e-Learning: The next Internet phenomenon...
The next Internet phenomenon could be
Stanford.edu, Harvard.edu or Cambridge.edu.
If it's not one of the famous universities, then some
as-yet-unknown organization will take the lead
and make a name for itself. HigherDegree.edu
perhaps? As I look at what's happening in the
.com world, with the kinds of companies
reinventing themselves, it's hard not to imagine
that the business of education will also change.
It will have to...
Scott McNealy
CEO, Sun Microsystems Inc.
USA Today, Sept. 16'99
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What is e-Learning ?
E-learning: the e-transformation of individual and organisational learning, so as to reflect the needs of a knowledge
economy and society and the potential of knowledge, information and learning technologies (KILT)
eLearning, also referred to as Web-based training, is available anywhere, anytime. It is self-paced interactive instruction,
presented over the Internet to browser-equipped learners. eLearning courses span the spectrum from desktop applications to
technical certification meeting the needs of today's life-long learners. The eLearning solution is empowering, engaging,
effective and economical. It is the answer to today's training challenges.
User Friendly
eLearning is easy and engaging. It is available to everyone at any time - all you need is a standard browser like
Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. You do not have to install programmes, there are no CDs, it is all done over
the Internet and the courses are interactive. You learn by doing, not by just watching a computer screen. Simulations
and questions about key concepts and facts will keep you engaged in the course.
Hyperlinked indexes let you zero in on specific topics or subjects to get the information you need, when you need it.
Courses are designed to work as just-in-time learning, too, eliminating the need to take programmes from beginning to
end to find key information. eLearning courses can help you master a new topic or help you find the answer to a question
when time is of the essence.
You can also stop anywhere, any time, and the next time you sign on - the system will bookmark your position and take you
right to the place you left off - no need to remember where you were, no need to page through the course to get back on track.
Engaging
eLearning is not only suitable for computer based courses. eLearning courses are now available in every possible
subject including management and supervisory skills such as customer service, negotiation skills and time management.
Training is no longer a luxury but a requirement in a world that thrives on constant change. What better way to learn
the ins and outs of eCommerce than via the Web? That's the main reason why training managers incorporate eLearning courses
into their education arsenal.
With today's booming economy and movement away from long-term company loyalty, it is increasingly important for companies
to invest in keeping their current employees satisfied and in creating an atmosphere that interests prospective employees. One key way to ensure that you both keep existing employees and attract new ones is to provide continuous training for them.
Effective Solutions
Employers and learners cannot afford time off to take a class. Travel itself makes traditional training too expensive and
disruptive. eLearning is revolutionising the training world and the ability to erase geographical boundaries is one of the
most popular features. As eLearning is available via the Internet, you can access courses anytime from any PC anywhere that
has Internet access. The ability to stop and restart a course provides flexibility to train immediately when training is
needed and when opportunities arise.
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