MOODLE Platform: A case of ﬂexible corporate learning in the ﬁnancial sector in Sierra leone

In the current age of technology which is supported by flexible (hand-held) devices like iPad, the use of learning platforms such as MOODLE can support virtual learning through synchronization with available technologies like effective [fibre-optic] network system. In addition to it being a good platform for academic learning, its use is now becoming widespread in the corporate environment, more so for Compliance Training in areas like banking and insurance sectors. In developing countries like Sierra Leone where resources are limited, effective corporate governance can be addressed by ensuring people are conversant with their organisational compliance policies through access to MOODLE Managed Learning Environment [MLE]. There is a myth concerning MOODLE’S confined use in the academic environment, but this work will explore its relevance in an environment not so common in the working practices of staff professional engagement and learning in the corporate environment. Discussion is focused in the financial sector where demand on work is preventing employees and even those charged with governance from engaging themselves in activities supposedly meant to enhance their understanding of professional working practices, for example, addressing risks and compliance measures.


INTRODUCTION
In the current age of technology which is supported by flexible (hand-held) devices like iPad for example, the use of Managed Learning Environments [MLEs] / platforms of various sort can be used to support virtual learning through synchronisation with available technologies. The advent of modern technology has made it possible for new terminologies to be added in the discourse of professional undertakings. In this cases, use of words like Managed Learning Environment [MLE], Virtual Learning Environment [VLE], Technology Enhanced Learning [TEL] and many more have become the terminologies of everyday language for people engaged in virtual space of work, be it for formal learning or other means of collaboration like video conferencing and blogging.
All around the world, E-learning is becoming widespread and not only in the academia where its usage is the common ground for enhanced teaching and learning, but corporate organisations such as legal, medical and financial institutions are also embracing it as a way of improving knowledge of people in the dynamic world of technological advances [1][12]. The pace of MLE is expediting the speedy globalisation of institutions through enhanced virtual collaboration features present. It is now possible for users to improve their learning opportunities without being physically present in a classroom situation. An approach used by most established organisations to gauge performance management of employees, without having to watch them all throughout the time as all activities or tasks performed on MLE platforms like MOODLE can be tracked.
Developing countries like Sierra Leone are still treading in the direction of making advances in the global community of technology, but this needs serious strategic planning to make sure institutions of all types (corporate, educational, governmental and non-governmental) harness the chances of keeping pace with countries around the world. With the current high state of non-compliance present in the financial sector, it is but necessary for technological advances like MLEs to be given serious consideration in the breakthrough of ensuring professional working standards are embraced. Currently, institutions across the world, particularly those in the advanced economies are embracing the opportunities, given the benefit this sort of technology brings to improved operations and work standard, with the capacity to synchronise Management Information Systems [MIS] where employee details are automatically updated on the system to take full advantage of facilities. 3 This advanced and digitised technology brings with it the advantage of synchronous or asynchronous means of learning / communication around the world; the former refers to the exchange of ideas and information with one or more participant at the same time, for example, this could involve face-to-face discussion and also online real-time discussion, incorporating feedback from participants. On the other hand, the latter [asynchronous] is a form of self-paced means of communication /learning where participants are engaged in ideas or discussions without the dependence on another participant in a realtime [e.g., this may include blogging, emails and discussion board]. Both synchronous and asynchronous methods are said to have moved society to a point where individuals can improve their opportunities for collaboration, with knowledge acquisition set at the centre of embracing variety of learning opportunities the technology has brought to people's lives ( [3]and [4]).
The facility of MOODLE platform is not so common in the learning environment in many developing economies and in particular Sierra Leone where learning process is still based on the old didactic approach to teaching. Given the current age of technology, it is now a choice for those engaged in learning to decide as to whether they should engage in 100% online learning or part-way depending on their commitments to work. The decision to move into a flexible approach to learning by staff in a country like Sierra Leone will certainly change the landscape of professionalism as staff are mostly engaged in the rote approach to learning and without much opportunities for them to be actively connected with virtual world of learning. The benefit of proposing MOODLE as a means of learning for the financial sector is that its flexible feature make it possible for anyone to be actively engage in continuous learning, more without the need to worry about distance and location. The learning process is always done electronically with real-time engagement with other participants in the world.

