Since the early 2000s, eLearning has become a common way for organizations and educational institutes to deliver courses and training. While the first computer-led training course were created way back in the 1960s. It wasn’t until the internet and home computers became more readily available that the concept really took off. Since then, the market has rapidly grown in line with the evolution of technology.
But what exactly is eLearning? And why is it so popular? As with anything, some organizations or individuals may fall into the trap of just ‘going with the flow’ without really knowing why or how it can be so effective. In this guide, we’ll explore eLearning in-depth, from its definition to different types and platforms. We’ll also take a look at why eLearning is so important, its benefits and the different ways it can be used to great effect.
Let’s jump in!
What is eLearning?
First, a definition.
eLearning (AKA electronic learning) is training and learning experiences delivered through digital resources. These courses are accessible anywhere, at any time, through internet-enabled computers, laptops, tablets and mobile devices.
Many of us have most likely encountered eLearning in some way. In recent years, the market has exploded with a wealth of virtual courses. Subjects range from professional development programmes to recreational subjects, like floristry and knitting! It’s likely that, if you’re looking to learn something new, you’ll be able to find an eLearning course about it.
This in itself presents a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to upskill either themselves or their employees.
What Is The Difference Between eLearning and Online Learning?
It’s probably not helpful to think of online learning and eLearning as two separate entities. Instead, it’s more productive to consider eLearning as a part of the online learning umbrella.
While they can be used interchangeably, the meaning of each does change depending on context. For example, eLearning is more commonly associated with work-based training. Whereas terms like distance learning are more often associated with academic institutes such as schools, colleges and universities.
Who Uses It?
Anyone can! In fact, many of us already are when we consume content on YouTube or Wikipedia. That being said, a structured virtual learning programme is most commonly used for:
- Employee training
- Customer training
- Educational training (i.e. in schools, colleges and universities)
What Are The Types Of eLearning?
eLearning comes in many different shapes and sizes. Here are a few of the most common types – along with their definitions…
Fixed eLearning
Fixed eLearning is made up of content that doesn’t change. Instead, everyone who participates gets the same experience and information as everyone else.
In recent years, advances in education mean many providers are moving away from fixed learning. Largely because is neither interactive or engaging enough for modern learners. As well as this, fixed eLearning offers no flexibility for personalization or to appeal to different learning styles.
Adaptive eLearning
Adaptive eLearning offers a more flexible framework that caters to different learning styles, paces and preferences. This type of learning considers a number of different factors ranging from performance and abilities to goals. With this type of learning, a one-size fits all approach doesn’t exist. Instead, each and every learning path is dynamic and tailored to the individual. This allow them to approach learning at their own pace, in their own time.
Linear eLearning
Linear eLearning is when information is passed, in a one-way system, from teacher to learner. An example of this is a click-and-read course that offers no interactive elements.
Llinear eLearning is thought to be one of the least effective methods of virtual training. However, this type of learning experience does have its place. For example, it can be effective in communicating straightforward topics and concepts consistently in a short space of time.
Interactive Online Learning
Interactive online learning opens up a two-way street between the learner and the teacher. It is the opposite to linear online learning, where information is merely sent and received. Instead, learners can get more hands on and take control of learning. Similarly, teachers are also able to switch things up in line with feedback from learners.
Synchronous Online Learning
In synchronous online learning, a group of individuals take part in a learning experience or activity at the same time. This can still be carried out remotely through video calls or webchats, which allow for interaction with an instructor or other participants.
Synchronous online learning is a particularly effective way of delivering a classroom-based experience. It can to deliver training country-wide, or indeed across the world, without taking away the human touch.
Asynchronous Online Learning
Asynchronous online learning gives learners the flexibility and freedom to learn at any time, wherever they are. This type of eLearning can be used in self-paced learning programmes, where participants do not have to learn in conjunction with others at a specific time. Instead, they can pick and choose when and how they learn, using a range of different mediums to consolidate and demonstrate their learning.
Collaborative Online Learning
In collaborative online learning, learners work together to achieve an objective through either group work or projects. This type of learning has long since been used in traditional classrooms and on-site training. But with the rise in videoconferencing, collaborative learning can now take place effectively online too.
