3 April 2003 Media Statement
Government to inject $28m into tertiary e-learning projects
The government is to invest $28m in e-learning developments in the tertiary education sector, Associate Education
(Tertiary Education) Minister Steve Maharey said today.
The establishment of the E-Learning Collaborative Development Fund comes on top of $9.8m set aside in the 2002 budget to
enable the tertiary education sector to develop e-learning capability and will be used to fund capital projects over the
next four years. It follows the recommendations of the E-Learning Advisory Group’s which reported to government last
year.
Speaking at an industry training organisations e-learning workshop, Steve Maharey said the government wants to ensure
tertiary providers are able to take advantage of technology-assisted tools that enhance student learning.
“E-learning provides many challenges – we’re talking about more than computers. We’re talking about our students being
equipped with the skills to participate in an innovative New Zealand.
“The capital funding announced today will ensure that tertiary providers can adopt e-learning tools as part of the range
of teaching resources they have available. Computer and web-based learning is not an end in itself, but is is an
increasing powerful learning tool.
“Industry training organisations are amongst a group of tertiary organisations that are already showing how e-learning
can be used. Examples include:
- the Plumbing ITO’s development of a training package on core skills in the construction industry, including safe
working practices and tool use; and
- an e-learning training programme for workplace tutors supporting trainees in the seafood industry developed by the
Seafood ITO.
“The E-Learning Collaborative Development Fund will support a wide take-up of technology-based learning tools across the
whole post-school education system,” Steve Maharey said.
ENDS