E-Learning Types, Tools, and Technologies

Subject: Tech & Engineering
Pages: 3
Words: 648
Reading time:
3 min
Study level: College

Concept of E-Learning

E-learning presents new vistas of learning for people of all ages. A three-dimensional environment interacting with typical objects on screen is an excellent technique for gaining fresh skills and discovering unknown abilities. Through Simulation techniques, it is possible to gain new concepts of e-learning by means of “Computer-Based Training (CBT), Internet-based Training (IBT), and Web-Based Training (WBT)” (Obringer, 2010, p.5). Thus, Simulation serves as an excellent medium for obtaining broader knowledge and practical experiences of e-learning which could not be gained through classroom studies.

History of E-Learning

“A grass-root history of e-learning” seeks to find out the evolution of knowledge, especially in computer technology. In the older days, the brick-and-mortar system taught students on the basis of a one-to-many system. But over the years, the evolution of computer and communication systems has ensured that more efficient methods for knowledge transmission can be improved. Thus, this little history lesson has described the evolution of knowledge, from a one-to-many concept to the use of state-of-the-art computer systems like “webb, virtual, knowledge base, email, class-room, interative, chat, company learning communities” and “outside learning communities…” (A Grass-root history of e-learning, 2010, p.10).

The history of communication technology has been a very interesting and informative exercise, although many other aspects like limited usage of computers, threats, and risks of the computer that need to be known and implemented. This book also dwells on the extent of the risks and challenges that could possibly arise in a computerized environment, especially with regard to crashes, presences of viruses. Thus, the protective mechanism that should be enforced also needs to be explained in this book.

Research on E-Learning and Distance Learning

Informal learning is “perhaps the most dynamic and versatile aspect of learning” (Siemens, 2004, p.1). With regard to the aspect of research on E-Learning, there are no consistencies in this field. This is because different people may have different perspectives about e-learning and, therefore, there is no consensus about the entire process as such. Therefore, a uniform approach needs to be taken with regard to E-Learning. Besides, this would also facilitate greater scope for learners’ participation and, at the same time, widen the expansion and broadening of advanced research studies in this field.

Through E-Learning, our experiences are reflected in our conversations and interactions with other humans. ”A corporate trainer may view e-learning as a combination of courses and knowledge management. No one perspective is symbolic of the whole industry” (Siemens, 2004, p.1). Distance learning envisages a lack of personal contact and learning through online methods which are much faster and more structured as compared with other forms of learning. Besides, distance learning, being in the nature of one-to-many, cannot offer kinds of individualized coaching that is necessary for academic purposes.

Comparing types of e-learning

Different types of e-learning are “Courses, Informal learning, Blended learning, Communities, Knowledge management, Networked learning” and “Work-based learning (EPSS)” (Siemens, 2004, p.3). When comparing the major similarities of e-learning, it is necessary to understand that similarities could be due to teaching scenarios. It is believed that both learners and instructors should be able to connect the overall composition with a learning process. One of the major benefits of e-learning is that students are able to choose the course to pursue in the most effective way, and this is, perhaps, the greatest gift.

E-Tools and Technologies: Reflecting Personal Experience

Technological progress can be definitely applied to an educational sphere. Online learning cannot be successfully implemented without proper computer equipment. The recent technological innovation, Yidio, has provided me with new opportunities for studying. In particular, I was especially interested in its function to combine audio speech with pictures. This function is of great use because now I can transmit some presentations and projects accompanied by pictures and sound and interchange audio presentations with my professor. Besides, such a device also allows me to produce and publish personal audio files.

Reference List

A Grass-root history of e-learning. (2010). Slide share, p.10. Web.

Obringer, L. A. (2010). How e-learning works. How Stuff Works. Web.

Siemens, J. (2004). Categories of learning. Clear space. Web.