Session 2 - ETEC 501

• My personal description of E-Learning is the use of a meeting location (either pre-determined or ad hoc) that offers the learner the option of attending either synchronously or asynchronously. As mentioned during the class discussion both E-Learning and Online learning are not clearly defined and often seem to be used interchangeably. This instructional method can be provided over an Internet connection or portable medium, e.g. DVD, Hosted solution or Plug-and-Play option. The training is organized in an easy-to-follow format that allows learners to start and stop at their own convenience. If the E-Learning model being used is synchronous there would be a requirement to include a telecommunication method (e.g., Skype, Dim Dim, or Conference Call) to support the student to instructor and student-to-student discussion/ interactions.

Learner progression is also part of the E-Learning experience and would be integrated into some sort of Learning Management System that allows the administrator and self-progression tracking through to the anticipated course completion.

• Michael Moores' Transactional Distance study (2007) talks about the Student – Instructor; Student – Student; and Student – Content interactions. Adding the technology component creates the transactional distance learning relationship. I found that each element has its place in the learning environment. In the past the most important interaction would have been the Student -- Instructor, but, all interaction is important depending on the subject being learned and how the course is delivered. Giving the student the opportunity to choose the delivery model is what makes it such a rewarding experience.

E-Learning Trends in the Workplace:
• Current E-Learning trends in my workplace are with the use of an instructor-led virtual classroom. In this model the software training happens synchronously and is not recorded for later review. Learners are from all U.S. and international locations. These classes are scheduled over a two or three day period for 7 continuous hours per day. The use of different technologies to support the needed class maximums are where a lot of time is being spent to get a handle on the best customer experience.

Online Conferencing Applications:
• Use of dimdim for meeting was very stable and effective. I like that the telecommunication piece seemed to be separate.
-At my workplace we are using Adobe Breeze, which is really a nice application with similar features to dimdim. The telephone dial-up is done separately as well, again it works best for me since you can at least keep that piece of the communication in tact should you have any sort of Internet issues.
-We used Skype last quarter and there were often connectivity issues and once a slightly larger group was established it had a high incidence of failure. The telecommunication feature often encountered dropped calls. This method I find good for personal use to stay connected with my family, but, not sure if it is the best fit for routine delivery of a online training class.