While the above list is not exhaustive, it offers a good starting point for those looking to invest in eLearning solutions. That being said, if all these definitions concepts have you in a spin, check out our Complete Guide To eLearning Buzzwords.
What Are The Benefits Of eLearning?
There are a huge number of benefits to using eLearning as part of your L&D strategy. These include:
Flexibility
As we have seen, virtual learning is a very flexible medium for delivering training. Courses can be made to be either collaborative or self-directed, with personalization to cater to different learners. What’s more, eLearning doesn’t have to be carried out in one place, such as a classroom or an office. Instead, it can be consumed anywhere, on any type of device. This offers a big advantage to hybrid, remote and distributed workforces that may struggle to co-ordinate training due different time zones or not being able to get everyone in the same room at the same time.
Cost-Effectiveness
Training can be costly, especially when done face-to-face in a physical location. Alongside course materials and on-site instructors, other costs can include travel, accommodation, catering and time spent away from work. It’s also a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way of operating. This is because it doesn’t rely on individuals having to move around to take part.
eLearning presents a cost-effective alternative to face-to-face training that, if done right, doesn’t compromise on quality.
Return On Investment
There’s a reason around 40% of Fortune 500 companies use eLearning, and that’s because it gets results! In fact, according to eLearning Industry, 72% of businesses believe eLearning is responsible for keeping them ahead of their competitors. What’s more, 42% of companies say eLearning has led to an increase in their revenue!
When done right, eLearning has the potential to make training and upskilling employees quicker, easier, more effective and more profitable in the future. We can’t think of a more compelling argument than that!
It Appeals To Learners
We all use tech in our day to day lives, both in work and outside of it. For this reason, eLearning will appeal to learners in a way that’s familiar to them. Video has shown to be one of the most effective mediums for learners. This is, in part, because it can mirror classroom-based training while offering flexibility to users.
Organizations, too, can harness this power. For example, we have developed a video streaming platform that gives you the power to manage, promote and share content in a similar way to familiar platforms such as Netflix and YouTube. This is achieved by grouping video content into box sets, which can be used to explore topics in more depth and deepen a learner’s understanding.
How Is eLearning Delivered?
While all of the above sounds fantastic in theory, how do organizations make eLearning work in practice? There are a number of ways in which eLearning can be set up and delivered. Many of these options also include powerful analytics tools, which can help you understand who is engaging with what and when.
LMS (Learning Management System)
An LMS is probably one of the most popular ways to deliver eLearning. These systems were masterminded in the late 1990’s. Since then, have become the first port of call for L&D teams and eLearning programs.
As technology has come on leaps and bounds, so has the LMS. There are a wide range of options to consider, ranging from out-of-the-box and bespoke to cloud or installation-based.
Crucially, an LMS is a system through which all eLearning can be rolled out, whether that’s off-the-shelf courses or bespoke content made through an authoring too. It can also assess and track a learner’s progress, giving you a bird’s eye view of what’s working for your employees.
LXP (Learning Experience Platform)
An LXP is a learner-led learning platform that gives control back to the user. While an LMS can track a learner’s journey, an LXP utilises different technologies, such as AI and machine learning, to offer an engaging learning experience that is tailored to the user’s preferences, learning styles and goals.
Organizations looking to roll out an eLearning initiative, or enhance their existing one, may wonder which is better: an LMS or an LXP? The truth is, each one comes with its advantages. For organizations looking to improving the learning experiences they offer, an LXP is a fantastic choice which can help create more focused, engaging and effective learning paths. On the other hand, an LMS gives administrators a platform through which they can roll out eLearning courses while monitoring engagement and progress.
While learning management systems and learning experience platforms provide a space for eLearning to live, there are also different types of eLearning content to consider. These include bespoke eLearning content and off-the-shelf eLearning courses.
While both can be used within an LMS or LXP, there are pros and cons to both off the shelf courses and bespoke content.
Getting Started With Online Learning
Online and virtual learning can be highly valuable for businesses – when done in the right way. If you’re looking to shake up your eLearning offering, or build a whole new strategy from scratch, we can help! We are specialists in creating bespoke eLearning solutions for businesses, ranging from Learning Management Systems and Learning Experience Platforms to bespoke and off-the-shelf eLearning content and learning experiences.
To see our work in action, check out our Projects or contact us for a chat around your requirements and to find out what we can do for you!