E-learning or distance learning via the Internet

Definition of e-learning or distance learning

E-learning or distance learning translates as online learning. It encompasses all training methods that enable learning by electronic means. It is the use of information and communication technologies for educational purposes. The European Commission defines it as the use of new multimedia technologies and the Internet to improve the quality of learning. It facilitates access to resources and services, as well as exchanges and collaboration at a distance.
Nowadays, e-learning or distance learning is used in various training sectors. We have :

• Educational software for schools.
• Virtual campuses for universities.
• Applications for training company employees or MOOCs for self-training.
• Solutions for primary, secondary and higher education .

What are the different forms of distance learning?

Having listed the different sectors of e-leaning or distance learning, it is clear that there are different forms of learning:

• the MOOC (Massive Online Open Course) , which is a kind of online training courses , some of which are free of charge. As a result,we speak ofan interactive community oflearners who have been trained for several weeks. The training is led by one or more professionals, who provides learners with educational content including videos and quizzes. At the end of these weeks, the learner receives a certificate.
• The SPOC (Small Privat Online Course), which can be compared to a training course, ideal for meeting a specific need. This distance learning course involves bringing together a limited number of people with a limited number of accesses to the course.
• The MOOC (Corporate Online Open Course) , which concerns courses offered by a company to its employees, or even its customers and suppliers. This form of e-learning is designed to support the digital distance transformation within and develop the skills of all employees.

In what fields is distance learning used?

E-learning or distance learning can be found in many different fields: Typologies of e-learning techniques E-learning or distance learning learning or distance learning techniques are distinguished according to the physical presence presence of the trainer and the communication techniques used. Communication can be direct, via videoconferencing , or indirect asynchronous, viaa forum. It’ s also more social and collaborative learning, with social networks or MOOCs. This training also includes MOOCs, which are online courses open to all, with no strings attached.

the benefits of online learning for trainersand learners

E-learning or distance learning offers a number of advantages for both trainers and learners:

• Learn at your own pace and according to your availability.
• A step-by-step guide to the various stages.
• Knowledge tests and self-assessment.
• A fun and educational way to learn about different subjects.
• Allows you to be self-sufficient.
• He makes his team more productive.
• Better trained employees.

E-learning limits for trainers and learners

Despite its many advantages, e-learning or distance learning does have certain limitations:

• Lack of human contact puts many learners at a disadvantage.
• Too many techniques and different learning media that can slow down the learner.
• The content is sometimes not adapted to your needs, unlike a classroom course.
• The difficulty of getting involved in training and motivating oneself without an opening.
• Lack of practice.

The right solutions for the best in online training

Despite the above-mentioned limitations, we have come up with solutions for e-learning or distance learning. To this end , we have:

• Good motivation on the part of the teacher and a certain level of attendance, and if the training is formalized, the trainer significantly reduces the risk of dropping out.
• Internet access for all schools. This would still be difficult for some African countries.
• Multimedia resources must be accessible to all.
• Career guidance services must be strengthened.
• in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), we need to create a learning culture within the company, adapted to the company’ s needs , which must then be properly understood.

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