5.b.+Wiki+Application+Discussion+(week+8)

Use the wiki to create a short executive summary that could be attached to the short report from the E-Learning Discussion!
 * Link to the instructions

**EXECUTIVE SUMMARY** This report investigates and analyzes the merits of implementing online learning courses for Paper Products, Inc. employees. **Online Learning Reduces Training Costs** Online learning is a cost-effective investment that enhances employee's educational background, which in turn is a driver of profitability. E-learning is a quick and inexpensive tool that reduces companies training expenditures and travel time in comparison with other educational tools. Case studies of well-known companies in various industries such as IBM, General Motors, and McDonald's have demonstrated successfully applied e-learning in their training programs. IBM saved $350 million last year by changing the traditional face-to-face learning to online learning. The advantages of distance learning comes in both monetary bonuses as well as saved foot-time. **Online learning and It's Effectiveness** E- learning also known as online or distance learning, is becoming increasingly popular within business. There is a multitude of advantages for organizations who choose to employ e-learning within their culture. Beyond the flexibility that online learning presents, it also provides companies with a cost-effective method to further their employee's education. From a strategic standpoint, the empowering of employees by allowing them to take ownership of their education/training will keep them engaged further as well as create a more qualified workforce within the organization.

**Popularity of Online Learning is Rising** Corporate e-learning has flared into a $2.3 billion market making it one of the fastest-growing segments of the education industry. Enrollment in courses offered online by post secondary institutions is expected to increase in 2014 to // seven // million students. More than one third of the $50 billion spent on employee training every year is spent on e-learning. There are three alternatives for e-learning beginning with the most expensive:
 * Designing and developing e-courses specific to the company's needs
 * Customizing already developed e-courses
 * Buying generic e-courses that encompass such topics as basic business ethics

**Online Learning Meets Employees' Interests** Many employees are eager to advance their education in order to meet career goals. Online courses open up new horizons for working adults who often find it difficult to juggle conventional classes with jobs and families. Internet based education is appealing to many employees seeking education advancement because the lack of commute makes it more economical. For many employees studying at home is optimal and the time saved can be allocated for other purposes. Unlike traditional learning methods, e-learning conveniently allows employees to learn at a pace they are comfortable with. Online learning presents a flexible environment sequentially allowing employees to manage personal and work life successfully. Financial savings is an additional benefit in comparison to traditional training methods. **Improving Effectiveness of Online Learning** E-learning has some disadvantages compared with traditional face-to-face learning that can be minimized by a thorough training and development program.By breaking the curriculum up into short chunks with interactive features that allow the students to demonstrate what they have learned, will allow the online learner to be more successful.The high dropout rate of learners can be reduced by providing employees with home access to online courses. The educational program must provide employees with a degree, certificate and/or college credit from an accredited institution. Employees must have technical and student support via different communication channels. Accountability is a key factor in the persistence and success of e-learning and is imperative that managers supervise e-learning by developing a culture that observes the importance of online learning as serious as classroom training. In addition, employees should be recognized for their educational accomplishments.

As employees seek advancement in education and companies profit from the implementation of e-learning the effort to implement online learning proves to be strategic. As the industry continues to grow the alterations and areas of attention can be perfected as needed. E-learning will allow for the company to adapt to the constantly changing market demands while ensuring that all individuals are presented with uniform training and information. It is evident that any major issues within e-learning can be restructured to best fit the needs of both the company and the employee(s). As forty-seven percent of college students are engaged in online learning the growth of the practice is unmistakable. E-learning is the safeguard for a competitive future.