eLearning is a 21st-century industry that allows education without physical presence. eLearning doesn’t follow the traditional learning pattern of having to necessarily go to a classroom of students to listen to a lecture by a teacher in order to get some education. Its formal definition if you search for it is “learning conducted via electronic media, typically on the Internet”.
When did it start?
Online learning as a concept has started along with the rise of computers and the internet, but the term “eLearning” has only been in existence since 1999 when the word was first introduced at a CBT systems seminar in Los Angeles. In search of an accurate description, other words such as “online learning” and “virtual learning” were considered and used.
What are the benefits of eLearning?
eLearning is one of the most cost-effective and flexible ways to share knowledge. It offers its users the ability to share content in all kinds of formats, in all kinds of topics. Except for the plain old text documents and PDFs, one can have access (and create) more interactive content such as videos, slideshows, and infographics. Moreover, conducting webinars (live online classes) is possible through eLearning. As for communication with professors, it can be done via chat and message forums.
Learning Management Systems
Yes, this is another term for you to know about. An LMS is an eLearning system which includes all the previous features we mentioned above. Not only does it allow for courses to be delivered, but it facilitates the whole learning process. LMSs (like Fir LMS) are often used by corporations to provide employee training courses.
Thus, eLearning is an affordable and convenient solution which provides learners with access to educational courses whenever and wherever it fits their schedule.