Abstract
This research was conducted with a view to developing a framework for effective online corporate training based on adult learning theories. A review of relevant literature pertaining to adult learning theories was undertaken, and conclusions were drawn from the theories and models examined. Based on these conclusions, a survey was developed and disseminated to 81 professionals working in a corporate environment (a South African professional services firm). Contrasts and similarities between their responses and the adult learning theories were drawn, and these were further distilled into conclusions, which, in turn, were used to devise a framework that may be used as a benchmark for effective online corporate training. This framework indicates five broad aspects to be considered for online training in a corporate learning environment to be effective: 1) self-directedness of the training, 2) the prior experiences of the learner, 3) the relevance of the training to the learner and his/her role, 4) the usefulness of the training, and 5) the current learning environment of the learner’s business unit and the company as a whole.