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The word 'elearning' brings to mind a standard set of features that could be applied to almost every elearning platform currently in existence. Whether it be the powerpoint style slides, or more exciting video or animation, there is the basic training module, a set of questions to be answered and a score at the end. With the varying level of skill of the developers these components can be engaging, cutting edge and exciting or lack luster and difficult to complete, but ultimately they are all a standard set of functionality.
As elearning becomes more commonplace, a paradigm shift is occurring. The standard versus the possible. This shift can be likened to a teacher who stands at the front of the classroom repeating french phrases again and again hoping that repetition will drum it into you, versus a teacher who takes you out to a french bakery and invites you to order anything you like as long as it's in french. I know chocolate croissants would help me love to learn! This new paradigm has human relationships at the focus with virtual teams contributing to learning communities.
The features of this new paradigm include: - Social presence - online communities, shared content development (eg wikis)
- Openness - individuals have the capacity to construct their own learning pathways
- Self reflection
- Guidance and Feedback
- Enjoyment and Engagement
- Simulated learning
While we are not there yet, the journey towards truly engaging learning is just beginning.
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