E-learning Does Not Equal Knowledge Management
- Dr. Moria Levy
- Dec 1, 2000
- 2 min read
Parallel to the development of the knowledge management world, the distance learning sector is also evolving. To an outside reader examining marketing articles on distance learning, as well as to a visitor at exhibitions, the impression is created that knowledge management is just another layer in the distance learning world. Distance learning professionals also try to claim this crown. Below are several aspects of the differences between the two:
Objectives: The main objectives of distance learning are:
Financial savings, resulting from the one-time investment in preparing training and its repeated reuse, and from reducing travel/accommodation costs;
The possibility of conducting learning when required.
The main objectives of knowledge management, on the other hand, are:
Ongoing operational assistance resulting from repeated use of knowledge over time and its multiple use by different people.
A means for future growth. The difference in objectives is significant and, therefore, dictates different means and emphases for implementation.
Division of roles:
The division of roles in distance learning is well-defined. The teacher (or organization) teaches, and the student (or employee) learns. In knowledge management, the opposite is true. There is no single focus for knowledge. Knowledge sharing is not only from all expert employees, but also from employees who contribute even just a single "tip." Everyone who teaches is also a candidate for learning.
"The group":
Distance learning focuses on the individual's ability to access knowledge, independent of the group. Knowledge management indeed advocates for computerized means that assist in knowledge management, but always includes aspects of people sharing, even in real-world ways (and not just virtually). Knowledge management is a "Social Phenomenon."
Content repository:
Distance learning is based on materials prepared through "concentrated effort," and they undergo a process of processing, filtering, and approval. Knowledge management sanctifies routine documents. Those that are updated daily do not require approval and filtering, but represent the ongoing thought content of their creator, the employee, during their work. In distance learning, content represents truth as of the date of its preparation; in knowledge management, the content is a living repository.
We have provided several technical aspects here, but it is quite easy to distinguish that these are two different subjects, with a partial but small overlap. What is recommended? To utilize all distance learning products for the knowledge management repository, and to build the distance learning infrastructure based on products already stored in the knowledge repositories. This, too, is a method for reuse.
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