activities combined with quality content makes e-learning interesting, memorable and therefore a proven, effective method of training
• The courses are designed to enable easy monitoring and audit which is of value when dealing with regulators and inspectors
• Validated and Accredited courses form the basis of a recognised series of programmes that provide career opportunities for the carer
• Our courses conform with ongoing legislational requirements which in turn leads to best practice and above all, improves quality of care

Our authors are experts you will recognise

Experts commissioned by ElderWorld are recognised as qualified and experienced in their field. For example, our Prevention of Falls programme was written with Dr Peter Overstall, a highly regarded senior Geriatrician. We have also completed a blended learning package on caring for someone with dementia: this was created by the well-known dementia training expert, Beth Noray. It includes a five part elearning course and supplementary workbook.

All courses are validated/accredited

All our courses are checked and rechecked by a variety of specialists and trainers. We understand that peer review validates the quality of the content. Accreditation is achieved through collaboration with a higher or further education institution during production. For example, ElderWorld has the support of several universities in ongoing projects. Furthermore, we are now collaborating with HE@Work.

A creative approach to training

From clearly designed ‘bullet points’ of information to interactive games and challenges, it is the variety of interaction combined with quality content that makes elearning interesting and effective. This creative approach to training is more succesful because it can engage all of the learner's senses thus reinforcing the learning process. A balanced elearning course will include a variety of online drag-and-click activities as tools to complement the course content along the way.

Each course is concluded with a short test, which consolidates knowledge whilst creating a record of the learner’s progress. At any point in the course the learner can return to a stage earlier in the programme for a quick reminder before reattempting the final test. The successful completion of each part of the course will boost confidence and motivate the learner to complete the course and look forward to the next.

Training at your convenience

A useful characteristic of e-learning is that the learner can connect from any computer, at any internet-enabled location and access the course with their password. If the learner needs to pause their training - for example, to start their next shift at the Care Home or to collect the children from school, the course can be stopped and resumed at any point.  This flexibility also means the course is available to everyone who needs training. With new staff joining care organisations all the time, it is a significant advantage that learners can start on day one rather than wait many weeks for the next group training session.

The opportunity for a career

Elearning gives every carer the opportunity to improve their prospects without taking time out of work to attend college or a series of training courses. Intense media coverage and public concern for the care of older people is nudging governments to act. Training is not only essential to improve the care of older people but it provides carers with the opportunity to develop a portfolio of training achieved which will improve their prospects as a carer.