Online training nets win for TAFE

Tuesday, 8 June, 1999 - 22:00
OFFERING training over the Internet nearly won the West Coast College of TAFE an award in the education division of the recent Information Technology and Telecommunications Awards.

Its Hospitality Internet Project takes training to hospitality industry apprentices via the Internet so they do not have to leave their workplaces.

It also means students in remote areas are not denied training.

Online Technology Unit manager Frank Bate said one student completed his studies while on holiday in the UK.

“By logging on to the Internet through a browser in Hastings library, the student was able to interact with the lecturer and other learners and complete his studies,” Mr Bate said.

Unlike the usual text-based material currently on the web, Hospitality Internet Program combines web-based developments including video and audio streaming, virtual reality simulations using digital camera technology; and the use of live chat and self-paced learning materials.

The project has quickly gained national and international recognition. Training providers in Malaysia have entered into discussions with the college to deliver the training through a Malaysian-based server. OFFERING training over the Internet nearly won the West Coast College of TAFE an award in the education division of the recent Information Technology and Telecommunications Awards.

Its Hospitality Internet Project takes training to hospitality industry apprentices via the Internet so they do not have to leave their workplaces.

It also means students in remote areas are not denied training.

Online Technology Unit manager Frank Bate said one student completed his studies while on holiday in the UK.

“By logging on to the Internet through a browser in Hastings library, the student was able to interact with the lecturer and other learners and complete his studies,” Mr Bate said.

Unlike the usual text-based material currently on the web, Hospitality Internet Program combines web-based developments including video and audio streaming, virtual reality simulations using digital camera technology; and the use of live chat and self-paced learning materials.

The project has quickly gained national and international recognition. Training providers in Malaysia have entered into discussions with the college to deliver the training through a Malaysian-based server.