November 2009
e-learning, where teaching and learning happen via online technologies, has been around for over 10 years. But as the world wide web evolves to include user-driven features, such as wikis, blogs, live chats, podcasts, content syndication, and tailored email subscriptions, e-learning too is changing ‘to a degree significant enough to warrant a new name: e-learning 2.0.’ (Stephen Downes, E-learning 2.0)
A quick survey of the nature and presence of e-learning at some of the world’s most successful educational institutions and corporations demonstrates its growing value to these organisations.
e-learning 2.0 in education
World-class universities such as Yale, Cambridge, and the Australian National University deliver several courses and programs online. Yale even offers a number of free undergraduate courses online through its Open Yale initiative.
For geographically separated students, benefits abound. Scheduled chat sessions lead to lively discussions. Writings and other resources are shared through blogs and wikis. Course presenters record their presentations at the push of a button and upload them onto the web just as easily.
When the technology works well and the programs are engaging, the students thrive.
e-learning 2.0 in business
Forward-thinking organisations such as Microsoft, ENERGEX and ANZ have incorporated e-learning components into their websites in order to spread their messages to the widest possible audience.
They’ve found that e-learning is one of the most effective ways to train and develop staff in today’s fast-paced business environment. Why?
- It uses fewer resources:
- once developed, a module can be used over and over again
- assessment and reporting can be automated
- elements can be repurposed to form part of another training program.
- It provides a more consistent experience for those being trained.
- It can be done from any location: office, home, even on the iPhone.
- Effectively designed e-learning tools and experiences can improve knowledge retention.
- Micro-tests with tailored learning can help people grasp difficult to understand concepts.
- It can be done in small bites, meaning people can learn at their own pace.
- Organisations have a record of who has done what in terms of training – important for OH&S.
e-learning can be even more effective when it uses interactive tools such as:
- forums and bulletin boards
- podcasts
- webinars (to reach a workforce spread over a broad geographic area).
It’s important to use a range of media tools – videos, animation, photos, graphics – to make the e-learning experience as rich, engaging and entertaining as possible.
As online learning further evolves into e-learning 2.0, other leaders in the education and corporate sectors are sure to follow.