30 Current Trends in E Learning

Ms. Sunita Jain

Unit Structure.

29.1 Introduction

29.2 What is E Learning?

29.3 Current Trends in E Learning

29.4.1 Mobile Learning

29.4.2 MOOCs

29.4.3 Social media

29.4.4 HTML5

29.4.5 Cloud – based learning

29.4.6 Gamification

29.4.7 Benefits of Current Trends in E Learning

29.5 Let us sum up

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After going through this module the learner will be able to:

1) To understand the meaning of E Learning

2) To comprehend the Current Trends in E Learning

3) To understand the meaning, application and advantages of Mobile Learning

4) To understand the meaning, characteristics and advantages of MOOCs

5) To comprehend the meaning, application and benefits of Social media

6) To understand the meaning, rules established and benefits of HTML5

7) To comprehend the meaning application and benefits of Cloud-based learning

8) To understand the meaning and benefits of Gamification

9) To be aware of the benefits of Current Trends in E Learning

29.1 INTRODUCTION

This digitalized global era has marked a renaissance in teaching learning process. There is a paradigm shift from the traditional method to modern methods of learning and newer pedagogies growing in leaps and bounds. The opportunities for online learning have grown tremendously in recent years. Interestingly, there seems to be more ways to participate in active learning. The focus is learner oriented and user friendly. Collaborative and co-operative learning environments and learning building blocks are the buzz words. There is a high demand of adaptable, flexible and open learning. To cater to all these Multimedia has been harnessed. E learning has thus become part of holistic, ongoing and continuous learning solutions. It is being blended skillfully with traditional methods to deliver cost-effective, personalized learning solutions that integrate effortlessly into our lives.

Do you know??

Education Sector Fact book 2012, eLearning is expected to grow at an average of 23% in the years 2013-2017.

29.2 WHAT IS E LEARNING?

E-learning (or eLearning) is the use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. E-learning is broadly inclusive of all forms of educational technology in and teaching and learning. E-learning is broadly synonymous with multimedia learning, internet-based training (IBT), technology-enhanced learning (TEL), computer-based instruction (CBI), computer managed instruction, computer-based training (CBT), computer-assisted instruction or computer-aided instruction (CAI), online education, virtual education, virtual learning environments (VLE) (which are also called learning platforms), web-based training (WBT), m-learning, and digital educational collaboration.

E-learning continues to grow within the educational and corporate sectors. Computers and other mobile devices are becoming gradually essential as educational tools. Technologies are becoming more user-friendly and cost-effective. One size doesn’t fit all. So it has become imperative in recent years to look critically at the diverse learning capabilities and accordingly adapt and adopt those training. The emphasis is now on individual skill development which overall leads to effective outcomes.

Change is the essence of the society. So it is with e Learning. It never allows itself to remain obsolete. There are rapid changes and development in the field of e learning leading to many current trends.

29.3 CURRENT TRENDS IN E LEARNING

According to Comscore, in 2014 “the number of mobile users will exceed the number of desktop users for the first time.” This means that the access points will be mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, which are bound to become more powerful and smarter than ever. Our vocabulary has been enriched with words, phrases and acronyms, such as Mobile Learning, Tin Can API, HTML5, Gamification, and MOOC, and every day there is a new eLearning trend and a new eLearning technology designed around it.

Were you mistaken thinking Tin Can is to store something!!!!

The Tin Can API, now officially known as “Experience API” (xAPI), is an e-learning software specification that allows learning content and learning systems to speak to each other in a manner that records and tracks all types of learning experiences.

29.4.1 MOBILE LEARNING

Mobile Learning refers to digital learning resources which include any form of content or media made available on a personal device. Today’s technology allows users to carry the large numbers of resources in their pockets and to access them wherever they find it suitable in ways of using portable devices. Mobile learning or m-learning is the design and delivery of eLearning course through mobile devices, such as handheld and tablet computers, MP3 players, smartphones and mobile phones.

Mobile learning offers modern ways to support teaching learning process. It presents unique features compared to conventional e-learning: collaborative, interactive, personal, portable, contextual and situated, it emphasizes “just-in-time-learning” as instruction can be delivered anywhere and at anytime through it. Moreover, it is a form of resource to formal, non – formal and informal learning and thus holds huge potential to accelerate the delivery of education and training.

