Technology in Education -2 e-Learning and Formal Education by sheela selvaraj
Learning Outcome Understand the Concepts and Definitions Explore e-Learning Platforms and Tools Analyze the Benefits and Challenges
Introduction E-learning has become an integral part of formal education, revolutionizing the way knowledge is delivered and consumed. E-learning is a mode of learning that takes place electronically, often via the Internet. It requires students to use electronic devices such as computers, tablets and cell phones—usually their own, although often students use institutional devices too.With e-learning, students theoretically can learn any time or place, as long as they have access to a device and a Wi-Fi or data connection. Learning management systems are an effective way to facilitate e-learning as these platforms can encapsulate students’ courses, assessments and grades.
E-learning courses can be delivered live, where students can digitally “raise their hands” to participate in the class. Alternatively, pre-recorded modules can guide students through the material. E-learning components such as gamification and online polling and discussions can also contribute to a positive interactive learning environment.
Benefits of e-learning 1 Flexibility and Convenience E-learning offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing learners to access educational resources anytime and anywhere, breaking free from the constraints of traditional classroom settings. 2 Cost-effectiveness Online courses often come at a lower cost compared to traditional programs, making education accessible to a wider range of learners. 3 Personalized Learning E-learning platforms can tailor learning experiences to individual needs and learning styles, providing customized content, pace, and assessments. 4 Global Reach E-learning removes geographical barriers, allowing students to connect with educators and peers from around the world, fostering global perspectives and collaborations.
Challenges of e-learning Technical Barriers Access to reliable internet connectivity and appropriate technology can pose significant obstacles for some learners, creating digital divides. Motivation and Engagement Maintaining motivation and engagement in a virtual environment can be challenging, requiring effective learning strategies and interactive tools. Social Interaction While e-learning platforms offer opportunities for online collaboration, replicating the richness of face-to-face interactions and social learning can be challenging. Quality Control Ensuring the quality and credibility of online courses requires rigorous standards and accreditation processes to maintain educational integrity.
Comparison of e-learning and Traditional Classroom Learning Traditional Classroom Learning Traditional classroom learning provides a structured environment, face-to-face interaction, and a shared learning experience. It fosters social interaction and immediate feedback from instructors. Structured environment Face-to-face interaction Shared learning experience Social interaction Immediate feedback E-learning E-learning offers flexibility, convenience, personalized learning, and access to global resources. It can be more challenging to maintain motivation, engagement, and social interaction in a virtual environment. Flexibility and convenience Personalized learning Global resources Motivation and engagement Social interaction
Blended Learning Approaches 1 Online Learning Components E-learning modules, online assessments, video lectures, discussion forums, and virtual collaboration tools are integrated into the curriculum. 2 Face-to-Face Interaction Students engage in traditional classroom settings for group projects, lab work, discussions, and interactive learning experiences. 3 Flexible Learning Schedule Blended learning allows students to manage their time effectively by combining online and offline activities, providing greater flexibility and autonomy.
Accessibility and Inclusivity in e-learning Accessibility Features E-learning platforms should incorporate accessibility features, such as screen readers, captions, and alternative text formats, to ensure inclusivity for learners with diverse abilities. Global Access E-learning can bridge geographical barriers, providing educational opportunities to learners in remote areas and under-served communities. Multilingual Support Offering courses in multiple languages and providing translation tools can create a more inclusive and accessible learning environment for learners with diverse linguistic backgrounds. Diverse Learning Styles E-learning can cater to various learning styles, offering a range of multimedia resources, interactive activities, and personalized learning paths.
Personalized Learning Experiences Adaptive Learning Platforms These platforms adjust the difficulty and pace of learning materials based on individual student progress, providing personalized feedback and support. Personalized Learning Paths E-learning allows students to choose modules, activities, and assessments that align with their interests, goals, and learning styles. Data-Driven Insights E-learning platforms track student progress, identify areas of strength and weakness, and provide individualized recommendations for improvement.
Technological Advancements in e-learning Virtual Reality (VR) Immersive learning experiences Augmented Reality (AR) Overlaying digital content onto the real world Artificial Intelligence (AI) Personalized learning, automated grading, and intelligent tutoring systems Adaptive Learning Platforms Tailoring content and pacing based on individual student progress Gamification Engaging learners through game-like elements and rewards
Collaboration and Social Learning in e-learning 1 Online Discussion Forums Students can interact with peers and instructors, engage in debates, share ideas, and ask questions. 2 Virtual Collaboration Tools Platforms like Google Docs, Trello, and Zoom allow for real-time collaboration on projects, presentations, and group activities. 3 Social Learning Networks Platforms like LinkedIn and Edmodo provide opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and peer-to-peer learning.
Formal learning Formal and informal learning are two opposing learning styles. One is pragmatic and organized. The other, casual and unstructured.Formal learning is learning that is delivered “in a systematic intentional way” . It’s planned and guided by an instructor and it usually occurs in a face-to-face setting or through an online learning platform, like an LMS . Formal training has traditionally happens in a classroom setting. formal training programmes, educators design training interventions by tailoring the time requirements, objectives, goals and resources. Learners then follow this preset journey to reach their goals
Formal learning usually incorporates three universally accepted elements. Learning happens according to a specified curriculum that sets out what your learners need to comprehend. The course is taught by a designated highly-skilled instructor or group of educators. Learners are assessed and certified at the end of their training to evaluate and showcase understanding.
