TECHNOLOGY SKILLS FOR A NEW JOB ROLE: E-LEARNING MANAGER

Objectives: Our main objective is to report some results of a Leonardo da Vinci programme entitled E-Learning Manager ELM. In this article we analyze the perception of European learning professionals regarding several technology skill elements needed in an e-learning environment. Prior work: The advance of technology solutions triggers a need for a continuous improvement of e-learning solutions. Still, ensuring "that e-learning facilitates the acquisition of knowledge and skills can be challenging if the e-learning teams cannot assert competency in creative applications of instructional design, learning theories and technology" (Waight and Steward, 2005:337). McPherson and Nunes (2006) found that technological issues are amongst the most important critical success factors for e-learning implementation in higher-education. Design/Methodology/Approach: Based on extensive literature review and the results of the first meeting the project members identified six technology skill elements regarding e-learning: technological basics; tools; content; platforms; how to provide e-learning and emerging e-learning trends. A questionnaire was used to collect 52 European learning professional's perception regarding the importance, extent of use and possibilities of improvement of technological competences in an e-learning scenario. Results/Acknowledgements: The responses indicated by the respondents allowed us establish that: the learning professionals admit the importance of technological aspects for e-learning; use such knowledge, but feel there is a gap between the level of knowledge required and possessed. Also, they consider that a greater knowledge would have a beneficial effect on their job role. The results of the questionnaire were used in the content development process of the courses and in the design of the skill card tested on the ECQA learning portal. Implications: The results of the questionnaire were used in the design of the skill card and the subsequent content development process of courses available on the ECQA learning portal. Through this portal the e-learning manager job role is available for practitioners and academics. After taking the course the candidate who passes an exam will be certified as e-learning manager. Originality Value: The originality of the article lies in the fact that it provides a unique examination of the European learning professional's perception regarding the implications of technology in the design, implementation, use and upgrade of e-learning initiatives.