Supporting placement‐based learning using networked technologies

The growth in the use of networked technologies provides educators with mechanisms to add value to learning experiences where learners and educators are geographically distributed. Increasingly, placements are used within the more vocational disciplines to provide students with a reflective learning experience within the context of the work environment. Such remote learning can be supported through the use of networked technology, enabling a high degree of interactivity and helping learners to enhance their learning styles. A case study is presented that considers the design and implementation of such networked support, focusing on the learner’s evaluation of this experience. The results from this study identify that networked technologies, such as audio conferencing and Web‐based support, have a beneficial role in the learning experience, and that considerable advantages can be derived from their use for placement‐based learners.