E-Learning Platform for Education Innovation: A Case for Botswana

This article intends to investigate the challenges of e-learning implementation with an emphasis on education innovation. The Botswana government imports technology rather than developing it in-house through or in association with a well-developed national research and development (R&D) centre. In simple terms, e-learning is the delivery of education or teaching by electronic means. This technological change puts pressure on leaders and policy makers. This research will enable researchers to provide scientific advice to stakeholders on the use of e-learning as a platform for education innovation in Botswana. In spite of limited access to computers, technophobia and slow network connection, e-learning can be a very useful tool in its flexibility and provision of self-directed learning. A variety of teaching and learning methods can be applied towards the development of the individual. The general objective of this study was to determine employee awareness of the influence and abilities, as well as limitations, of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for advancing a personal, active, open, collaborative and lifelong learning process. A survey of employees at both management and technical levels from industry was conducted, asking the importance in terms of being a lifelong learner of characteristics such as technical competence, analytical and creative thinking skills, the desire to enquire, and the impact of technology at work, at home and in society, among other things. How well these factors were offered in the technical education that was acquired at tertiary level was also rated.