eLearning, also known as online learning, is catching on quickly as an efficient means of training people in new technologies. Though the phrase “eLearning” is the common term, it applies to a number of different deployment strategies that are useful for different purposes. Here are a few of the most common types of eLearning:

• Technology-based learning: This term tends to be interchangeable with eLearning. Technology-based learning includes deployment methods that use recent technological developments such as computer-mediated communication, video conferencing, multimedia, groupware, video-on-demand, desktop publishing, intelligent tutoring systems, and virtual reality, just to name a few.

• Web-based training (WBT):
Generally, Web-based eLearning uses streaming media, text, and graphics to create an exciting learning environment that is deployed right on the user’s computer via the Internet. It’s a great way to get eLearning out to a large group of people scattered across the globe, but it can present some deployment challenges if the audience is using dial-up connections.

• Computer-based training (CBT):
This is a great alternative to WBT for graphic- or audio-rich eLearning. CBT is eLearning deployed via CD-ROM, which eliminates the streaming issues that can be associated with WBT. The downside? With CBT, it is much more difficult to capture the results of eLearning through tests or other evaluation forms than with WBT. Many of our clients opt for WBT with easier-to-stream learning treatments, rather than give up the ease of test administration and reporting.

• Synchronous and Asynchronous eLearning:
With synchronous eLearning, learning and teaching takes place at the same time while the trainer and learners are physically separated from each other.

• Internet telephony
• Web conferencing
• Online lectures
• Distance learning via interactive satellite
• Audio/video conferencing

Asynchronous eLearning means that the user can take the training independent of any schedule. At Resource Bridge™, we refer to this as “Wherever they are, whenever they need it.” Asynchronous eLearning does not require a facilitator or instructor, and is one of the more popular eLearning deployment methods.

• Self-paced courses taken via Internet or CD-ROM
• Stored audio/video Web presentations or seminars

Regardless of whether your focus is academic or corporate, implementing a successful eLearning strategy requires technology that will make the learner’s experience enjoyable. Examine the following five types of systems and consider which ones might be used in meeting your eLearning needs:

1. Programming Languages
Hypertext Markup Language, better known as HTML, is the most common programming language used for eLearning. The advantages of HTML-based eLearning are that most users can access it with any common browser and it does not require special downloads or plug-ins to run. It is possible to develop a simple, online lesson using straight HTML; however, the use of straight HTML does not provide for a high level of interactivity for the learner. Most eLearning sites that are based on programming languages add items like Java, JavaScript, PEARL, FLASH, or even CGI scripting to increase the level of interactivity between the learner and the eLearning course. Programming languages provide a great deal of flexibility and freedom to the developer.

2. Authoring Packages
These packages are designed specifically to overcome the difficulty most instructors have with using programming languages. Most authoring packages are visually oriented so the designer doesn’t need to know any coding. An example of an authoring package is Macromedia’s Dreamweaver. The challenge with authoring packages is that they can be cumbersome to learn well enough to be able to deliver high-quality eLearning in a reasonable amount of time. That’s why many companies choose to create their own content and then outsource the development of their eLearning courses to a company that specializes in custom eLearning development, such as Resource Bridge™.

3. Learning Management Systems (LMS)
These systems are specifically designed to track the progress and performance of a multitude of learners. There are literally hundreds of academic and commercial systems from which to choose. The commonality among LMS eLearning platforms is that they can track and store user performance; they can track the number of hits to a certain area of the site; and they can track the amount of time a learner has spent in a certain area of the course. Custom eLearning development companies, such as Resource Bridge™, are familiar with a broad spectrum of LMS systems, and can help a company determine the best LMS
to suit its needs.

4. Content Management Systems (CMS)
A CMS helps instructors catalog, track, and manipulate corporate information. For an individual instructor or a person working alone, content management is usually not a critical element. A CMS is effective when large amounts of information must be tracked and managed. Such as system is not as useful for eLearning, because it lacks the end-user delivery and tracking mechanisms found in the LMS.

5. Learning Content Management Systems (LCMS)
These systems are simply a combination of the LMS and CMS. Such systems can track users, author content, and store, retrieve, and reuse content when needed. These “mega” packages allow an organization to have an enterprise-wide solution that takes care of every eLearning software need.

Regardless of what type of system you choose for your eLearning solution, you need to consider five distinctions among these different software products: Maintainability, Compatibility, Usability, Modularity, and Accessibility. Each of these characteristics is critical for eLearning success. It is important to note that, in reality, many of the characteristics overlap. However, looking at the five characteristics individually helps to ensure a broader understanding of the technology needed for an eLearning solution.

Maintainability — The product can be maintained over a long time period

Compatibility — Look for a solution that is compatible with other eLearning solutions on the market

Usability — Make sure that your eLearning solution is easy to use

Modularity — Look for systems that allow you to determine the learning objects and that require the instructor to link the learning objects to specific learning objectives

Accessibility — eLearning programs should be accessible to all individuals, regardless of physical disability

Consider carefully the type of eLearning software you want to employ to reach your learners. Your eLearning solution might range from developing a simple Web page to add value to a class to a full-scale LCMS that includes learner registration as well as course development.

Regardless of the solution, if you consider the elements of Maintainability, Compatibility, Usability, Modularity, and Accessibility when choosing your software, you will have a smoother, more effective eLearning strategy.