Social media: key tools for the future of work-based learning

Purpose - This paper aims to demonstrate the potential of web 2.0 tools in the online support of work-based learners.Design methodology approach - The paper provides an overview of the current use and benefits of web 2.0 tools in the support of work-based learners. It includes two case studies that demonstrate, first, how action research is testing the boundaries of online technologies as new tools and functionality emerge and, second, how work-based learning support staff are being trained to use such tools. These case studies are illustrations of how institutions in South Wales, UK are seeking to exploit the benefits of web 2.0 technologies in their drive to improve the support of work-based learners.Findings - The outcomes of the work described in this paper showed that the use of web 2.0 tools enabled online support of work-based learners to include remote access to practical work. It also describes how work-based learning support staff are being trained in the use of the new technologies.Practical implications - There are significant practical implications in this paper. It shows how online distance learning support for work-based learners can include remote access to practical work through the use of web 2.0 tools. This has always been a problem for the distance learning support of vocational subjects and indicates that such support will continue to improve as new web 2.0 functionality emerges.Originality value - The original value in the paper is: the remote access to practical work for work-based learners using web 2.0 tools; and the online support of WBL trainers in their use of web 2.0 tools