Business Models for the Introduction of Innovative ICT-Supported learning in Vocational Education and Training - A Case Study of Three Albanian VET Schools

Abstract

Vocational Education and Training (VET) schools in lower-middle-income countries(LMIC) are facing challenges in introducing new ways of learning into their educational offerings. The purpose of this research is to investigate how the introduction of innovative ICT-supported learning in education affects business models of VET schools in Albania. A case study was conducted in three VET schools located in different cities in Albania(Lezha, Shkoder, and Tirana). Group focus with members of the schools were performed. In addition, the business model canvas (BMC) framework was used to guide the questions and to structure the data collection. Several changes in human and technological resources, communication channels, customers segments, activities, costs, partnerships, and value proposition emerged from the analysis that contributed to schools redefining their business models. This study confirms that the introduction of new ways of learning, such as ICT, had a significant impact on the business models (BM) of the VET schools in Albania; therefore, schools had to innovate their BM by changing the way they create, deliver, and capture value in order to meet this challenge.