Applications of Mobile Learning

Miniature but portable e-learning – Mobile, wireless, and handheld technologies are used as a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). It is flexible and is good alternative for static desktop technologies. Its distinctive miniature feature makes it very convenient for the user to travel with it at any time and any place.
Informal, personalized, situated mobile learning – Technologies are further enhanced with additional features, for example location identification through GPS (the Global Positioning System uses satellites to help users to navigate with accuracy) or video-capture, and organized to deliver educational experiences that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. This makes it more informal, personalized and enhances situated learning.
Connected classroom learning –Mobile learning connects classroom technologies such as interactive whiteboards. There are facilities of interactive textbooks to make learning interesting and permanent. Mobile devices allow students to gather, access, and process information outside the classroom also thus encourage learning in a real-world context.
Cater to remote and rural areas – The technologies are used to overcome environmental and infrastructural challenges. It delivers and supports teaching learning process where conventional e-learning technologies would otherwise fail. It caters to remote rural distant places which otherwise would have been difficult to access.
Just-in-time training –Mobile learning has transcended time and space. Learning has become quick and immediate. There is no time lag and that is why it is possible in training personnel’s with updated information and expertise. It provides with real time communication updates also.

Advantages of Mobile Learning

1) Encourage ‘anywhere, anytime’ learning

A major benefit of using wireless mobile technology is to reach people who live in remote locations where there are no school infrastructure, teachers, laboratories and libraries. The synergy between mobile learning and distance learning holds enormous potential.

2) Just-in-time learning

Just-in-time learning encourages high level as well as quick learning since learner’s access and applies the information right away rather than learns the information and then applies the information at a later time. Educators and trainers are empowered since they can use the mobile technology to communicate with learners immediately. It allows for more rapid and dynamic update of course content.

3) Reach economically backward children

It is affordable and user friendly. So even economically backward children can benefit a lot from it.

4) Reach differently able children

Students with learning difficulties and differently able students benefit greatly from mobile learning. It gives them opportunities to feel more like their peers, and foster a sense of normalcy. This is very important for social development when we are trying to mainstream all categories of children.

5) Improve twenty-first century social interactions

Mobile technologies have the ability to promote and foster collaboration and communication, which are essential for twenty-first century success. Mobile technologies provide prospects for more personalized and self-directed learning. This shift in pedagogy is a vital step in maximizing the potential benefits of mobile learning.

6) Fit with learning environments

Mobile devices can help overcome many of the challenges associated with larger technologies, as they fit more naturally within various learning environments. For instance, one can use the dictionary and thesaurus on Dictionary.com, explore the world with Google Earth, or plot equations with Quick Graph, create your own stories with Story Kit, and find out about the latest space missions with the NASA app. These, and many others, are free downloads that are ideal for educators to use with their students in school.

7) Caters to individual difference

Each child has a unique learning style. There cannot be a rigid tailor made course for all. Instruction should be catering and adaptable to individual and diverse learners. Mobile learning has significant opportunities for supporting differentiated, autonomous, and individualized learning through mobile devices.

29.4.2 MOOCs

A recent advancement in the field of distance education is the arrival of Massive Open Online Courses or MOOCs which aim at providing vast participation via open resources available on the internet. Provided by prominent Universities and other institutes of higher learning, it focuses at providing quality education and certified courses to students, teachers and professors using videos, animations, web-tutorials and any other resources which can be availed on the net.

The defining characteristic of the MOOC is that it is a course. And therefore follows all the basic characteristics of being a course. It has an instructor, is affiliated to a college or a University, it has course work to be completed, assignments to be submitted and an evaluation process. And ultimately, one gets a certificate. MOOCs enhance user-friendliness, student engagement, and experiences for lifelong learning.

Characteristics

MOOCs are built on the characteristics of massiveness, openness, and a connectivist philosophy.

Massiveness: MOOCs is open online course for all. It can easily accommodate large numbers of students. It is accessible at any place and at any time. This makes its dimensions even larger.

Openness: MOOC is open to following aspects: the software used is open-source, registration is open to anyone, the curriculum is open, the sources of information are open, the assessment processes and the learners are open to a range of different learning environments.

Connectivism: In MOOCs an instructor assume the role of facilitator and stage setter with learners actively interacting with other students. Active engagement and interaction are the key elements which keep the students connected.

Advantages:

Virtual accessibility to the best Universities:

One can take up a course from Harvard, Yale, Stanford and Princeton without having to step out of one’s home. The potential participants can log in from anywhere and can take the benefit of online courses.

Student Engagement:

Student engagement is essential for better participation and motivation. It facilitates conducive environment for the learner to learn wholeheartedly. They have the flexibility of attending course modules at their own space and time.

Lifelong Learning Experiences:

Educational opportunities are created for all. There is no age bar. People from all walks of life can enrol for the courses.

29.4.3 SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media has become an indispensable part of human life today. It offers a variety of prospects to learn and interact. Teaching-Learning calls for continuous advancement. This paves the way to newer practices to be engaged by blending conventional methods with new technologies. Social media based teaching and learning is one of the ways of doing it.

