eLearning...
What is eLearning?
An analogy...
eLearning is to classroom learning as cell phones are to a pay phone at the bus station.
Well, at least it is in some ways. For instance, eLearning allows you to learn anywhere and usually at any
time, as long as you have a properly configured computer. Cell phones allow you to communicate any time and
usually anywhere, as long as you have a properly configured phone.
FCU is a "best of breed" eLearning resource that is accessible 24/7 from anywhere you can access the
Internet. The eLearning experience here at FCU includes interactive text, video, audio, animation and
virtual environments that can be combined with mentoring, peer to peer dialogue and face to face
interactions for a total "blended learning" experience that is second to none. It is a very rich eLearning
experience that can even surpass the level of training you might experience in a crowded classroom.
The quality of FCU eLearning, as in every form of training, is in its content and its
delivery. The beauty of eLearning is that cutting edge software allows the creation of very effective
learning environments that can engulf you in the material to deliver higher information retention rates at
lower costs than traditional classroom training.
Levels of eLearning
eLearning falls into four categories, from the very basic to the very advanced. The categories are:
- Knowledge databases -- While not necessarily seen as actual training, these databases are the most basic
form of eLearning. You've probably seen knowledge databases on software sites offering indexed explanations
and guidance for software questions, along with step-by-step instructions for performing specific tasks.
These are usually moderately interactive, meaning that you can either type in a key word or phrase to search
the database, or make a selection from an alphabetical list.
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Online support - Online support is also a form of eLearning and functions in a similar manner to knowledge
databases. Online support comes in the form of forums, chat rooms, e-mail, or live
instant messaging support. Slightly more interactive than knowledge databases, online support offers the
opportunity for more specific questions and answers, as well as more immediate answers.
-
Asynchronous training - This is eLearning in the more traditional sense of the word. It involves self-paced
learning, and in the case of FCU, it uses Macromedia Flash modules to present the content. It includes
access to instructors, mentors and peers via online discussion groups and e-mail.
- Synchronous training - Synchronous eLearning is done in real-time with a live instructor facilitating the
training. Everyone logs in at a set time and can communicate directly with the instructor and with each
other. You can raise your "cyber hand" and even view PowerPoint presentations, other software programs like Word and Excel and whiteboards in a collaborative environment. It lasts for a set amount of time
-- from a single session to several weeks or months. This type of training usually takes place
via Internet Web sites, audio or video conferencing, Internet telephony, or even two-way live broadcasts to
students in a classroom.
FCU utilizes each category of eLearning at different levels that are necessary to successfully
educate individuals on subject areas that are specific to their jobs.
Related Information:
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