4th generation innovation approach to IT education: integration of supply chain, knowledge management and business intelligence with the learning organization

The successful implementation of a leading edge IT training strategy requires a flexible, multi-pronged, 4th generation innovative approach to both instruction and IT learning. The process incorporates intelligent innovative actions, particularly involving action learning, knowledge management, business intelligence, supply chain integration, affiliates, partnerships, external feedback loops, and the like. Learning, developed and provided by the skilled instructors, is a key success factor. A 4th generation learning framework model is presented. This model, developed and tested over the past eight years, provides a framework to build and maintain a sustainable leading edge IT training facility. This learning process is stimulated by the IT manager. It becomes a dynamic, exciting, learning environment. Instructors and students learn collaboratively, and at rapid rates. The 4th generation learning framework model’s knowledge management system (integral to the information system used) has two key points of reference - a lens that captures all the input parameters (external forces supply chain and internal forces), and the learning outcomes achieved. The supply chain (external forces) provides additional input and direction to help ‘make a difference’. The lens focuses these sets of forces into a quality information system. The business intelligence system produces high quality, outcomes based, learning solutions. This knowledge management system is designed to be responsive to the emerging global challenges and to build these factors into it’s an ever improving and responsive focussing system – or learning organization. Each parameter of the knowledge management system is vital to the overall success of the learning organization. This 4th generation learning framework model is applicable to secondary and tertiary levels. It is also a general framework and can be applied to other areas beyond IT – for example in the science arena, the business arena, the engineering arena, and the like. If applied strategically it can greatly enhance the learning process and the achieved outcomes.