Lifelong Learning

ELearning is a fairly recent term only coined in 2000. There are a lot of definitions on the web about eLearning. Here are some definitions found by Google, to name just a few:

1. E-learning
Learning that is facilitated by the use of digital tools and content. Typically, it involves some form of interactivity, which may include online interaction between the learner and their teacher or peers.
source: http://www.digitalstrategy.govt.nz/Media-Centre/Glossary-of-Key-Terms/

2. E-learning
Education offered using electronic delivery methods such as CD-ROMs, video conferencing, websites and e-mail. Often used in distance-learning programmes.

Source: http://www.mba.hobsons.com/glossary.jsp

3. e-Learning

The use of new multimedia technologies and the Internet to improve the quality of learning by facilitating access to resources and services as well as remote exchanges and collaboration.Source: http://www.elearningeuropa.info/main/index.php?page=glossary

4. E-learning:

Any technologically mediated learning using computers whether from a distance or in face to face classroom setting (computer assisted learning).

Source: http://www.usd.edu/library/instruction/glossary.shtml

5. e-Learning
Any learning that utilizes a network (LAN, WAN or Internet) for delivery, interaction, or facilitation. This would include distributed learning, distance learning (other than pure correspondence ), CBT delivered over a network, and WBT. Can be synchronous, asynchronous, instructor-led or computer-based or a combination.

Source: http://www.iqat.org/glossary.php

6. E-learning

Also called CBT (Computer Based Training). E-learning is a general term that relates to all training that is delivered with the assistance of a computer. Delivery of e-learning can be via CD, the Internet, or shared files on a network. Generally, CBT and E-learning are synonymous, but CBT is the older term, dating from the 1980s. The term E-learning evolved from CBT along with the maturation of the Internet, CDs, and DVDs. E-learning also includes Internet-based Learning, Web-based Learning, and Online Learning.

Source: http://www.thecatalyst.org/resource/2006/04/21/E-learning-glossary/

7. E-Learning: E-learning is an approach to facilitate and enhance learning through the use of devices based on both computer and communications technology, including personal computers, CD-ROMs, digital television, and more. Communications technology enables the use of the Internet, email, discussion forums, collaborative software and team learning systems to enhance the learning process. E-learning may also be used to support distance learning through the use of WANs (Wide area networks), and may also be considered to be a form of flexible learning where just-in-time learning is possible. Courses can be tailored to specific needs and makes asynchronous learning possible.

Source: http://www.cmapros.com/glossary.php

From Wikipedia:

Electronic learning (or e-Learning or eLearning) is a general term used to refer to a form of learning in which the instructor and student are separated by space or time where the gap between the two is bridged through the use of online technologies.

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From the above definitions, whether from a broader or narrower view, e-learning has the following features:

1. Flexibility in time and space;

2. using of ICT (computer,internet, any technologically mediated learning)to facilitate teaching and learning;

3. Emphasize interactivity between teachers and learners.

4. aim to improve and enhance traditional teaching and learning.

With the emergence of web2.0 technologies, there is a trend towards eLearning2.0, in addtional to the above, it also has the following features:

1. dynamic: the content, the way of interaction between T-S is changing and dynamic.

2. individualized: learners can choose content and activities based upon their time, space and personal interest.

3. learner-oriented: different from the trational instructional learning, eLearning caters more for learners’ needs and more self-paced.

4. Social and collaborative: the most distinctive feature of current eLearning is that learners can learn from their peers, experts or professionals both in and out of their organizations.

it is also noteworthy that there is an emergence of two trends in the use of eLearning:

1. Blended learning: which also called “Hybrid Learning”, is a mixture of face-to-face learning with online elements.

2. Live eLearning: also called “synchronous learning” or “real time learning”, enables students from all parts of the world to come together online at the same time with a tutor who led a learning session.