Online and blended learning in vocational training institutions in South Korea

Abstract

This study aims to explore the current status of using e-learning in vocational training institutions in South Korea and the institutions’ intent to adopt e-learning or blended learning. A total of 116 responses to an online survey were received from the instructors and administrators in vocational training institutions. The findings of the study are summarized as follows. First, e-learning content was found mostly used as supplementary materials in blended or classroom learning. Second, the main reasons for not using e-learning were related to the low training effectiveness in e-learning and the difficulty of finding appropriate e-learning content. Third, the dominant reasons that vocational training institutions believed they might need e-learning were related to content reuse and e-learning flexibility. Fourth, National Competency Standards-based content, theory-focused content, and practice alternative content were found to be most useful e-learning content in vocational training institutions. Fifth, the most preferred type of e-learning content was smaller modules developed for learning specific knowledge or skills. Lastly, vocational training institutions were found to be hesitant about using e-learning in the future because of the lower training effectiveness in e-learning and the lack of interaction among learners and instructors in e-learning contexts. Suggestions for practitioners and researchers are provided on the basis of the findings.