By Helene Geiger
New to e-learning? Buzzwords got you down? Here are a few basic concepts to help you sort through the techno-babble!
What is e-learning?
E-learning is training that is delivered through a computer. There are different types of e-learning. Here are some of the differences:
- When the training occurs
- Who is leading the training
- What media is used
- Where the training resides
When is the training?
- Synchronous training: The training is arranged so that the instructor and learners are all interacting simultaneously.
- Asynchronous training: The training is arranged so that learners and/or instructor do not have to participate at the same time.
Who is leading the training?
- Instructor-facilitated e-learning. The instructor leads the learning activity.
- Self-paced e-learning. The learner leads the learning activity. Usually, no instructor is required for self-paced e-learning.
What media is used during the training?
- Some e-learning consists of a series of computer screens. The screens present the content, provide examples, and even test to make sure that learning has occurred.
- Other training requires more complex media, such as audio, video or animation.
- Bandwidth is a major factor in selecting e-learning media. Bandwidth refers to how much data the learner's computer system can receive in a given amount of time. Complex media, such as video, requires high bandwidth. If learners will be accessing training from home, they are likely to require a lower-bandwidth solution.
Where does the e-learning reside?
Some e-learning resides on your organization's servers. It is delivered to learners via your Intranet. The benefits of Intranet-based e-learning:
- More secure
- More predictable delivery, because all learners access it using a high-speed network
- Opportunities to link to other online sites and resources (e.g. protocols, product spec sheets, current price lists, etc.)
Some e-learning resides on an outside server. Learners access the training via the Internet. The benefits of Internet-based e-learning:
- Available 24/7 at any location
- Wider array of e-learning courses is available
Can you combine different types of learning with e-learning?
Yes. Blended learning is the name for training that combines different types of learning with e-learning. Blended learning solutions add another dimension of flexibility and effectiveness.
Helene Geiger is President of Prometheus Training Corporation.
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