IOP training goes global
effort to provide packaging technology courses to all students
worldwide.
The Institute of Packaging has launched Learnpackaging.org in an effort to provide packaging technology courses to all students worldwide.
The IOP has offered open learning courses since the 1980s, training up thousands of industry professionals for its Diploma in Packaging Technology. Now the Diploma as well as the newer Certificate in Packaging will be available to individuals working, or interested in working, in packaging throughout the world via the internet, providing global industry standards for education and training.
Gordon Stewart, Head of Education, Training and Development, said: "Once the Diploma and Certificate gained UK Government recognition, we discussed how we should take training and development forward with big names from within the packaging industry. Our thinking was unanimous. The packaging industry itself is global and the ability for professionals to study and achieve qualifications to a global standard is vital for the success of multinational companies and international trade."
The new online learning centre will offer students complete flexibility in their studies, as they can access the course from wherever they are and at any time, through the learnpackaging.org web site www.learnpackaging.org. The IOP says that Courses can be co-branded with other organisations such as companies in the UK or other countries, to provide tailor-made online learning programmes that suits employer and individual needs as well as leading to a recognised qualification.
Students will have up to 12 months to complete the Certificate and 18 months for the Diploma and will additionally benefit from free affiliate membership of the IOP for two years.
Learnpackaging.org will provide students with regular tutor contact, a course text book, Fundamentals of Packaging Technology, built in tasks and assessment exercises, fully printable notes for each unit including illustrative materials and useful links and reference tools, and the opportunity to work with fellow students in virtual classrooms, the IOP claims.
Once they have completed their studies, students will be assessed for either the Diploma or Certificate, both of which are awarded by the Packaging Industry Awarding Body Company (PIABC).
The IOP has worked with its own tutors, Direct-Ed, the West of England Learning and Skills Council, representatives from the packaging industry and a number of other organisations to develop learnpackaging.org.
For more information please contact about the new course, please contact Kat Ager.
