The Web Learning System of Virtual EBMS: A Tool Supporting Unstructured and Just in Time Learning

Abstract

In the era of the Global, Digital and Knowledge-based Economy, a just-in-time access to learning content, as well as an efficient way to access increasingly distributed knowledge sources, is required in order to solve the problem of 'knowledge obsolescence'. In this scenario, traditional web learning systems are no longer adequate and need a strong integration with Knowledge Management (KM) systems, in order to trigger just-in-time/at workplace/customised/on-demand and unstructured learning processes, in place of an old-fashioned time/place/content predefined ones. In this paper, we describe the main pillars underpinning an innovative approach to web learning based on the above-mentioned principles. Moreover, we provide a detailed representation of the web learning component of 'Virtual eBMS', a web-based system designed and implemented at the e-Business Management Section of the Scuola Superiore ISUFI, University of Salento (Italy). In particular, we describe the content-oriented and the service-oriented perspectives of the implemented system by highlighting its innovative elements with respect to a traditional web learning system.

Keywords: web learning, knowledge management, unstructured learning, just-in-time, JIT learning, organisational memory, virtual organisations, e-business, electronic business, business management

JEL Classification: I2, O3