The term e-learning (or electronic learning) means electronic learning or electronically supported learning, i.e. the use of technology to provide training or learning materials. It is a method that supplements or even replaces the traditional seminar through the introduction of e-learning and the use of digital media and tools as a course.
There are many reasons why e-learning is becoming increasingly popular in knowledge transfer, particularly through the use of learning platforms. You will find the most important ones in the following list:
Traditional learning is often tied to fixed times and locations, which offers users less freedom. They have to stick to a set training schedule and attend a specific location in person, unless it is a hybrid learning format. This can be a challenge for many people, especially working people or parents.
However, e-learning enables them to achieve their learning goals without neglecting their daily commitments or having to travel long distances. Thus, compared to the traditional way of learning (e.g. via presentation in a seminar), a computer-based training course offers greater multimedia, interactivity and accessibility, which enables many people to acquire knowledge more effectively and in a more self-determined way.
Traditional training and further education is often associated with considerable costs. These include travel costs to the seminar location and possibly accommodation costs for those who do not live near the event. In addition, institutions that use traditional training methods may have higher expenses for building maintenance, training staff and other resources.
A digital learning environmentA learning environment is a digital learning space that is characterized by content, technologies, interaction... More A digital learning environment, on the other hand, provides access to digital materials and courses, reducing or even eliminating many of these costs. This makes it more affordable for learners to achieve their learning goals and more cost-effective for educational institutions to provide high-quality e-learning content. Overall, e-learning offers significant cost savings for all parties involved compared to traditional forms of learning.
Have you ever sat in a learning event where you were hopelessly over- or under-challenged? Adapting to individual needs and learning speed is often difficult in traditional learning environments and can impair the effectiveness of the learning process.
In contrast, e-learning (or, to a lesser extent, blended learning) allows participants to train at their own pace and adapt the learning material to their personal needs and abilities. This promotes an individualized learning experience that caters to the strengths and weaknesses of the individual and allows them to work on specific topics or skills. Therefore, eLearning offers an attractive alternative to traditional forms of learning, promoting a more personalized and effective learning experience.
There are different forms of e-learning, depending on how and when the learning takes place and which technologies are used.
Synchronous and asynchronous e-learning are two main forms of online training that differ in terms of communication methods, learner interaction and self-learning opportunities, making e-learning increasingly effective. In a more precise sense, a combination of both types is a derivative of blended learning. In the following explanation, however, we will discuss the respective advantages, disadvantages and suitable use cases separately.
Synchronous e-learning refers to online learning activities that take place in real time. Learners and course instructors interact simultaneously in e-learning via virtual communication channels such as video or audio conferences, chats or webinars.
Asynchronous e-learning offers participants access to course materials and activities at any time and allows them to complete the course at their own pace. This includes access to pre-recorded videos, texts, discussion forums and online tests.
Overall, the choice between synchronous and asynchronous e-learning depends on the individual needs and circumstances of the learners as well as the specific requirements of the learning program. A combination of both approaches (digital blended learning) can often be the best solution to combine a versatile and effective learning experience.
Overall, the choice between synchronous and asynchronous e-learning depends on the individual needs and circumstances of the learners as well as the specific requirements of the learning program. A combination of both approaches (digital blended learning) can often be the best solution to combine a versatile and effective learning experience.
Definition: CBT is a form of e-learning in which learning content stored locally on the learner's computer and accessed without an internet connection.
Definition: WBT is a form of e-learning in which learning content provided via the Internet and accessed by users via web browsers.
When deciding between CBT and WBT, the following factors should be considered:
In order to achieve optimal learning outcomes, the following best practices should be implemented in the e-learning handbook for both approaches:
The choice between CBT and WBT depends on the specific requirements of the training program and the needs of the learners within the e-learning offerings, and face-to-face sessions should also be considered. Careful consideration of the above factors and implementation of best practices can help ensure an effective and successful e-learning experience.
Mobile learning, also known as m-learning, is a form of e-learning that enables access to educational resources via mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. In the course of the global pandemic situation, m-learning has established itself as an important method for maintaining education and training opportunities.
Overall, mobile learning offers a variety of benefits and applications, especially in the current pandemic situation. Despite some drawbacks, mobile devices can play an important role in distributing flexible and accessible development opportunities to participants around the world.
These categories and the respective examples are geared towards different target groups and learning needs and expand the possibilities of e-learning in different areas and age groups.
Despite the many benefits, e-learning also has some potential drawbacks, such as technical difficulties, lack of feedback and control, and the need for self-motivation and discipline. However, these challenges can be overcome by designing user-friendly interfaces, using gamification to increase motivation and offering opportunities for collaborative learningCollaborative learning is a collaborative process in which learners work together through... More can be minimized.
E-learning can be used in various business scenarios, such as onboarding new employees, compliance training, leadership development or upskilling and reskilling. For each of these scenarios, e-learning brings certain benefits, such as the ability to train a large number of employees quickly and efficiently, to ensure that all employees are up to date with the latest regulatory requirements, or to allow managers to improve their skills at their own pace.
There are many successful examples of e-learning programs in the industry. For example, technology company IBM has implemented an e-learning program called the Digital Badge Program, which allows employees to earn digital badges for learning new skills. Another example is the pharmaceutical company Novartis, which has implemented an e-learning program to improve the product knowledge of its sales staff.
In summary, it can be said that e-learning is a valuable tool for personnel development in companies. With the right strategy and implementation, it can help to improve learning outcomes and increase efficiency and productivity.
