With over 3000 courses now available to study online - in subjects as diverse as languages, IT and fork lift truck driving - the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) is conducting a research project to find out how effective learning online is.

As more and more people are using computers and the Internet for a whole host of different life tasks – such as shopping, banking and booking holidays - this form of learning is anticipated to become ever more popular.

NIACE is keen to hear about the experiences – good and bad - of learners who have chosen to study online, so future learners can benefit.

Lisa Englebright, Researcher, ICT and Learning Team, NIACE, said: "This is the first generation of learners who have studied online. For NIACE it’s both interesting and important to find out what the benefits are and what the drawbacks have been. We’re keen to get an accurate picture of how effective or ineffective online learning has been for adults. We want to hear your stories whether they’re positive or negative."

She continued, “Once we’ve got our findings, we hope to be able to increase the understanding of providers and decision makers about online learning. This will ensure that steps are taking to improve on what’s available and help more learners to take advantage of the flexibility of learning in this way."

For further information go to www.niace.org.uk/online or to take part email ian.pettit@niace.org.uk.