What Is eLearning? A Comprehensive Overview

eLearning has become the go-to method for education, and it is expected to stay ahead with its flexibility and personalized pace. Traditional classrooms, with their rigid schedules and limited access, just can't compete. Shifting to online education offers many benefits, including self-paced learning and the ability to acquire new skills any time from anywhere in the world. By breaking free from the constraints of the traditional classroom, eLearning is enhancing learning environments. In this article, we’ll cover the different types of eLearning, eLearning technologies, and some trends you can expect to see in eLearning.

What is eLearning?

eLearning, or electronic learning, is the process of learning and teaching through digital technologies. It involves using electronic devices, such as laptops and smartphones, to access educational content, complete assignments, and interact with instructors or other learners.

You might have heard of online learning, but it's different from eLearning. eLearning is the broader concept of acquiring knowledge or skills through study, experience, or being taught. It can happen anywhere, anytime, and through any learning method. Online learning is a specific type of learning that happens digitally, but it might not include all the interactive elements and structured guidance often found in eLearning.

Types of eLearning

There are many ways to deliver eLearning. Here, we'll talk about the different options.

Synchronous eLearning

Synchronous eLearning occurs in real-time, and it involves live interactions between learners and instructors or other learners. This type of eLearning often uses platforms like video conferencing or virtual classrooms. Participants must be available at the same time to engage in the learning process.

Asynchronous eLearning

Asynchronous eLearning is more independent—learners access online training content and complete other training programs at their own pace without real-time interaction. Asynchronous learning offers students flexibility through on-demand access to training materials. These resources, including audio/video lectures, handouts, articles, or PowerPoint presentations, are readily available via a learning management system (LMS) or eLearning platforms.

Blended learning

Blended learning combines both synchronous and asynchronous elements. It offers a mix of online courses and face-to-face instruction. This gives learners the flexibility of online learning, while also providing opportunities for in-person interaction and collaboration. Blended learning is often referred to as hybrid or mixed-mode learning.

Mobile learning

Mobile learning is eLearning accessed through mobile devices and tablets. It provides flexibility, allowing learners to access content and complete activities anytime, anywhere. This type of eLearning often uses responsive design to adapt content to different screen sizes.

Benefits of eLearning

eLearning offers many benefits which we cover below.

Accessibility and flexibility

The only requirement for eLearning is an internet connection. Learners don't need to travel to a physical classroom or make learning fit around their schedules. Learning materials can be accessed at work, home, or on the go.

Cost-effectiveness

eLearning is more economical than traditional classroom methods. By reducing expenses associated with physical infrastructure, travel, and printed materials, organizations and individuals can allocate resources more efficiently.

Increased engagement

eLearning is often more comprehensive than traditional learning. With videos, multimedia elements, gamification, and other interactive activities, learners stay more engaged and interested.

Scalability 

eLearning can reach many learners at once. A single course can be available to hundreds or even thousands of people, making it efficient for employee, customer, or partner training or educating any large group.

eLearning tools and technologies

eLearning relies on various technologies to deliver dynamic learning experiences. Let’s explore some key ones.

Learning management systems 

An LMS is a software platform that delivers, tracks, and manages online educational courses. It's the backbone of many eLearning programs. You can think of it as a virtual classroom where learners access course materials, complete assignments, take quizzes, and interact with instructors or peers. LMS platforms offer features like content authoring, user enrollment, progress tracking, and performance analytics. Organizations often prefer LMS platforms like Skilljar for their ability to centralize learning content, automate administrative tasks, and measure training effectiveness.

Authoring tools

Authoring tools allow individuals or teams to create eLearning content without extensive technical expertise. These tools provide user-friendly interfaces and pre-built templates to develop interactive courses, simulations, and assessments. They usually include features like drag-and-drop functionality, media integration, and publishing options.

Virtual classroom platforms

Virtual classroom platforms facilitate real-time instructor-led training and interaction. They enable live online sessions, including video conferencing, screen sharing, and collaborative tools. These platforms are essential for synchronous eLearning experiences, such as webinars, virtual workshops, and online tutoring. Organizations use virtual classroom platforms to deliver interactive training, conduct online meetings, and foster collaboration among learners.

Learn more about the different styles of eLearning in this webinar recap. 

Future trends in eLearning

Here are some key trends in the future of eLearning. 

Trend 1: Microlearning

Microlearning involves delivering small, focused bursts of learning content. Unlike traditional eLearning courses that often cover extensive topics, microlearning breaks down information into concise and easily digestible modules. These short learning experiences, typically lasting a few minutes, can be accessed on various devices, which makes it ideal for busy learners with limited time.

The rise of microlearning is driven by several factors. First, the increasing use of mobile devices has made it convenient to consume short-form content on the go. Second, the modern workforce demands continuous learning and skill development, and microlearning offers an efficient way to acquire new knowledge.

Trend 2: Interactive learning experiences

Interactive learning experiences shift the focus from passive consumption of content to active engagement. Instead of simply absorbing information, learners become active participants in the learning process. This approach is grounded in the belief that learners retain information better when they are actively involved in their learning.

Instead of traditional methods like reading text-heavy materials or passively watching videos, interactive learning encourages learners to interact with content through various means. This might involve simulations, quizzes, games, virtual labs, or collaborative projects.

Skilljar offers the best eLearning training options

Skilljar is an LMS that empowers businesses to create effective online learning experiences. Our solution goes beyond traditional course delivery by focusing on engagement, knowledge retention, and outcome measurement. With Skilljar, you can create personalized learning paths, incorporate interactive elements like quizzes and gamification, and track learner progress with granular analytics. Plus, Skilljar offers advanced features like certification management, user bulk-add, and AI-powered recommendations to enhance the overall learning journey.

Experience the Skilljar difference with a free demo and upgrade your eLearning from traditional methods.