Today, the world is moving rapidly towards utilization. There are an increasing number of technological applications used to share and transmit knowledge. In a classroom setting, the knowledge that students can acquire is restricted to what the teacher has. Connecting students with the outside world increases their ability to build new knowledge.
E-learning, or electronic learning is a term used to describe the wide range of electronic methods that allow access to education and also the process itself. Virtual classrooms, computer-based education, digital collaboration, audio and video recordings, interactive television and more are all included. E-learning can be used for flexible learning and distance learning. Blended learning is a combination of e-learning and face to face instruction.
History of E-learning
Since its introduction in 1990, e-learning has evolved. Its roots can be traced to radio broadcasts in the 1920s that offered distant learning. PLATO, Professor Don Bitzer’s first computer-based educational tool introduced in 1960, was a milestone in e-learning. Its primary purpose was to increase and improve student literacy.
E-Learning Features
1. Association of Diverse Learning Tools
Students can broaden their horizons by using mixed learning tools. Online assets are often combined to create e-learning platforms. It is a collection of tools that can be accessed by both students and teachers.
2. Find online courses
Learning Management Systems are a collection of schedules and courses. Users can jump directly to a course, take a look and enroll by simply scrolling through the catalogs or lists.
3. User-Friendly Interface
Apps and websites that offer e-learning can make learning more interactive and inclusive through attractive design, bold aesthetics, and engaging interfaces.
Evolution of E-Learning
In the last decade, e-learning has undergone a radical transformation. Early on, e-learning courses were usually custom made by groups of programmer who used software creation tools. The development of technology has led to the creation and use of the worldwide web. This made it easier for anyone, even without any programming experience, to create e-learning.
The introduction of new technology, such as portable computers, made it easier for students to access online course materials. Many people use tablets and smartphones for online classes, web seminars and webinars.
E-learning Types
E-learning can be classified based on the way it is distributed from the instructor to the student. Informal distribution of eLearning is when the student’s are trusted to look at the course materials and not tested for completion.
Instructors usually record and track the progress of learners in formal e-learning distribution. The majority of educational institutions who offer certifications to students use specific standards and systems for judging the students’ scores.
Learning Management Systems are used to track scores and ensure that students’ standards of each course are met. These platforms allow users to build good online courses, and students to have access to these courses. They come in different forms and have different capabilities. Some platforms are free, while others require a fee.
E-learning: Elements
There are several criteria that must be met when creating an online course. By defining criteria, you can ensure that the students get full value from their course.
Some of the common elements in e-learning are:
It is essential that the role of the teacher/instructor be played. It is important that he/she provides feedback to the students.
It is important to have a well-organized Learning Management system. Both the student and instructor should be able to easily navigate the system.
Learning material is the most important feature of e-learning. Course material is usually formatted so that it is easy to understand and accessible by students.
Communication is key to learning. Students must use at least one of the various modes of communication to receive online coursework from their instructor.
Today, there are a variety of devices that enable teachers and students to exchange knowledge. The trainer interacts with viewers and listeners using multimedia, voice communication, videos (live, prerecorded), product demonstrations, presentations, text chats, and most often, the internet.
E-Learning: Its Importance
E-learning has been introduced to encourage student literacy. The advent of various websites and apps supporting e-learning and the advancement of technology has empowered users to gain basic skills and education.
E-learning has brought together all tutors, specialists, learners, and practitioners in one place. Audio visual technologies have eliminated the monotonous teaching methods.
What is Online Learning?
Skillshare, Google Classroom and other platforms allow online learning. Users can choose from a compact course catalog. The tutors have laid out a pre-determined module for each course. Sign up and complete the course is all that’s required.
E-learning: Its advantages
The users can access top-notch knowledge and content through e-learning platforms that are equipped with smart and tech tools.
1. Multimedia Tools
The e-learning platform makes learning more engaging with graphics and video clips. The e-learning platforms use high-tech multimedia tools instead of boring lessons to engage users.
2. Sensory Engagement
The tools and features of e-learning increase the user’s sensory engagement. Learning methods demand that learners actively use their hands, eyes, and ears while taking a course. This involvement makes the user more involved in the specific assignment.
3. More Customization
Every individual is different. Every user has a different pace and power of retention. The E-learning platform acknowledges this and offers an individual experience to each user.
4. Course Correction
Students receive immediate feedback from e-learning platforms. Users are immediately corrected and directed to the correct answer. First-hand feedback clarifies the queries of users.
5. Speed up
If the user already has the knowledge required of the subject they can test their understanding through mock tests. This will save both time and resources.
6. Learner Satisfaction
The confidence of its users is boosted by the e-learning’s result boards, certificates, and metrics. The users are satisfied as they can see the results of their efforts.
7. Data and Analytics
The responses of users can be checked with the aid of data and analytics. Learning Management System can take into account the user’s responses and make the necessary adjustments.
8. Standardization
Content and materials are made user-friendly to engage users. It is easier to retain and absorb information when learning methods are tailored according to the needs of the individual.
9. Frequent Assignments
Each e-learning platform offers a variety of quizzes, assignments and mock tests for users to test their knowledge. These assignments help users to not only use their knowledge, but also boost their confidence.
10. Eco-friendly and maintainable
These tools are not harmful to the environment and do not waste resources. These tools are more efficient and produce better results.
11. Scalability
The ability of the e-learning software to allow users from around the world to connect is a great feature. It organizes and manages users without delay.