With the growing demand for new ways to impart knowledge and train employees effectively, eLearning has been the best solution, with time and resources being crunched. With its highly affordable and time-saving methods, eLearning has now become a significant part of most growing organizations for training their workforce to improve efficiency and productivity. The demand for eLearning has been rising exponentially and has been estimated to reach 275 billion USD. Here is all you should know about what it has to offer.
Definition and Types
eLearning, expanded as electronic learning, is defined as the delivery of learning and training processes using digital resources through methods of formalized education supported by electronic devices through the internet.
Simply put, there are two primary models of eLearning or online learning. They are
1. Synchronous
This type of learning is dependent on an instructor. It is very similar to a traditional lecture class, where a standard professional addresses multiple participants from different locations. These classes are often based on a fixed schedule and are supported by a web-based conferencing technology when all the participants are present virtually. Apart from the general sessions, the resources are made available at the LMS or similar platforms where the learners can access them for future reference and studies.
2. Asynchronous
The asynchronous mode of learning is the most sought-after means of eLearning, thanks to its wide range of benefits. The method depends entirely on the learner, who is ultimately in control and responsible for his own learning. It is entirely self-directed and paced according to the comfort of the learner. A significant portion of the process is based upon the information provided on the platform, supported by discussions and message boards among other participants taking up similar programs.
Features you should look for
Since the basic idea of an eLearning entity is to ensure user comfort and knowledge delivery, it is necessary for the tools, apps, and platforms to fulfil a bunch of criteria to provide the same. Here is a short list of essential features you should know before you get on board an eLearning system.
1. Usage across Platforms
Since you might be accessing the eLearning forum from different devices at times, according to availability and comfort, ensure that your system is compatible with other devices and operating systems. Make sure they are compatible with your mobile phones, especially because you can send and receive notifications and reminders regarding the course.
2. Social Features and Communication
Since discussions and team projects are integral to eLearning programs, programs that support basic social media features and multiple communication options are highly beneficial. This also ensures better communication, especially if the training program is within a company.
3. Diverse Means of Application
Like all modes of learning and training, the programs must include various activities and mediums to cater to the diverse minds they cater to. This includes debates, discussions, infographics, quizzes, and other interactive means to add a little variety to promote the retention of acquired knowledge.
Ways to utilize eLearning
Different work systems worldwide use learning resources through various techniques and platforms best suited to their needs and work process. As a common ground, almost all eLearning facilities greatly depend upon the internet, providing extensive reach not bound by geographical factors. Here are a few examples that are popular in the eLearning scene.
1. Online Courses
Though this was a very skeptical concept when first launched, the intuitive population has now grown to accept these means as an easy and effective means to acquire knowledge at their convenience. Most of these online course providers use LMS or learning management systems to deliver and organize the study materials. Since most of the LMS hold options for analysis and progress tracking, this is one of the best options for practical training of the workforce and application-based learning from remote locations.
2. Applications and Software
With self-teaching and personal learning becoming a popular trend, a massive part of the working population is now seeking additional qualifications and certification through these reputed apps and online software. There are multiple benefits that you can claim based on an improved resume, and these skills can help you boat your professional image.
3. Shared Learning and Teams
Many companies host training programs covering a more extensive geographical area, involving trainees from remote places. In such cases, eLearning platforms allowing collaboration from multiple users are instrumental. In most situations, these platforms and tools will enable the team members to work simultaneously on a single file, saving a lot of time and transcending communication and location barriers simultaneously.
Conclusion
Allowing flexible access and availability at any time will enable the users and employers to look upon the resources at any time and through any device, they have access to. This allows organizations to overcome restrictions and easily transcend the boundaries laid down by conventional learning methods.