The effectiveness of digital learning in the workplace as a form of training in an Irish context

Dooley, Sinéad (2022) The effectiveness of digital learning in the workplace as a form of training in an Irish context. Masters thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

Purpose: This research aims to assess whether digital learning is an effective method of training for organizations to use in Ireland. To determine this three types of learning methods are explored which are as follows: Informal learning, formal learning, and blended learning. The emergence of COVID-19 has shaped the way in which companies do business. This research also aims to study if COVID-19 has affected the way in which organizations conduct training. Alongside this, the study aims to determine if digital learning is suitable for all abilities and generations in the workplace.

Literature: Literature reviewed displays how digital learning and traditional learning can be both effective and have limitations for organisations whilst using it as a learning tool in the workplace. Literature also suggests that digital learning has been impacted by COVID-19 and the emergence of the different generations into the workplace which means there are many ages and abilities that must be catered for in terms of training.

Methodology: A quantitative approach was undertaken as part of the primary research for this study. This involved interviewing five participants from the HR industry. All five participants have worked or are currently working in the training and development sector within the organizations they work for. The interviews took a semi-structured approach and were conducted via zoom.

Findings: Findings reported that there was not one correct way to conduct training more it is important to take into the characteristics and the context of the organsation. All five participant's stated the preferred method of training in the workplace is a blended approach. Additionally, participants stated how covid-19 has changed the working culture in the organsation alongside the way in which employees learn.

Limitations: The main limitation to this study was the sample size as there was time frame constraints which limited the researcher to interviewing only five participants. Due to all interviews being conducted during working hours the participants were limited to the time they could give to the study.

Conclusion: Research participants employed state that the most effective way for learning to be conducted in the workplace is through a blended approach which suits all industries and abilities in the workforce.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Subjects:	L Education > LC Special aspects / Types of education > Blended Learning L Education > LC Special aspects / Types of education > E-Learning D History General and Old World > DA Great Britain > Ireland H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management > Human Resource Management > Training and Development
Divisions:	School of Business > Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
Depositing User:	Clara Chan
Date Deposited:	17 Nov 2022 17:54
Last Modified:	21 Nov 2022 17:01
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/5864

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