Pattern-based approaches to introducing new technologies in vocational training

Abstract

Vocational training is much more dependent on external factors and thus much less self-contained than education and instruction in general public schools. Based on experience gathered in recent projects, the potential of using innovative web-based technologies to support teachers and students in this complex situation are illustrated and discussed. As for the technologies, the focus is on web 2.0 approaches, thus facilitating the creation and sharing of content on the part teachers and learners. From an educational design point of view, a special focus is the support of teachers through “pedagogical patterns” accompanied by empowering them to better manage and share web resources in their teaching. Issues of organizational culture and change management turn out to be decisive for the success of such approaches.