Applications:

using Facebook to provide advanced materials, conduct intersession activities, and build learning communities
creating blogs for additional learning information
creating wikis for learning resources
creating discussion groups around specific topics
using Twitter for introductions, pre-training preparation and instruction, conversations, debates, reflecting, brainstorming, and polls
using YouTube for learning through videos

Benefits of Social Learning

1) Enhanced learning experience

Social media is very popular among the youngsters. It has become a part of their daily life. So when learning is infused through social media it effortlessly seeps into them without an added load. It gives a platform to provide an enhanced learning experience for the students.

2) Continuous Learning

Social media based learning is available at any time and any place. Learners can access through technological devices like PC and if they are travelling they can make use of mobile devices. It improves the scope of discussion and doubt clarification since it is free from time and physical barriers.

3) Reinforcement and motivational learning

The theories of learning emphasizes on reinforcement and motivation for permanent learning. Social media can be used as a tool for learning reinforcement and motivating them by constant feedback on their progress

4) Improved participation

Social media gives a virtual platform to all the participants to share their views and ideas. It is specially a boon for the introvert learners who otherwise would not come out of their comfortable zone in public. It encourages all to voice their opinion. In the bargain there is increased participation among the learners. These all further develops collaboration and co-operation skills.

5) Blending provides value-added experience

Blending social media tools like Facebook, Blogs, YouTube, Wikipedia, Twitter with in-house learning management systems or e-learning tools like MOODLE adds to the overall teaching-learning quotient. Blending by catering to the needs of the learner will be optimally enriched and provide value added experiences to the learners.

6) Facelift

Social media provides the needed facelift to the conventional teaching-learning domain by bringing in more interaction, better understanding and bigger learning takeaways for the lecturer as well as the learner.

29.4.4 HTML5

HTML5 is the latest standard for HTML. HTML5 is designed to replace HTML 4, XHTML, and the HTML DOM Level 2. HTML5 supports scalable vector graphics, which means that e-learning content can be responsive to the learner.

It is specially designed to deliver rich content without the need for additional plug-in. The current version delivers everything from animation to graphics, music to movies, and can also be used to build complicated web applications. All major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Safari, and Opera) support the new HTML5 elements and APIs, and continue to add new HTML5 features to their latest versions.

Some rules for HTML5 were established:

New features should be based on HTML, CSS, DOM, and JavaScript
The need for external plug ins (like Flash) should be reduced
Error handling should be easier than in previous versions
Scripting has to be replaced by more markup
HTML5 should be device-independent
The development process should be visible to the public

Benefits:

1. Highly interactive

HTML5 makes websites and other social network sites like Facebook and Twitter highly interactive through fluid animations, stream video, and play music into the websites. Before this, Flash or JavaScript like tools were used which used to consume much time to develop and even the complexities of web application were increased. But now with the help of HTML5 it is possible to embed video and audio, high quality drawings, charts and animation and many other rich content without using any plug in and third party programmes as the functionality is built into the browser.

2. Cleaner markup / Improved Code

HTML5 enable web designers to use cleaner, neater code, we can remove most div tags and replace them with semantic HTML5 elements.

3. Improved Semantics

Now it is easy to see which parts of the page are headers, footers, aside, etc as the tags are specific for these all and most importantly know what their meaning and purpose is in whole the format. By using HTML5 elements we can increase the semantic value of the web page as the codes are very standardized.

4. Consistency

HTML5 elements are greater consistent in terms of the HTML used to code a web page on one site compared to another. This makes it easier for designers and developers to immediately understand how a web page is structured.

5. Easier Application

Many new features and standards have emerged as part of HTML5. Main focus of HTML5 is to make easier application with easy front-ends, drag and drop tools, discussion boards, wikis and other useful elements.

6. Offline Application cache

While building the site, the developer can specify the files that the browser should cache. So, even when we refresh the page and are offline, the page will still load correctly. This sort of caching has several advantages like offline browsing; files load much faster and reduced load on server.

29.4.5 CLOUD – BASED LEARNING

The cloud based learning technology offers a new way to deliver education as an online service accessed from a web browser. The trend is quickly evolving into a premium learning platform for data storage and exchange in educational institutions by using “cloud -based” applications.

It provides delivery of services, software and processing capacity over internet, reducing cost, increasing automating systems and providing flexibility and mobility of information.

Cloud-based learning management systems are hosted on the Internet and can be accessed by logging into a service provider’s site. Rather than having to install course design and management software, instructional designers can simply use their Internet browsers to upload course content, create new courses, and communicate with learners directly.

