E-learning as a training tool for civil servants: A case in the state of Parana - Brazil

Abstract

The distance education (DE) modality evolves as new Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are developed and based on the methodologies that are being used in the media dissemination of information, educational institutions and organizations take ownership of these innovations to promote their teaching processes. One of the methods that have achieved prominence is how e-learning, which is also called educational computer or online education, is conducted by the internet - synchronously or asynchronously, eliminating the figure of the pedagogical mediator in real time. This article aims to answer the main question: What is the perception of Parana civil servants, which undertake the distance e-learning methodology post-graduate programs in relation to the use of technologies and materials. The surveys of the study were 670 civil servants from Parana state, students of the post-graduation basis course in Public Management in e-learning methodology, which stems from Parana State Government's partnership with a federal institution of vocational and technological education. The research was conducted by using qualitative and quantitative approach, descriptive and questionnaire application method survey, containing 12 closed questions. The main results show that there is high familiarity and acceptance to e-learning. On the other hand, the use of teaching materials evidenced conservatism and attachment to printed learning materials, highlighting the printed book as a key to distance learning.