Log on to learning

Published on 01 Feb 2005

Introducing Callnet, a Community Grid for Learning

In the old days distance learning was about switching on a television in the small hours of the morning to watch a long haired professor explain molecular science from a black board for the Open University. Today the internet has made e-learning accessible, even exciting, at a time and place that suits the learner.

NICVA is developing the CALLnet project for the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland to promote life long learning via the internet. The project supplements Labour’s idea of a National Grid for Learning for schools by creating a Community Grid for Learning.

CALLnet will be a portal website that functions as a directory of training and learning opportunities based on the needs of local communities. It will act as a gateway for courses, volunteering opportunities, jobs, facilities, local events and best practice.

The project is being constructed by NICVA in partnership with community organisations and charities across Northern Ireland who represent different areas of learning. Among its users, CALLnet hopes to include those living in disadvantaged and remote areas who have limited experience of e-learning or access to training facilities in their area.

IT skills will also be encouraged in the sector as a result of CALLnet. NICVA is introducing IT training, as well as a designing a ‘mini-site’ for each project partner which will enable them to promote their services online. With even the youngest members of our society now able to log on, CALLnet is helping to get the voluntary and community sector online.

For more information about the project email callnet@nicva.org