What is e-learning?The Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC)

defines e-learning as:

‘Learning facilitated and supported through the use of information and communications technology (ICT).’

e-learning includes:• Delivery of courses• On-line assessments• Student to student / student to teacher

communications• Use of internet resources• Other learning activities involving ICT and the

internet

Learning theories that align with e –learning include:

• Cognitivist theory• Constructivist theory

Cognitivist theory

Information processing theory, in which the learner becomes a processor of information the teacher is the dispenser of information

Cognitivism in e-learning...

• E-learning technology can support learner interactions with:– Narrative: the tutor imparts knowledge– Communication/interaction: the tutor receives

feedback and discussion with students – Discursion: the tutor is able to redirect the subject

to the key point of focus

Constructivist theory

The role of the learner changed from that of a recipient of knowledge to that of a constructor of knowledge, an autonomous learner with skills for controlling his/her cognitive processes during learning.

Constructivism in e-learning...

• Learners participate actively in the learning process

• Learners negotiate their learning style and context with their peers and teachers (??)

• Student-centric: the tutor is a facilitator, guide and supporter, and not the sole authority

Why introduce e-learning?

• To foster student success and active engagement through diverse learning spaces and places.

• New opportunities to extend the practical elements of learning.

• Blending delivery of theory with practical units within the course

Benefits of e-learning• Learners take responsibility for their own

learning

• Accommodates multiple learning styles using a variety of delivery methods.

• Learning is self –paced

• Fosters greater student interaction & collaboration

• Enhances computer & internet skills

Tips for successful e-learning delivery

Steps for successful e-learning

Step 1: Online presence

To enhance student centred learning ensure every unit has a minimum online presence with the use of the following:-

• E-learning 2.0 technologies• Mobile learning technologies• Other forms of multimedia content , capture

& delivery

Step 2: Clarify expectations

• Decide in advance of the learners logging on what you expect them to do and what the e-moderator (tutor) will do.

• Aim to provide just one invitational message, which contains everything needed to take part.

Step 3: Confirm understanding

• Ensure that the participants are clear about your intended objectives for an e-tivity. Start with the end in mind.

Step 4: Align assessment/evaluation with e-tivity

• Ensure that your planned evaluation or assessment meets the purpose(s) of the e-tivity. If assessment is involved, look for alignment with tasks.

Step 5: Build motivation with e-tivities

• Build in motivation as part of the process of undertaking the e-tivity itself and not as something separate from it. Motivation occurs because of the learning activities.

Step 6: Time management

• Be highly sensitive to timing and pacing. Divide the e-tivity up into bite-sized chunks of no more than two or three weeks work for a complete e-tivity – less if possible.

Step 7: Focus on understanding

• Ensure that the e-tivities are in some way focused on sharing, shaping, elaborating or deepening understanding.

Step 8: Teamwork• Ensure that participants need to work

together in some way to achieve the learning outcomes.

Step 9: e-moderation• Be generous in allocating time to manage the

communication of online students (e-moderation)

How could you apply e-learning in two of our programs?

• Quizzes• Surveys• Self-tests• Discussion forums• Blogs • Practical step-by-step videos• Research activities / Assignments• Feedback forms (e.g. Survey monkey?)

Images courtesy of:

• movingmountains.com.au• buzzle.com• promotionsonly.com.au