Until the late 90s, the term E-Learning was non-existent even though according to history there had been several forms of distance learning, notable of which were Isaac Pitman’s shorthand course in the 1840s and the 1924 testing machine which allowed students to test themselves.
However, the breakthrough in electronic learning did not come until 1960 when the first Computer Based training program was developed by the University of Illinois for its students. The program simply identified as PLATO (Programmed Logic for Automated Teaching Operations) is said to have been the cradle of modern-day computing concepts such as Chat rooms, instant messaging, forums, screen sharing, multiplayer games, and media sharing. By the late 70s Plato had already been distributed worldwide.
Even though electronic education started out like one-way traffic where learners only got information and instructions, it has evolved today into a very interactive space where feedback can easily be gotten. Thriving on its accessibility and flexibility, today millions of people all over the world rely on e-learning to achieve their reskilling and upskilling goals.
Over the years, technological advancement, and the rise of giant EdTech companies have helped shape virtual learning processes immensely and in the coming years, there is still a whole lot to look forward to. Below are ways through which advancements in educational technology will improve learning soon.
Collaborative Learning
E-learning has been known to be a highly personalized way of learning, but with the advancement in educational technology, online education is gradually opening to interactivity which will give room to much more collaborative learning. Learners will be able to work with other learners to achieve their learning goals and feedback from teachers will become as instant as in regular classrooms.
Adaptive Learning
Adaptive learning is an educational method that uses computer algorithms to provide tailor-made resources and experiences for learners. This way, the unique needs of each learner are met in terms of what they learn, how they learn it, and when they choose to learn it. In the near future, learners will have the luxury of getting all these sorted out by their learning management systems.
M-Learning
Also known as Mobile learning, M-Learning is a form of learning done using a mobile device. With M-Learning, learners can learn on the go with an unimaginable number of resources in the palm of their hand. This form of learning will become popular with the optimization of e-learning content such as High-quality videos and complex graphics for mobile devices. With simple navigation, quality user interface, and bite-sized modules, M-Learning indeed has a place in the future of E-learning.
Micro-Learning
In an age when it has become difficult to hold down people’s attention without them checking their smartphones or getting distracted by something else, developing shorter digital learning content has become inevitable. Microlearning offers short and punchy pieces of content for learners. This content can come in the form of texts, videos, or infographics but one thing in common: brevity.
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality
Augmented Reality and Virtual reality will play an immense role in the future of e-learning as learners will be able to practicalize lessons in an immersive and fun way that sparks creativity and enhances practical skills.
With the ever-advancing tech world, there is no end in sight to the exciting possibilities that abound in the future of e-learning. You can become an e-learner today and get reskilled in Product UX Design by applying for our forthcoming bootcamp