MOODLE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ITS ARCHITECTURE
MOODLE is a learning environment whose topology is defined by an easy access for users to select appropriate tool[s] that enhances their access to learning resources. Based on an excerpt from Jackson [2], the term Topology from its derivative in mathematics and as applied in the context of this chapter, refers to the physical description of MOODLE features that makes learning for both teachers / instructors and learners more adaptive, with its flexibility of usage in a static / M-Learning environment using gadgets like tablets / Mobile phones. By definition, "MOODLE is a learning platform designed to provide educators, administrators and learners with a single robust, secure and integrated system to create personalised learning environment (MOODLE: Online)". The complex feature of the platform 4 has made it possible for users to take advantage of modern technology through flexible means of engagement, which can take the form of self-paced learning, video conferencing, real-time collaboration with users and many more. Figure 1 below provided an illustrative discourse of the architecture of MOODLE with its integrated features for promoting flexible means of learning, while also ensuring detailed for the achievement of high professional standards are met.  The assignment tool button in Figure 2 allow task(s) to be created which can be assessed with constructive academic environment] to customize tools to address organisational priorities. As seen in Figure 2, the BigBlueButtonBN allow access to real-time classroom and also later recording using the RecordingsBN resource button [13].
With reference to Figure 2, MOODLE provide the means for an instructor to add the following five types of readable course (much more so in the Lesson tool) materials for users, but not necessarily interactive [8].
a text page a web page a link to anything on the web a label that displays any text or image a view of one courses directories 6 On a more interactive note, the following interactive courses materials can be added for learners use as addressed by Kesse [8]: assignment (everyone can uploading files to be reviewed by instructor or learner) The following activity items on the pedagogy widow will also easy interaction and collaboration by student: MOODLE runs through an operating system (depending on the most preferred choice of an institution / organisation), and its topology can be networked to address the needs / requirements of users or the establishment. Figure 3 below provide a generalise topology system for a typical MOODLE infrastructure with connecting hubs, with physical cables within establishments, but also wireless to address the institution's size directed at the MOODLE server to make sure information are easily shared irrespective of where the user is accessing information.  MOODLE as a learning tool, provide the medium through which learners / users can improve their knowledge (qualification discourse) as a result of the active and collaborative support from facilitators in the learning environment. As shown in Figure 4, MOODLE platform provide the enabling environment for users to collaborate, either through face-to-face or virtual means of socialisation discourse, an area also emphasised by Majumdar [10]. In the event that such learning platform is to be adapted, particularly by corporate establishments in the financial sector, there is an opportunity to increase users' opportunity in their improving skills through knowledge sharing. This can be done through the learning medium environment by engaging in activities like tests, which can be self- Where the requirement is based on Risk and Compliance in industry like Financial and Insurance sector, employees can be actively engaged in studies and continuous assessment exercises can be set up to make sure core skills are assess regularly through the Test activity platform. This means that specialist skills can be addressed and with the necessary support provided to make sure staff are competent enough to meet standard required in the industry.
One area of relevance in the practice of this interconnected learning pedagogy is the fact that learning process can be differentiated on the basis of pace to meet users / learner needs, more so in ensuring standards are achieved through application in their work environment. Apart from being an essential technology for improved collaboration, it also comes in with the benefit of flexibility to the learner and also those that are engaged in the facilitation process, can adapt resources flexibly to address learning specific needs, with easy accessibility regardless of location and the type of device the user may decide to use in accessing materials, for example, laptop, desktop or tablets. Through such dedicated approach to learning opportunities created, it is certain that staff will be able to produce tangible evidence in the form of qualifications as addressed in Biesta's interconnected learning pedagogy. The socialisation facility provided in MOODLE platform makes possible for users to improve their learning opportunities on a regular basis without recourse to finding alternative means of support. Given the heavy demand on staff working in the finance / insurance industry, it can be very difficult for them to be actively engaged in learning that will improve their core competencies, but the availability of flexible learning medium like MOODLE, users can be assured of improving their skills regularly by ensuring the features are used effectively and on a regular basis.

