A new Rural Solutions SA devised online learning initiative called ELVIS is about to improve farmer education and interaction.

ELVIS (E-learning Virtual Interaction Services) will take online communication and e-learning to the regions through the use of virtual classrooms on the internet; the same way isolated students in rural communities currently attend school through the School of the Air.

The brainchild of Rural Solutions SA staff, the initiative promises to be a godsend for farmer education and interaction, with people, equipped with a webcam and microphone, able to attend meetings, communicate ideas and undergo training from the comfort of their own homes.

Port Augusta-based Rural Solutions SA consultant, Ann Johnston says that while the project is still in its development stage; it offers previously isolated rural communities the ability to connect with the global community.

Caption
Rural Solutions SA’s Merri Tothill uses her headset and webcam to communicate via a virtual classroom.

The technology will provide farmers with a much more cost effective means of interacting with other farmers and attending online workshops, rather then having to sacrifice time off from their farms to get the same information face-to-face.

The opportunities for personal development are limitless and Primary Industries and Resources South Australia will be taking the lead role in facilitating the uptake of the technology across SA.

For further information contact Ann Johnston or 1300 364 322.

Date of release: 3 October 2008