The design of an interactive tool to match technology with e-learning pedagogy

M.Ed. (Computer-Based Education)Lifelong learning is the process by which individuals consciously acquire formal, non-formal or informal education throughout their life spans for personal development or career advancement (European Commission, 2001:9). It is an important element in facing the challenges of globalisation, competitiveness and employment and is being increasingly recognised by countries such as the United States and those comprising the European Union as a means of helping people to acquire the knowledge, competencies, skills and confidence they need in order to participate fully in society (Kessels& Katus, 2003). Lifelong learning has become such an important process that governmental ministers for lifelong learning have been appointed, such as in Wales (Henry, 2000:24). Many adult learners have difficulty attending lectures due to factors such as distance from the educational institution, work commitments and the set time constraints of lectures. Increasingly, such students cannot afford the time entailed in taking traditional instruction (Quinn, 2001). Formal lifelong learning for these particular learners requires the flexibility of learning at the discretion of the learner in any location, such as at work or in their own homes, and at anytime - it must be time and space independent