This is all done through a secure LMS, which also gives designers the ability to store information on the cloud, which can be remotely accessed by other, approved users.

Applications:

1) Group Projects

Multiple users to work on the same projects can log in simultaneously, each from the comfort of their own homes and work together. The entire project can be completed in a digital format at a faster pace. The chances of errors also get minimized because it’s always under the surveillance of each participant.

2) Connected Classrooms

Cloud based technology clubbed with the help of webcams and microphones have brought the world connected and closer.

3) Interactive Lectures

Cloud-based classroom tools have the added bonus of mobile access, keeping people connected wherever they may go. Teachers can create assignments and projects, and students can access and work on them from a smart phone or other compatible mobile device. People are constantly connected thanks to the popularity of mobile devices.

4) Learner Management

Cloud based programs like LiveSchool allow the information for all the currently enrolled students to be kept in a single digital cloud. Instead of digging through a dusty overfilled filing cabinet for information on a student, a teacher or administrator merely needs to search his or her last name in the data base, and all of that information is available at their fingertips. This makes things like assigning classes, managing problem students, and keeping track of attendance and other variables much easier.

Cloud-based Learning Benefits

1) Improved accessibility

Cloud-based LMSs offer better accessibility for both learners and course designers. Learners are able to learn anywhere and anytime. Rather than relying solely upon software-based courses, they can simply log in to their account and begin learning new skill sets and expanding their knowledge base, without limitations.

2) More storage space

One of the most significant advantages to using a cloud-based LMS is that one does need to store information on their computer or device. All of the data, including images and content, will be uploaded directly to the cloud storage space, which frees up space on our devices. Other users, such as collaborators and content creators, will also be able to share information with ease, given that it’s being stored on a remote (and secure) server. We need not worry about information being lost due to corrupted hard drives or permanently deleted computer file since eLearning data will be stored on the cloud.

3) Real-time collaborative editing

Speaking of collaboration, the cloud–with products including Adobe Buzzword, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Google Docs–makes sharing, viewing, and real-time collaborative editing of media not only possible, but engaging and, at times, spectacular. It is fully customizable and scalable.

4) Lower start up costs

There is no software to purchase so cloud-based LMSs have lower initial costs.

29.4.6 GAMIFICATION

Visit the site for free online educational games!!!

http://learnenglishkids.britishcouncil.org/en/

Visit the site and play a game (though it is meant for kids) and share your experiences by answering the following questions!!

Was it fun?

Did you learn?

Were you evaluated?

Did you experience the ‘wow’ factor every time you gave the correct answer?

Do you want to learn more through this methodology?

Gamification is the process of using game thinking and game dynamics in order to engage audiences and think analytically. It is not a new trend, but rather one that will certainly evolve. It’s a powerful tool that enables technological innovation, develops student/learner skills, crafts behaviours and enhances problem solving. It has proven to be an invaluable tool to improve employee performance, upgrade education, customer engagement, as well as personal development.

Game tools and mechanics can be used to make learning more interesting and engaging. It has the potential of delivering significant experiences to students and offering them challenges and goals to work toward. Students are then rewarded for their hard work and effort as though they would while playing a computer or video game. Through incorporating learning into gaming, students can learn much of the same content as they would through traditional teaching methods with better zeal.

In addition to being fun, gamification offers other key benefits.

It can engage learners of all ages.

The fun aspect creates less resistance to learning.

It can be used to teach a variety of subjects.

It’s suited to different domains of learning, including knowledge, skills, attitudes, and beliefs.

It encourages experimentation, which often leads to innovative thinking.

It’s less stressful than traditional learning with lectures and formal tests.

It can be used to encourage a competitive spirit and teamwork.

Whether your gamification strategy includes video games, games of chance, role play and adventure, simulations, building and construction, or puzzles, you can be sure that it offers a strong engagement element to your training approach.

Crunch more!!

Download more educational games from http://smart-educational-games.en.softonic.com/

29.4 BENEFITS OF CURRENT TRENDS IN E LEARNING

Continuous learning

E Learning is developing into a key component in providing scope to continuous learning. It has transcended time and space. Learners have added flexibility in choosing up their own course based on their own aptitude and skills. They can access anytime and anywhere. These have opened wider avenues to all kinds of people from all walks of life. The pervasive and holistic nature of e learning has brought about a paradigm shift in teaching learning process.

Chunks will become ‘byte size’

Forget the good old days when learners had to always carry loads of heavy books with them. They had to bear the burden of the weight and size. Moreover they used to spend hours together in library in search of references and study material.

