{"id":302,"date":"2019-04-09T04:29:12","date_gmt":"2019-04-09T04:29:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/ae01.epgpbooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/?post_type=chapter&p=302"},"modified":"2019-04-09T06:45:53","modified_gmt":"2019-04-09T06:45:53","slug":"current-trends-in-e-learning","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in\/ae01\/chapter\/current-trends-in-e-learning\/","title":{"rendered":"Current Trends in E Learning"},"content":{"raw":" \r\n
\"epgp<\/a>\r\n<\/span><\/div>\r\nUnit Structure.<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n29.1\u00a0Introduction\r\n\r\n29.2\u00a0What is E Learning?\r\n\r\n29.3\u00a0Current Trends in E Learning\r\n\r\n29.4.1\u00a0Mobile Learning\r\n\r\n29.4.2\u00a0MOOCs\r\n\r\n29.4.3\u00a0Social media\r\n\r\n29.4.4\u00a0HTML5\r\n\r\n29.4.5\u00a0Cloud \u2013 based learning\r\n\r\n29.4.6\u00a0Gamification\r\n\r\n29.4.7\u00a0Benefits of Current Trends in E Learning\r\n\r\n29.5 Let us sum up\r\n
\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nAfter going through this module the learner will be able to:\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n1)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To understand the meaning of E Learning\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n2)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To comprehend the Current Trends in E Learning\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n3)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To understand the meaning, application and advantages of Mobile Learning\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n4)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To understand the meaning, characteristics and advantages of MOOCs\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n5)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To comprehend the meaning, application and benefits of Social media\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n6)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To understand the meaning, rules established and benefits of HTML5\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n7)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To comprehend the meaning application and benefits of Cloud-based learning\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n8)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To understand the meaning and benefits of Gamification\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n9)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To be aware of the benefits of Current Trends in E Learning\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n \r\n\r\n29.1\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 INTRODUCTION<\/strong>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nDo you know??<\/em><\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nEducation Sector Fact book 2012, eLearning is expected to grow at an average of 23% in the years 2013-2017.<\/em>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n29.2<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 WHAT IS E LEARNING?<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

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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\u00a0forms 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.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

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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\u2019t 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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n29.3 CURRENT TRENDS IN E LEARNING<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

According to Comscore, in 2014 \"the number of mobile users will exceed the number of<\/em> desktop users for the first time<\/em>.\" 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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nWere you mistaken thinking Tin Can is to store something!!!!<\/em>\r\n\r\n \r\n

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.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n\u00a0<\/em>\r\n\r\n29.4.1 MOBILE LEARNING<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

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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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

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 \u2013 formal and informal learning and thus holds huge potential to accelerate the delivery of education and training.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nApplications of Mobile Learning<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

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  1. Miniature but portable e-learning \u2013 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.<\/li>\r\n \t
  2. Informal, personalized, situated mobile learning \u2013 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.<\/li>\r\n \t
  3. Connected classroom learning \u2013Mobile 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.<\/li>\r\n \t
  4. Cater to remote and rural areas \u2013 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.<\/li>\r\n \t
  5. Just-in-time training \u2013Mobile 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\u2019s with updated information and expertise. It provides with real time communication updates also.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
    \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nAdvantages of Mobile Learning<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n1) Encourage \u2018anywhere, anytime\u2019 learning<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

    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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n2) Just-in-time learning<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

    Just-in-time learning encourages high level as well as quick learning since learner\u2019s 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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n3) Reach economically backward children<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nIt is affordable and user friendly. So even economically backward children can benefit a lot from it.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n4) Reach differently able children<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

    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.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n \r\n\r\n5) Improve twenty-first century social interactions<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

    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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n6) Fit with learning environments<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

    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<\/em>, explore the world with Google Earth<\/em>, or plot equations with Quick Graph<\/em>, create your own stories with Story Kit,<\/em> and find out about the latest space missions with the NASA app<\/em>. These, and many others, are free downloads that are ideal for educators to use with their students in school.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n7) Caters to individual difference<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nEach 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.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n29.4.2 MOOCs<\/strong>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

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    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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

    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.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n

    \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nCharacteristics<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nMOOCs are built on the characteristics of massiveness, openness, and a connectivist philosophy.\r\n\r\n \r\n

    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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

    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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n

    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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nAdvantages:<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nVirtual accessibility to the best Universities:\r\n\r\n \r\n

    One can take up a course from Harvard, Yale, Stanford and Princeton without having to step out of one\u2019s home. The potential participants can log in from anywhere and can take the benefit of online courses.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nStudent Engagement:<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

    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.<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\nLifelong Learning Experiences:<\/strong>\r\n\r\n \r\n

    Educational opportunities are created for all. There is no age bar. People from all walks of life can enrol for the courses.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n \r\n\r\n29.4.3 SOCIAL MEDIA<\/strong>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

    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.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

    \r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nApplications:<\/strong>\r\n