WHAT IS ELEARNING?

eLearning, Distance Learning, or Blended?

Confused over the terms: web-based eLearning, online learning or distance learning?  Are we talking about the same thing here? web-based training a digital learning environment images email video video conferencing audio conferences CBT (usually CD or from the company’s server). Distance Learning utilises: print based correspondence schools, mail order courses, video and audio tapes, manuals, work books and other tools.  Distance Learning is an old concept, yet the term is used consistently today with the phrase elearning.  Many ‘distance learning’ organisations and institutions have started to use the new technology and are key players in fostering the growth of the elearning industry. However the older terminologies still exist and are generally accepted as a natural part of the transition economy we are fortunate enough to live in.   Distance Learning Defined by Webopedia.com :   "A type of education where students work on their own at home or at the office and communicate with faculty and other students via e-mail, electronic forums, video-conferencing and other forms of computer-based communication. Distance learning is becoming especially popular with companies that need to regularly re-train their employees because it is less expensive than bringing all the students together in a traditional classroom setting. Most distance learning programs include a computer-based training (CBT) system and communications tools to produce a virtual classroom. Because the Internet and World Wide Web are accessible from virtually all computer platforms, they serve as the foundation for many distance learning systems."  Blended Learning   Many reports are showing the effectiveness of a blended learning approach.  Blended learning solutions use the best mix of media for users, enabling them to learn easily and successfully.  As tutors and trainers we will automatically be working towards the time when the students can choose the methodology and the media they wish to be taught in.  Until then blended learning is one methodology that is proving effective to many.   Blended Learning can comprise of: Online programs (delivered across the Internet or your organisation's Intranet) supported with: some face-to-face training with tutorial or peer support by:email, phone, bulletin board, video or audio conferencing, …  In fact, whatever is most appropriate for you and your users.

Distance learning via the Internet and/or combined with other carriers can:

• satisfy the demand for alternative forms of education,
• use the work of the best instructors,
• use an extensive collection of resources,
• provide a 24/7 approach,
• serve as an equalizer in terms of access and equity,
• provide a quality product at a lower cost and,
• provide a buffer against the vicissitudes of an unpredictable economy

Due to the high growth prospects for this industry, many existing companies are re-positioning themselves to target related opportunities.  Since distance learning can also be used as a tool for e-commerce and to leverage the intellectual capital of an organisation, eLearning is emerging as a most important asset.  New companies can build profitable businesses by developing or using the next generation of content, services and technologies for business, and academic and consumer markets.

The signs of change are everywhere, none more obvious than the workplace.  Peter Drucker observed, "We live in an economy where knowledge, not buildings and machinery, is the chief resource, and where knowledge workers make up the biggest part of the work force.

Until well into the 20th century most workers were manual workers. Today in this country only about 20% do manual work. Of the remainder, nearly half, 40% of our total work force, are knowledge workers. Preparing children, teens, and adults to function in this milieu is a top priority of society and the development and expansion of the Internet and distance learning are essential to achieving this goal.

The Internet and distance learning are interrelated works in progress.  Some initiatives intended to propel development and change include:

The World Wide Web Consortium

Internet2

Web-based Education Commission

Distance Education at a Glance (University of Idaho) 
a guide to provide teachers, administrators, facilitators, and students with strategies and tools for understanding distance education.

Why Distance Learning?
A highly informative paper from the eLRN Network concerns distance learning and education - the global industries and the populations served by these industries. 

3D Animation of the Internet  >>

 

Here is a 3D animation showing what the internet communities  would look like if they were anchored in space around the earth.   Courtesy NASA