Technology continues to grow at a rapid pace. In the past two decades, we have managed to progress technological innovation to such a degree that we have fundamentally changed the way people communicated online and made the entire experience more user-driven and interactive. Communication tools that were once cutting edge are now commonplace and have a whole array of competitors on their heels.
One of the most fundamental changes brought about in the last decade is the rise of remote learning. The concept has been around since the 90s. However, only relatively recently have we got to a place where technology is being implemented with great success.
The Distance Education Enrollment Report eluded to the potential of remote learning, with nearly 30 percent of postsecondary learners, or more than six million students, having taken at least one course online. Add to that the growth potential of an industry which is set to be worth US$252 billion by the end of 2020, and you can see why eLearning is holds untapped potential that is worth exploring.
Such forms of learning have become even more relevant today, with the global climate and pandemic crises. Schools, universities, corporates, and educational institutions can continue to impart and receive knowledge and training by making use of such technology amid the social distancing of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While online learning has existed in some forms for decades now, the underlying tech that it relies on did not provide an adequate platform for learning until recently. Learning management systems offer a holistic educational approach and allow educators to take a more focused approach when delivering content. All-in-all, there are a few key reasons to opt for a learning management system.
With more than 2.8 billion people using mobile devices in Asia alone, the desire to be mobile-ready is significant. Online learning removes the constraints of the typical education environment. It allows for immeasurable flexibility an viability, especially for many rural communities and remote companies.
In addition, companies around the world, including startups, SMEs, and MNCs, all are experiencing a stronger need for upgrading the skills of their employees to stay ahead of the competition and cope with volatile, and ambiguous circumstances. This is especially true during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. With working from home and handling remote teams becoming the new normal, the way companies engage and collectively train their workforce would have to change.
When it comes to learning though, one size definitely does not fit all. Different people have different learning styles that change depending on the nature of the content they are trying to absorb. eLearning allows learners to personalise their education, focusing on areas that need greater attention in more detail. Also, rather than being a one-way path where the learner listens and takes in information, online training means that learners can pursue areas that interest them in more detail.
eLearning’s diverse nature when it comes to content is also one of its greatest strengths. In a world where the average attention span has shrunk to a mere four seconds, holding ones focus is now harder than ever. eLearning’s content diversity helps to keep learners engaged throughout training while also offering interactivity to drive participation. The extensive use of gamification also drives engagement even further, ensuring interest is held throughout lessons.
