e-learning is real learning

Progressing neatly from basic to complex Knowledge. Consequently many training programmers are arranged in structured linear packages.The logic and neatness of programmed learning was perhaps an essential step in our understanding and development lf effective training but its rigidity in the end stifles rather than encourages learning .

I have always been suspicious of ordered Leaning . Observing my son growing up over recent years has demonstrated continuously that the learning function is definitely neither logical nor linear .

Nor does learning consist of the mere transfer of information from an expert to a novice . Rather it is an individual building activity involving complex and often unconscious processes and requiring rich contexts and interactions . To add to the complexity each individual s starting point is unique depending on his / her previous experiences .

Consequently each person has a distinctive mental model . That model is being constantly updated as information is added causing that person to interpret the same facts in a different way to other people . Effective learners construct personalized Knowledge to their existing understanding making their own particular sense in the process.

How can training and particularly e- learning promote this process ?

Since learning is messy it helps if students immerse themselves in the learning experience . By its very nature and structure the world wide web is ideally suited to encourage this . The web was designed and built as an instrument to communication – which is the essential element to all learning .

Immersion is encouraged by exchanges of ideas because this promotes thinking – often the active element in the learning process.

Thinking involves the use of knowledge : to arrive at conclusions make decisions and draw inferences .

Real learning and deep understanding depenk on such thinking . Anyone who has experienced that eureka moment knows that this is definitely not a logical or sequential process.

Further the asynchronous communication that is typical of online learning has the advantage of slowing the process promoting reflection review and complex interpretation –all of which help to develop high level thinking .

These natural advantages of the web clearly exist but they must still be identified designed into courses and exploited during implementation.

Identification begins with analysis of the training meek . Analysts need to be aware of the general and specific issues be able to recognize the opportunities and be capable of moulding a workable solution from the mass of intricate data presented to them .

Design principles are the same for all learning media . Of particular relevance for online learning is flexibility so that learners can customize their environment . This places an emphasis on learning by action and interaction along with the utilisation of groups for the sharing of experiences .

Students learn best in an environment over which they have some control rather than one that is imposed upon them . ideally they can construct and manage their own learning process but most learners will need some support from both the design infrastructure and collaboration.

The best designs take advantage of the reflection encouraged by online communication and try to build in enthrallment so that the learner is intrigued fascinated and drawn in Even the best designs however require the inclusion lf all appropriate support mechanisms .

In this context the role of the tutor/trainer is vital . Tutors / trainers should not merely transmit facts but must seek to provide further opportunities environments and contexts in which to learn . They must become facilitators and guides encouraging students to be collaborators in the creation of knowledge and meaning by inspiring a vision creating a learning community and modeling suitable behaviour.

Tutors must explain their philosophy of learning and enthuse their students In a positive learning environment they will provide various learning environment they will provide various learning options encourage responses and provide constructive feedback . They must interact effectively with a diversity of students but refrain from presenting their own views as the correct reality .

The basis to this approach is a dialogue between tutor and students . The aim of the tutor is usually to facilitate the development it a particular viewpoint but as every person has impossible simply to give someone a new perspective.

This can only be achieved over time through constructive discussion involving many exchanges clarifications and modifications on both sides . The process is further enriched if other students and / or experts also participate .

Clearly communication is the key to this approach so online design and tutors activity must support and extend opportunities for interaction.

There is an art to initiating and sustaining an effective group discussion . Dialogue is promoted by questions and for the tutor asking the right questions is more important than giving the right answers .

The aim is to generate a conversational inclusive atmosphere by including personal statements experiences and beliefs . Initial messages should present a dilemma and be vague or even ambiguous . Oblique assertions such as I sense … or metaphors work well in this respect .

This is in direct contravention of the traditional view of the tutor as the source of all knowledge and indeed the surest way to undermine the desired mood is for the tutor to pose as the expert .

If there is more to learning than transmitting information from one person to another the web has many advantages . Text with a lot of creativity and multimedia with some imagination can provide non- linear experiences but such training is much easier to deliver via the web . Indeed if you produce linear training online you are failing to tap in to the web s capabilities.

Designed approached and managed correctly learning via the web is potentially more effective than learning face –to-face.

Communication is the key to real learning and the learner can interact more with the tutor and others online . With online learning delivered asynchronously there is as much time as you like for questions –which are the most effective learning tools .

To exploit these different dimensions analysts and designers must be more aware of the possibilities and tutors must become facilitators of learning rather than dispensers of knowledge .

If they are successful the advantages will be demonstrated in the real world and business will come to appreciate the benefits of online learning . These benefits certainly relate to cost savings appealing to the accountants . More importantly they relate to the electiveness of the learning experience. The whole organization will benefit from real learning at all levels especially at the management end of the market where the possibilities for added value are greater.