Government launches new e-Learning Strategy Task Force

Estelle Morris, the Education and Skills Secretary, has announced a new e-Learning Strategy Task Force as part of the Government's drive to increase skills, including in IT, in the UK.

The Task Force will be led by Steve Morrison of Granada Plc. and will look at how e-learning can enhance and improve learning opportunities for college students and people participating in the Government's 'lifelong learning' scheme, over the internet.

Estelle Morris said: "The potential for e-Learning is enormous, and we are already seeing the many benefits in our schools. It is equally important that we explore the opportunities that ICT offers for those young people in colleges and lifelong learning. The Task Force will bring together representatives from industry and education to discuss ideas and I look forward to receiving its report later on in the year."

Steve Morrison, the Strategy Task Force's Chairman, added: "In the vast and variable world of post-compulsory education, e-learning can provide an even more vital tool for raising standards than it does in the school classroom. Through the use of multimedia we aim to find ways to widen participation, support students and staff and raise educational standards.

"We will deliver an e-learning strategy to the Secretary of State by rigorously examining what's currently going on, and recommending enhancements. The Group is consulting with other educational advisory bodies to see how they can help us deliver a comprehensive strategy."

--

Richard Powell, UKTECH