E-Learning and Knowledge Management

In today’s knowledge-based economy and society, modern, effective education and training systems are vital to everything from economic competitiveness to individual occupational aptitude. Realizing human potential is an important success factor for both, individuals and businesses. In order to succeed in such a knowledge-based economy people have to obtain knowledge and skills necessary to cope with continuous change in their private and professional lives. Not only technical skills related to new and evolving technologies are crucial in this respect. Also the so-called soft skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and team work are of increasing significance.

People are faced with changing concepts for training, too. New technologies and tools provide greater flexibility, easier access to information and the opportunity to match learning to specific, individual needs and circumstances. Information and communications technologies (ICT), such as the Internet, mobile communications, Ambient Intelligence, and virtual environments, create possibilities to support learning in new ways. Along goes the growing importance for a systematic provision of access to knowledge wherever and whenever needed.

The management of knowledge as an asset and the development and support of the knowledge, information and communication channels are crucial to the economic success of any organization. Therefore the linking of such knowledge management concepts with adequate E-Learning strategies is of increasing importance. The INI-GraphicsNet members are engaged in various related projects, dealing with new and innovative solutions for E-Learning and Knowledge Management.