With the advancement and development in e learning, learners can access to all kinds of valuable resources in seconds click. Moreover they need not worry about size of content since it chunks can be stored in byte size.

This is a boon to the 21st century generation since it helps in conservation of resources. Save paper, safe generation!!

Content creation will get faster, more leveraged and cheaper

Today e learning with the use of rich media has made it possible to develop engaging cost-effective content by using rapid authoring tools (that provide strong, template-driven outputs). It is worth noting that video has experienced a renaissance in learning, particularly through the growing usage of YouTube and initiatives such as TED Talks.

Strategically integrating short video and motion graphics into e learning solutions can create greater engagement, provide best practice examples and quickly explain concepts in a memorable, entertaining way.

Caters to Individual differences

Each individual is gifted by its unique learning styles. E learning excites learners from all age groups and caters to their individual differences. The rich multimedia helps to cater to all the senses of the learners resulting in efficient learning. Collaborative Learning, continuous feedback and adaptive design add further to connect them to the outside world.

29.5 LET US SUM UP

E-learning (or eLearning) is the use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. E-learning is broadly inclusive of all forms of educational technology in and teaching and learning. Mobile Learning, Tin Can API, HTML5, Gamification, and MOOC, are some of the new eLearning providing new eLearning technology.

Mobile learning:

Mobile learning or m-learning is the design and delivery of eLearning course through mobile devices, such as handheld and tablet computers, MP3 players, Smartphone and mobile phones.

Applications of Mobile Learning:

Miniature but portable e-learning

Connected classroom learning

Informal, personalized, situated mobile learning Cater to remote and rural areas

Just-in-time training

Advantages of Mobile Learning:

Encourage ‘anywhere, anytime’ learning

Just-in-time learning

Reach economically backward children

Reach differently able children

Improve twenty-first century social interactions

Fit with learning environments

Caters to individual difference

MOOCs

Massive Open Online Courses or MOOCs aim at providing unlimited participation via open resources available on the internet.

Characteristics of MOOCs:

Massiveness

Openness

Connectivist philosophy

Advantages of MOOCs:

Virtual accessibility to the best Universities:

Student Engagement

Lifelong Learning Experiences

Social media

Social media has become an inseparable part of human life today. It offers a variety of opportunities to learn and interact.

Applications:

using Facebook

using Twitter

using YouTube

creating blogs

creating wikis

creating discussion

creating more immersive learning environments

Benefits of Social Learning:

Enhanced learning experience

Continuous learning

Reinforcement and motivational learning

Improved participation

Blending provides value-added experience

Facelift

HTML5

Some rules for HTML5 were established:

New features should be based on HTML, CSS, DOM, and JavaScript

The need for external plug ins (like Flash) should be reduced

Error handling should be easier than in previous versions

Scripting has to be replaced by more markup

HTML5 should be device-independent

The development process should be visible to the public

Benefits of HTML5:

Highly interactive

Cleaner markup / Improved Code

Improved Semantics

Consistency

Easier Application

Offline Application cache

Cloud based learning

Applications of Cloud based learning:

Group Projects

Connected Classrooms

Interactive Lectures

Learner Management

Cloud-based Learning Benefits:

Improved accessibility

More storage space

Real-time collaborative editing

Lower start up costs

Gamification:

Gamification is the process of using game thinking and game dynamics in order to engage audiences and think analytically. It’s a powerful tool that enables technological innovation, develops student/learner skills, crafts behaviours and enhances problem solving.

In addition to being fun, Gamification offers other key benefits.

It can engage learners of all ages.

The fun aspect creates less resistance to learning.

It can be used to teach a variety of subjects.

It is suited to different domains of learning, including knowledge, skills, attitudes, and beliefs.

It encourages experimentation, which often leads to innovative thinking.

It’s less stressful than traditional learning with lectures and formal tests.

It can be used to encourage a competitive spirit and teamwork.

you can view video on CURRENT TRENDS IN E LEARNING

REFERENCE

1) http://www.docebo.com/landing/contactform/elearning-market-trends-and-forecast-2014-2016-docebo-report.pdf

2) http://www.asaecenter.org/Resources/ANowDetail.cfm?ItemNumber=135909

3) http://deakinprime.com/news-and-publications/news/elearning,-future-trends/

4) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tin_Can_API

5) http://www.w3schools.com/html/html5_intro.asp

6) http://www.timesofoman.com/News/35172/Article-Social-media-based-teaching-and-learning

7) http://elearningindustry.com/8-top-benefits-of-using-a-cloud-based-lms

8) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamification

9) http://elearninginfographics.com/10-mind-blowing-mobile-learning-statistics-infographic/

10) http://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3754742