COLOUR THEME
E-learning modes, the very frequently asked models (blended, flipped, cMOOC, xMOOC), learning management systems, advantages, limits, and open-source resources.
6 sub-topics, in the order to study them. Tap one to jump to it.
Revision mode hides the full explanations and keeps each section's key terms, lists and tables and the Memory Capsule. Use it from your second read onward.
In brief
E-learning is learning delivered through electronic media, mostly the internet, in which content, instruction and interaction are provided online.
E-learning is learning delivered through electronic media, mostly the internet, in which content, instruction and interaction are provided online. It is a form of technology-enhanced learning.
In brief
Covers Synchronous, Asynchronous.
Synchronous: live and in real time (virtual class on Zoom, live chat).
Asynchronous: at the learner's own time (recorded lectures, forums, e-mail, self-paced modules).
In brief
Concept Core idea Key point Blended learning Combination of face-to-face and online learning Best of both worlds, NEP-supported Flipped classroom Students study content…
| Concept | Core idea | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| Blended learning | Combination of face-to-face and online learning | Best of both worlds, NEP-supported |
| Flipped classroom | Students study content (video, reading) at home, and class time is used for discussion, problem solving and activities | Reverses the traditional sequence |
| M-learning (mobile learning) | Learning through smartphones and tablets | Anytime, anywhere, bite-sized |
| MOOC | Massive Open Online Course, open enrolment, large scale | Free to learn, usually paid certificate |
| Virtual classroom | Online space with live teaching and interaction | Zoom, Teams, Meet |
| OER | Open Educational Resources, free materials that can be reused, revised and shared | Creative Commons licences |
| Microlearning | Small learning units | Short videos |
| Gamification | Game elements in learning | Points, badges |
cMOOC versus xMOOC:
| cMOOC | xMOOC |
|---|---|
| Connectivist, network-based | Content-based, instructor-led |
| Learners create and share knowledge | Lectures, quizzes and assessments |
| Early (2008, Siemens, Downes, Cormier) | Coursera, edX, Udacity (2011–2012 onwards) |
| Open and informal | Structured and credentialed |
SWAYAM is an xMOOC-style platform. The term MOOC was coined in 2008 (the course Connectivism and Connective Knowledge). Coursera was founded by Andrew Ng and Daphne Koller.
In brief
An LMS is software to deliver, track and manage courses, assessments and learner records.
An LMS is software to deliver, track and manage courses, assessments and learner records. Examples: Moodle (open source), Blackboard, Canvas, Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams for Education, Edmodo. SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) is a standard that makes e-learning content work across LMS.
In brief
Advantages: flexibility, wider reach, cost-effectiveness, personalised pace, updated and multimedia content, record of progress, eco-friendly.
Advantages: flexibility, wider reach, cost-effectiveness, personalised pace, updated and multimedia content, record of progress, eco-friendly. Limitations: needs devices and internet, requires self-discipline, low social interaction, dropout rates, assessment and plagiarism concerns, not ideal for practical skills without simulation.
In brief
Covers Open access, Open-source software, Creative Commons (CC).
Open access: free, immediate online access to scholarly literature. Gold (published open in the journal) and Green (self-archiving in a repository). DOAJ is the Directory of Open Access Journals. The Budapest Open Access Initiative (2002) is a landmark.
Open-source software: source code open to all (Linux, Moodle, LibreOffice, Python).
Creative Commons (CC): licences such as CC BY (attribution), NC (non-commercial), ND (no derivatives) and SA (share-alike). OER concept was adopted at UNESCO in 2002.
Practise with free MCQs and answer keys, then return here to fix what you got wrong.
↑ Module 4: Digital Learning and ICT in Education · All 18 topics in ICT · Unit overview and sample MCQs
Last updated: . Notes are a revision aid; check official UGC sources for any rule or scheme that changes over time. Spotted a mistake? Write to netlawverse@gmail.com.