Distance and e-learning as challenges for Lithuanian agricultural institutions in vocational education and training

Abstract

The Govermment of the Respublic of Lithuania has always been emphasizing the development of information society as a top priory development area. The creation of the conditions is necessary for the development of information society is one of the key factors for economic growth. Key factor for economic growth is high qualification specialists whose proper preparation in a current depopulation situation is not possible without well-developedlife long learning (LLL) system. e-Learning is one of the most convenient forms of Vocational Education andTraining (VET) for employers, employees and definite part of uneployed. This blended way of learning has an advantage providing the possibility to adapt learning time, place and pace to the personal needs. This is specially beneficial to more remote areas by improving their access to higher level and quality training delivered by the educational and training institutions located in the regional centres. Most of e-Learning initiatives and programmes as well as Lithuanian Distance Education Network (LieDM) are based on Academic and Research Network in Lithuania (LITNET) financed by the state.