E-Learning - The Modern Way of Knowledge Transfer

E-learning is happening on many levels, and it is increasingly present across various aspects of modern life. This includes corporate training, university education, and schooling, so the delivery of knowledge through digital means is booming. There are various forms of digital learning and ways to properly implement the concept. High-quality platforms and tools are available to facilitate and support learning.

E-Learning - a Definition

E-learning describes a digitally supported learning in which learning materials, resources, and digital media are made available for teaching and presentation, while simultaneously simplifying communication. The use of various digital tools naturally proves significant for a digital teaching and learning process.

Typical examples include computer-based learning, online learning, or multimedia learning. Schools and universities have been using these methods for quite some time because they represent a crucial addition to traditional learning formats. From language learning programs to instructional videos, there are plenty of e-learning methods that follow educational and didactic concepts.

How Does E-Learning Work and When Is It Beneficial?

E-learning is versatile and continually evolving. There are learning methods where users interactively participate by writing, speaking, listening, or having control and input, and others that enable the simple dissemination of information, such as provided texts and books, videos, animations, and simulations.

E-learning can be categorized into computer-based and purely digital E-Learning. In the former variation, knowledge is presented to the user through a computer in the form of text, video, or instructional units and requires user interactivity to track learning progress.

Digital E-Learning on the internet includes online courses, E-Learning programs, and language learning platforms, for instance. Communication can be held via email, chat, networking, forums, and videos. This also includes apps and digital educational games designed to make knowledge transfer more engaging.

E-learning is beneficial for individuals who aim to pursue additional education alongside work and family commitments or for students who want to simplify learning through digital communication and tools. People who are working and have limited time can still study a subject of their choice through this form of learning, allowing them to even obtain a degree. With E-Learning, individuals can decide when, where, and for how long they want to learn.

What Is Needed for E-Learning?

Digital education enables independent learning using advanced tools and formats such as simulations, games, or quizzes. It offers high-quality content that can be accessed anytime and allows for flexible learning schedules. To participate in digital education, you need an internet connection and digital learning materials, such as Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, and other tools. A user account must be created on platforms, and suitable software is available for desktop-based and / or mobile-based learning.

What Is Deep Learning?

Deep learning is a special method for processing a large amount of information and aims to enable automation by allowing machines to independently enhance their capabilities. It is part of machine learning and uses neural networks and artificial intelligence for training and data analysis. Such systems can provide content and create new content based on what they have learned, linking it with the learning program.

How Does Blended Learning Work?

Blended learning combines traditional in-person training with online courses. This can be done in different phases and usually the e-learning part follows or supplements the in-person part. Thus, blended learning selects which content to provide in-person and which to provide online, and by this creating a hybrid system. This approach has proven particularly effective in higher education and seminars.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of E-Learning?

While e-learning can simplify the learning process, it does not eliminate the need for motivation and discipline. But, it tends to make the learning experience more engaging and helps learners by offering appealing tools and concepts.

The advantages of e-learning

• Reinforcement of learning through exercises and repetition
• Freedom to choose when and where to study, resulting in high flexibility
• Control over the pace of learning and monitoring of progress
• Motivation through interactive learning methods like quizzes, simulations, interactivity, or games
• Incentive to learn through visible progress, ranking, competition, or bonus points
• Continuous updating of learning materials

The disadvantages of e-learning

• The need for self-motivation and self-discipline
• Learners must independently acquire learning content
• Absence of group dynamics or teacher-student relationships
• Limitations on the transmission of content within a certain framework

What Are E-Learning Tools?

E-Learning providers offer suitable software packages and tools for desktop applications to support learning. These tools enable the creation, conversion, and digital availability of learning materials, such as e-courses, e-seminars, video lectures, animations, and simulations. Some well-known E-Learning tools include Adobe Captivate, iSpring Suite, Lectora Online, and Elucidat.

What E-Learning Platforms Are Available?

In addition to software packages, many online platforms are available for E-Learning, some of which are free, while others require payment. The most important E-Learning providers and platforms include

• Moodle (open-source platform based on CMS for E-Learning courses and methods),
• Studymarter (a free platform for students to create learning materials and practical exercises for exam preparation),
• Lynda (a paid LinkedIn Learning platform offering open online courses on business-related topics),
• Duolingo (a language learning platform from the United States with a free basic version and a paid pro version),
• Blinklist (a paid platform providing information, advice, non-fiction books, and educational podcasts), and
• Udemy (a paid platform offering career-related topics like marketing, IT, design, or programming).