More to e-learning than online training

Tech Talk. By Tom Savel, MD, AMNews contributor. July 22, 2002.

Three important terms to be familiar with in the field of e-learning are "blended," "synchronous" and "asynchronous."

If a user takes a course that includes both online e-learning and instructor-led training, the term blended e-learning is usually used.

If an e-learning product is described as synchronous, it means that the communication between the instructor and student is real-time -- essentially creating a "virtual" classroom experience.

Live audio and video conferencing are examples of synchronous e-learning. In addition, students are able to view real-time illustrations, drawn by the instructor, through what is called a whiteboard. In many cases, students can communicate with each other via live text chat rooms.

One of the challenges of synchronous e-learning is the logistics of coordinating the real-time meeting. In contrast to synchronous e-learning, if there is a delay in the interaction between the students and instructors, the e-learning is described as asynchronous. Self-paced courses, which may either be CD-ROM or Web-based, are examples of asynchronous e-learning. Asynchronous e-learning includes communication via e-mail or via Web-based discussion forums, also known as message boards.

There are three other important terms that can help in understanding the various ways that a learner can interact with an e-learning product. [...]