Walking the e-walk: Lifelong learning for all

Abstract

In 2005 the Centre for Career and Personal Development at Canterbury Christ Church University designed a Certificate in Careers Education and Guidance course delivered by e-learning. The course is aimed at people involved in careers work in schools, many of whom are qualified teachers, and it began in October of that year. This paper will present an evaluation study of the experiences of one group of students who completed the course that year. It will begin with a discussion of the rationale for the course itself and its design in relation to the theory and practice of e-learning and continuing professional development. This will be followed by a critique of the qualitative methodology of the study and an analysis of the data gathered. It will conclude with recommendations for schools and others involved in education who may wish to encourage their staff to engage in CPD through e-learning, and for universities who may wish to develop such provision.