5 Responses

1. Definitions.
   The word e-learning is used to mean learning with a computer and the Internet. This definition is from http://www.futured.com who are the founders of the only International Quality e-Learning Mark. Also check out http://www.eqcheck.com

   Web Based Training (WBT), Online Learning/Training are from about 8 years ago when modem speeds began to improve and real online learning could be engaged with. The terms are used to mean the same as e-Learning, which today is a more generic term that many understand.

   Computer Based Training (CBT) is learning on a computer – either Instructor Led, CD-ROM based or through Simulations. The Internet is not present with these.

   I hope this has been of help to you.

   Tony Treacy.

2. On and Off Line
   As I understand it, you are on-line when you are connected to the Web. You are off-line when you are not connected to the Web.

   ‘E-learning’ refers to the whole range of computer-based aids to learning, whether used on- or off-line. So e-learning would include tutorial or collaborative discussion via email (called a-synchronous e-learning, since the people involved do not have to be online together at the same time), as well as via instant messaging (called synchronous e-learning, where the people involved chat to each other whilst they are online at the same time).

   ‘Online learning’ refers to the subset of e-learning methods that can be only used by people while they are online, as in the case of collaborative discussion between a group of students using instant messaging, or as in the case of a presentation by a tutor using an online whiteboard.

   Students who are using interactive computer based training (CBT) that runs from a CDROM, on the other hand, are using an offline e-learning method.

   I hope this helps.

3. e-learning guru
   Hi Janis,

   There’s an excellent glossary for all things e-learning on Kevin Kruse website
   http://www.e-learningguru.com

   There’s loads of useful stuff on that site generally – its one of the best resources I’ve come across

   Kind regards
   Nicola

4. A Little Follow Up…..
   I put your question online to my academic colleagues yesterday and this definition has just arrived in my email.

   ”e-Learning is… the use of technologies to create, distribute and deliver valuable data, information, learning and knowledge to improve on-the-job and organizational performance, and individual development.

   We began to play with the ‘e’ and extend the definition even further. One of the definitions we like is: enabling, enhancing and extending learning through the use of technologies.”

   I pass it on to you.

   Tony Treacy.

5. e-learning Definition
   “E-Learning is the delivery of a learning, training or education program by electronic means. E-learning involves the use of a computer or electronic device (e.g. a mobile phone) in some way to provide training, educational or learning material.”

   The confusion arises because many on-line learning companies and others have associated e-learning with on-line learning.

   The E stands for electronic. So if I phoned you up and taught you something you would have been taught via e-learning, likewise if I sent you a PDF file that taught you something and you use your computer to read it that would be e-learning.

   Depending on the method of delivery you will get a lot of definitions, I went through the same problems as you and found the above definition actually does fit and explain what e-learning is.

   You may differ, but I hope it helps.