TECHNOLOGY [FINANCIAL SECTOR ENVIRONMENT IN SIERRA LEONE AS A CASE STUDY]
In order to keep pace with the dynamic world of digital technology and also improving high standard in work practices, it is vital that senior leadership takes cognisance of how best facilities in MLE technology can support high level corporate governance issues, in a bid to ensuring risks and compliance responsibilities are addressed on a regular basis. In developed economies like the UK, there is tremendous efforts being made to address concerns around risks and compliance, particularly so on account of the bitter experience from the 2007/09 financial meltdown which witnessed billions wiped out of share value. This also witnessed the collapse of financial institutions and simply on account of relaxed measures in keeping pace with macro-prudential guidelines that were essential in combatting risks to the financial system.
In addition to mitigating issues around risks and compliance measures, financial and also insurance industries in the developing countries are actually making tremendous efforts to capacitate staff in meeting with the demands from customers through product introduction in the market. As emphasised by Majumdar [10] 'increasing competition, newer regulatory bodies, as well as the tremendous impact of information technology has changed the way the industry conducts businesses'. In this vein, there is high priority given to adapting the topology of MLE to suit mobile devices, such that business operations can serve the needs of customers, more so in a flexible manner. This meant that such topology can be customised to incorporate the integration of video / audio based learning solutions that enhances employees' confidence in performing their roles. In addition, they can also be integrated with required facilities for frequent update on mandatory skills requirements to ascertain minimum compliance standards in the industry. This for example, could ensure regular assessment on core skills are addressed through industry standard courses to improve confidence for those engaged in the industry.
The use of MOODLE platform can also carry with it the benefit of serving as a medium for institutions, particularly those in the finance / industry to launch new products, while at the same time, service its purpose within the HR department of monitoring core assessment of skills / professional standards from employees and also a platform for making do with the best recruitment of experienced staff. It can be a very appropriate medium for the assessment of core skills needed by employers, which is needed in the current age of technology to reduce unnecessary costs incurred by employers. The collaborative feature makes it possible for easy means of initial assessment, while the end goal is to make sure potential staff are suitably assessed to meet the requirements of organisational objectives.
In the way forward, the use of MLE or appropriate learning platform environment like MOODLE can support this through its dedicated use by institutions, particularly in developing countries like Sierra Leone to increase staff skills and equally those charged with oversight responsibilities of governances.
As presented in the above diagrams, particularly that of Figure 1, the availability of MOODLE will allow scope for staff to increase their learning opportunities, more flexibly in their scope to improve 12 performances. The preference for this is based on its ease of cost to the user and easy means of online learning support provided by the creator.

CONCLUSION
In the current age of technology, organisations must endeavour to make it part of their organisational and corporate objectives in ensuring technology is made an integral part of enhancing human resource capacity. The discussion has provided some snapshot of MOODLE platform in advancing human resource potential, particularly in coming to terms with compliance and risks issues corporate organisations face in the digital world of technology.
For those already working in the pathway of moving their organisations in the direction of embracing modern technology, efforts must be addressed whereby research is made an integral part of the strategic leadership to ensure the most cost effective MLE is used to drive standards to their highest level, particularly in areas where risk is of critical concern to an organisation's potential for development and sustainable growth in a competitive market. MOODLE is not only an academic medium for learning, but also very relevant in the corporate environment as a way of improving collaboration in work standards, while also ensuring technology is reached out to every individual, regardless of place or distance. A type of technology which will make it possible for people's progress to be monitored without the need to be constantly watching them. It brings an entire system under single operation, while at the same time making sure collaboration amongst participants is of high concern. In this case, the effectiveness of such a system will need the support of both strategic leaders and those participating in courses to make sure value-for-money is set as the centre-piece of an institution's goal. 13

OUTCOME INDICATORS OF FACILITATION AND LEARNING IMPACT
MOODLE as a type of flexible learning platform has provided the means through which learners / users can independently develop their (learning) skills to improve overall corporate responsibilities, particularly in an industry like financial / banking where the dynamism of things happening is very rapid. In this section, effort has been made to address the impact to users into two categories, namely 'Soft and Hard' as summarised below:

SOFT INDICATOR IMPACTS
These are more generic outcomes for the benefit of both learners and facilitators in enabling a more flexible approach to learning be realised. 2. There is also possibility of adding value to knowledge by developing Bespoke CPD sessions, particularly for the benefit of facilitators who will need to be on top of how learning is steered on a regular basis. This is also a way of improving skills in interactive differentiation on how course items are to be delivered in meeting the needs of learners' learning styles.
3. This can also be an opportunity for targeting means of high quality of assessment and feedback provided throughout to learners. This in itself is a way of improving timely feedback to the learning community, particularly those who may be enrolled on specific summative assessment courses required for performance management.

HARD INDICATOR OUTCOMES
This is the strategic level of outcomes which needs the support of strategic leadership to improve learning outcomes of users: 1. Given the flexibility of the online learning platform, this is an opportunity for strategic leaders to support 'add-on' features like link buttons for learners to quickly access constructive feedback and support guides to improve learning outcomes by users. In this case, progress of those engage in the process of using MOODLE to improving their outcomes will be monitored, more so as a way of determining performance management like pay progression and promotion.
2. As a way of going forward, the HR department in individual institutions must endeavour to create an Information and Learning Technology (ILT)' position(s) to make sure specific duties and responsibilities connected with flexible learning using the platform are managed. This may include additional role of ensuring course materials for users' needs are uploaded regularly, with improved interactivity.

3.
A dedicated time is also essential for strategic leaders to consider as a way of ensuring users / learners are conversant with the topology of the learning platform. This will serve as a way of marketing the corporate social responsibility role of management in improving capacity building for staff.