Document Type
Report
Keywords
[ECUPub], internet, education, managers, small business, skills development, computer, technology, e-learning
Publisher
Small and Medium Enterprise Research Centre, Edith Cowan University
Place of Publication
Perth, Western Australia
School
Small and Medium Enterprise Research Centre
Abstract
This research aimed to explore the appropriateness of on-line training delivery methods for small business owner/managers.
It is widely recognised that training and education are effective ways to reduce small business failure. In Australia, small business accounts for 96 percent of Australian private sector, non-agricultural businesses and they employ 47 percent of the private sector, non-agricultural workforce. Not surprisingly then, encouraging the development of the skills of the workforce has emerged as a major priority for government policy. However, what is also recognised is that many small business owner/managers (SBOs) have limited e-competencies.
Results of this research confirmed this and also demonstrated that SBOs have a poor understanding of the concept of on-line training. It would appear, therefore, that many SBOs first need to acquire the technical skills to enable them to undertake on-line training and they also need a better understanding of what is possible through this method of training delivery.
Comments
Walker, B., Webster, B., & Stoney, S. (2005) On-line training for SMEs: final report. Perth, Australia: Small and Medium Enterprise Research Centre, Edith Cowan University.