The Most Prevailing Trends In eLearning
eLearning is a new era in the learning industry. It provides an individual with the flexibility to learn based on their own time, pace and availability. The worth of the eLearning market was measured at $2.5 billion in 2013, $7.8 billion in 2016 and, according to numerous predictions, the number will likely grow into $15.72 billion by 2021. These figures show a huge financial contribution to the distance education field, which shows the huge potential of the eLearning market. As the eLearning industry is growing among the new generations, there are many pros and cons. Let's have a look at those:
Pros
- Flexibility
One of the main advantages of eLearning is that it is flexible. It helps us to cope up with our busy schedules by letting us take the courses in small sections whenever we want. - Mobility
It's something that's more useful in our busy schedules. In eLearning, we are able to learn from any location, such as a park, a bus, train, etc, instead of a confined classroom. - Low Cost
In eLearning, we don't require trainers' fees or equipment, so it becomes more affordable. While the cost of traveling is taken into account, eLearning is a cheaper option. - Performance Monitoring
The performance result after the end of each topic and module are portrayed statistically on a dashboard. It enables learners to self-assess their overall performance and improve themselves. The instructor is able to monitor their performance more easily than in traditional, offline education.
Cons
eLearning can never replace the need for a human instructor. Even if eLearning is useful in many ways, computers are able to complete all tasks due to:
- Lack Of Focus
Both learners with poor concentration and those who are poorly motivated may quickly fall behind the online course. Without a fixed time schedule or a routine, it's difficult for learners to meet specific deadlines or goals. - Lack Of Social And Cultural Interaction
In eLearning, peer-to-peer communication is minimal, which makes it challenging for some of the learners. - Learners May Feel Isolated
Without interaction with the outside world, there is a probability of feeling isolated.
Even though there are many cons as regards eLearning, there have already been many successful eLearning platforms all over the internet like Udemy, Udacity, Teachable, etc. you can make great use of. Learners engagement is of prime importance to the success of eLearning platforms. These can be effective only if they present something that catches the learner's attention for more than just study materials, such as:
- Group Discussions
A powerful discussion forum which revolves around the course will probably be the first option that makes eLearning interactive and much more engaging. On the other hand, simply having comment boxes on the article is unpleasant and difficult for the learners. - Interactive Quizzes
Having questions asked after each session as a module assessment and an overall quiz for topic assessment are always interesting. - Make Iit A Visual Treat For The Eyes
The use of slideshows and various multimedia gives learners the ability to stay on the task and be easily pulled into the topic.
What The Current Trends Are In eLearning
As in every sector where changes have occurred, eLearning has also undergone some. Therefore it's high time we discussed what the current trends in eLearning are:
Mobile Learning
For the last few years, adoption of mLearning or mobile learning has been on the rise. It is flexible, the courses provided are responsive; i.e. it can run seamlessly on desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The other main advantage of mLearning is that you can learn from wherever you are and whenever you want.
Microlearning
It deals with the short-term learning activity. The course that lasts for 60 minutes can be split into more bite-sized courses. It can be easier and more affordable to produce such courses and as well as to maintain them.
Gamification
It employs gaming elements so as to improve user engagement. It is a technique of transforming learning into a game. In this way, you can create a high impact and immersion.
Interactive Videos
Learning through videos will continue to maintain its own appeal. As a consequence, the way interactive video turn the passivity of regular videos into rich interactive experiences will see a rise and will be utilized for formal training, too, in addition to performance and support.
Social Learning
While there's a need for formal training that meets specific learning outcomes, there should be an increase in programs for casual or social learning in which students can network, discuss, collaborate, and exchange thoughts on problem-solving.