1. Curriculum As formal learning is a structured training method, educators create a rigid curriculum and framework that learners follow. This is typically true regardless of whether or not actual attendance is necessary. These curriculums have specific learning objectives and goals. These objectives focus on describing the changes in learners’ skills or knowledge that are expected at the end of the training course. These objectives are then mapped to content or training experiences in a structured way. Learners are then expected to consume these experiences within a specific timeframe.
2. Instructor-Led Formal training typically takes place in educational institutions or settings. And these training interventions are typically led by instructors, instructional designers or teachers. They are experienced professionals who typically hold specific qualifications or have vast experience with a particular topic. Based on their expertise, these instructors decide what content to include in each curriculum and focus on creating pragmatic training programmes. Instructors then systematically deliver these courses. They act as an assessor, authority and support for their learners.
3. Assessments & Certifications To ensure learners meet their set objectives, their progress is measured with tests and other assessments. Assessing your learners is essential . After all, success in these assessments proves that your learners have reached the end goal of comprehensive learning. Typically, this leads to degrees, certifications or other qualifications that help your learners to convey their mastery. This gives them some well-earned recognition for all their hard work. And who doesn’t love getting their efforts noticed?
Learning Environments Formal learning content and training materials can be delivered via traditional classroom training. However, advancing technology and recent world events have changed the L&D landscape. As a result, many organisations have moved to online or blended learning approaches. But this doesn’t mean that formal training is no longer effective or feasible! Oh no. In the modern world, formal training can take place in a physical classroom, over the internet and even on mobile devices! Combined, these kinds of interactive classrooms can be the key to engaging and effective formal training.
Tools For Effective Formal Learning 1 Gamification 2 Learning Games 3 Video Elements 4 Support
1. Gamification Gamification sounds way too fun, or perhaps childish, to be used in formal learning, right? But formal training doesn’t have to be boring. And gamification is far from silly children’s games ! Gamification features, like Badges , Leaderboards and Levels , help you to build some healthy competition among your learners. Gamification features, like Badges , Leaderboards and Levels , help you to build some healthy competition among your learners. In turn, this helps to keep your training materials at the front of their mind.
2. Learning Games Learning games , on the other hand, are an excellent way to make your formal training content more exciting! They provide a great way to exercise our brains.Most of us are familiar with games. In fact, there are more than 2.5 billion gamers in the world! Playing games comes naturally to us. As such, learning games hold habitual power . Whether you use interactive games in the classroom or online, learning games will make training fun and offer instant engagement.
3. Video Elements Training sessions with dusty old textbooks or text-dense PDFs tend to be daunting and unengaging. Going through presentation slides one by one can make even the most engaged learners zone out. Individuals tend to retain more information through video than they would through a normal text format. In fact, Forrester Research found that one minute of video is worth a whopping 1.8 million words ! Videos are engaging and easy to consume. After all, our brain processes video 60,000 times faster than words. Furthermore, learners can easily pause and rewind important parts of the video to understand concepts better. As such, you should use videos to demonstrate the key points of your topic.
4. Support Formal learning topics can cover anything from straightforward product information to complex regulations and compliance training. There is a great chance that learners will need help at some point in their learning journey.Offering support as part of formal training programme is essential. When learners don’t understand a concept, they need to be able to ask questions and find support in real-time. This is easy during traditional face-to-face classroom sessions. Learners just raise their hands if they have a question and get an answer straight away. But how about in an online learning environment?Online learning platforms offer various tools for instructor-to-learner or peer-to-peer support.
Advantages Of Formal Learning 1. More Desirable For Certain Topics. There are certain topics and courses you need to ensure are being taught properly. For example, teaching subjects topics that all learners need to understand. To ensure that each and every one of your learners has acquired this required knowledge, you need to provide formal training. 2. Structured Approach Formal learning is scheduled and takes place in a step-by-step manner. Having this kind of clear structure can be reassuring to your learners. They know exactly what to expect and how to prepare for their sessions. Similarly, this structured approach means that you can ensure each of your learners receives the same training and understanding. Formal training provides you with a clear baseline. 3.Qualifications Formal learning is often a certified process. This means that your learners will gain a certification, diploma or certificate once they complete their training programme. Learners can then use these qualifications to progress their careers by showcasing their mastery. 4. Easier to Capture Formal training is always quantifiable. This means it’s an assessable and measurable approach to training. Furthermore, as formal learning happens in a structured manner, you can track it as it happens.Whether you measure progress through in-class tests or data captured by your LMS, you’re left in the perfect position to see and showcase how your learners are progressing.
The Future of e-learning and Formal Education Personalized Learning E-learning will continue to evolve towards hyper-personalized learning experiences, leveraging AI and data analytics to tailor content, pace, and assessments to individual needs. Immersive Technologies VR, AR, and mixed reality will create immersive and engaging learning environments, making education more interactive and engaging. Global Collaboration E-learning will foster greater global collaboration, connecting learners and educators from diverse backgrounds and cultures, creating a truly global learning ecosystem.