Developing the architecture of a large-scale informal e-learning network

Abstract

This paper reviews the architectural design of an e-learning network (Nonprofit e-Learning Network) designed specifically for the broad Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS). The project is aimed at the majority of the VCS who, because of cost or time concerns, or for other reasons, make little or no use of traditional formal approaches to learning or even access short training courses. The central educational philosophy of the network is based on informal learning, but as the design proceeded it became clear that formal learning would need to be combined with less formal elements. This led to the development of an architecture based around three "zones" covering a range of informal and formal learning approaches.