eLearning: Moving Forward

@BlueStreamNews

Article by Lewis Morley, Software Developer

Extensive studies support the claim that eLearning is a more cost-effective and efficient way to ensure the continued professional development of employees.

The ability to improve effectiveness at a fraction of the cost makes it an appealing alternative to traditional face-to-face methods, especially for larger organisations.

Evidence of this claim was identified by a 9-year survey of research literature in training, conducted by the American Psychological Association Division of Educational Psychology, which was published in Training and Retraining in 2000.

The survey concluded: ‘Learners learn more using computerbased instruction than they do with conventional ways of teaching, as measured by higher post-treatment test scores.’

Due to its adaptability, its lack of restriction, and the capacity to make instant changes across the board, eLearning enables organisations to ensure that all staff, regardless of location, can access consistent content. This ensures that common methodology and ideals are followed, reinforcing corporate identity.

Technology is continuing to advance at a rapid rate, with things that were merely fantasy a few years ago now becoming a reality.

Now more than ever, people are using ‘learning styles’ to adjust learning content to better suit the user, as everyone learns in a different way. Therefore, content must not be locked into a single learning style (such as lots of text and reading).

Ideally, learning content should have a fine balance between interactive elements and detailed information allowing users of all learning styles to enjoy and engage with it. A large number of upcoming technological advancements are becoming available to use in any eLearning content.

Increased participation through interactivity with well-designed eLearning programmes leads to higher levels of cognitive engagement, resulting in better retention of information.

First, there are interactive videos. These allow you to record real-life footage of the module content (e.g. office safety). When users go through the video, at certain points they get to decide what to do next and the video plays out the consequence.

Think of the hazard perception test on a driving theory exam, but with even more user interactivity. This allows people to become fully immersed in the learning content and get a deeper understanding of the information.

Next is the big drive in gamification and rewards. Instant gratification and reward are incredibly popular with many of the younger generation as much focus is on the next 10-minute hit rather than on longer delayed rewards. This could very easily be used in an eLearning environment, to provide users with small rewards for completing certain tasks (e.g. passing a test first time with a score of 100%).

Augmented reality, virtual reality and interactive reality are three different areas of technology that work within the same realm, effectively allowing the user to manipulate a digital space. Augmented technology can provide an engaging learning experience and complement educational text-based eLearning.

However, there are some barriers to virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) learning. Firstly, the set up of the headset and subsequent equipment can be time consuming, expensive and requires a certain level of expertise to set up. VR and AR training are also unsuitable for a group training environment, unless the device is shared amongst users.

The technology most likely to be used within eLearning is interactive reality, using a camera or mouse to interact with the digital world. These elements tie in perfectly with our existing eLearning format that offers an engaging way to keep the user interested. An example of this can be found within our Fire Safety module.

In terms of accessibility and user comfort, big strides have been made in the screen reader software that is used on PCs. This allows people who have disabilities to use the eLearning content without compromising on the knowledge they are receiving.

However, screen readers are not limited to those with disabilities; they can be used by people who prefer to listen to content rather than read, similar to how audiobooks are becoming a preferred way to enjoy books.

eLearning has been providing a more effective and efficient way to learn for years, and with the future of technology rapidly developing, this is a great time for eLearning platforms to flourish and advance even further, becoming a staple in every organisation’s training.