E-learning
E-learning
E-learning (or sometimes electronic learning or eLearning) is a term which is commonly used. Most frequently it seems to be used for web-based and distance education. However, much broader definitions are also common. For example, it may include all types of technology-enhanced learning (TEL), where technology is used to support the learning process.
The term is often used in relation to online distance learning, blended learning. Lately in most Universities, e-learning is used to define a specific mode to attend a course or programmes of study where the students rarely or never meet face-to-face, nor access on-campus educational facilities, because they study online.
This E-Learning vision contrasts with more recent approaches (often termed Learning 2.0, in reference to the Web 2.0) relying more on student or peer led , informal learning, and blended learning (utilizing technology to enhance, rather than replace, the physical pedagogical processes).
Working in the e-Learning sector for 7 years now, specifically in a higher education environment. Where there is a broader outlook on “what is e-learning” for me as a, multimedia or e-learning developer – It was distance learning materials that were the focus - with not much thought, on the delivery method or support mechanisms, that were needed to facilitate effective online learning.
web2.0 technologies in education
This is a preliminary list of web2.0 technologies that have a specific application in education.
Electronic Voting Systems - Clickers
E-learning - Electronic Voting Systems
Electronic voting systems (EVS) are used to collect digital responses to questions from groups of students. Each student has a hand-held personal response system(similar to those used in the TV programme “Who wants to be a Millionaire?”) and a receiver is attached to the lecturer's computer. The system allows lecturers to add question and answer activities to lecture sessions with large groups. EVS have been used in Universities for several years, and have adopted the name 'Clickers'
Clicker Resources
E-learning - Electronic Voting Systems
- A useful and accessible overview of the research in this area accompanied by practical hints and tips: Caldwell, J.E. (2007). Clickers in the large classroom: Current research and best-practice tips. Life Sciences Education, 6(1), 9-20. - PDF
- An overview of ten years of research and development with clickers at Harvard. Offers some good ideas about how to fit clickers into wider pedagogic approaches: Crouch, C. & Mazur, E. (2001). Peer instruction: ten years of experience and results. American Journal of Physics, 69(9), 970-977. -PDF
- Scotsman Article on clickers at the University of Edinburgh (12 02 08) - WEB
- Independent Article on clickers (14 02 08) - WEB
