Society to pilot e-learning modules

Five-week trial for cross section of profession prior to planned March launch

News, 19 December 2005

The Law Society of Scotland is to pilot a series of e-learning modules in the new year.

More than 30 solicitors from across the profession are expected to take part in the trial, which will run for five weeks starting in January 2006.

The project has been set up by Update, the Society's conference and training arm, in conjunction with Livingston-based legal online information suppliers, Legal Data Solutions. It will provide participants with the opportunity to try three modules during the five weeks and provide feedback on the content, presentation and any technical aspects.

The three trial modules are prevention of money laundering, stress management and financial management.

The Society is also working with Capability Scotland during the trial period to ensure that the modules will meet the needs of people with disabilities who want to access them.

Iona Ritchie, director of Update, said: "E-learning will allow busy solicitors who might otherwise have to take an entire day out to travel to a conference or seminar the chance to set their own CPD training timetable and fit it into their existing work schedule.

"We have had an excellent response from solicitors from across the legal profession, including those from large, central belt firms, small rural practices and the in-house and public sector, who want to take part in the trial to ensure that the new e-learning initiative will meet the needs of every solicitor who would want to use it.

"This is a very exciting new project. It develops what we are already doing in providing training using DVDs but taking it one step further and maximising flexible learning opportunities for solicitors throughout Scotland. Once the pilot is completed we hope to roll out an ongoing e-learning programme from March next year."

Roy Flett, CEO of Legal Data Solutions, said: "I'm sure online training will prove popular across the whole profession. This is a visionary initiative, combining knowledge and technology for the convenience and wider benefit of all."