Rise Of Learning Platforms: Importance Of eLearning In Higher Education

eLearning is one of the most dynamic education trends of the decade. Brought into prominence by the pandemic, it has transformed the way education is given and received.

Many learners today opt for eLearning courses of varying disciplines and levels. Thanks to online learning platforms, they can now earn a degree from recognized institutions and enhance their skill sets while learning from the comfort of their homes.

This flexibility and accessibility make eLearning courses hugely popular. In this article, we’ll delve into these learning platforms and their importance.

Here’s what we’ll cover.

Table of Contents

• The Structure of eLearning Courses
• Scope of eLearning in Higher Education
• Importance of eLearning in Higher Education
  •  Greater Flexibility
  •  Unlimited Access to Content
  •  Improved Quality of Learning
  •  Supports Differentiated Learning
  •  Makes Education More Affordable
  •  Creates an Online Learning Community
• How KITABOO Makes Online Learning More Effective?
• Summing Up

eLearning classes are delivered through online learning platforms. Specialized instructors prepare courses and deliver instruction to learners on the other end.

Learners take the lessons at their own pace and earn a degree or a certificate on successful completion of the course.

You can divide eLearning courses into three main types based on the structure of their content.

Text-Driven is the simplest form of eLearning. The content mainly comprises written material, with added images, audio, and slide show presentations. Students can learn anywhere and at any time. 

Text-Driven eLearning does not involve much interaction between the educator and the learner. It is best for courses that do not require a lot of demonstrations.

Interactive eLearning goes beyond text to include interactive components in the learning process to enhance the value of learning. Here, students and instructors interact in real-time through virtual classrooms and video or audio conferring.

The benefit of such direct interaction is that students can ask their queries and get instant answers. These courses are required when demonstrating difficult concepts.

Simulation is the more advanced form of eLearning. It includes the use of heavy graphics, video, and gamification to deliver highly engaging content.

The content also features animated demonstrations so learners can follow through with the explanation. Learners can watch the content at their convenience without needing an educator to physically be present.

Offline education has long been the most dominant form of any kind of education. However, the scenario has changed since the COVID-induced lockdown.

The shutting down of educational institutions brought the importance and benefits of eLearning to the fore. Today, the global educational sector has realized the tremendous potential of eLearning.

The convenience, accessibility, scalability, and effectiveness of the learning process present an enormous scope of eLearning in higher education.

Learning platforms have changed the way course materials are delivered and the way learners interact with them. This flexible form has provided a new context for teaching and learning worldwide.

Let’s explore the importance of eLearning in higher education.

The most evident advantage of eLearning is the greater flexibility it provides in comparison to offline classes.

It enables learners to balance studying with other activities, such as work or family responsibilities, and helps them efficiently achieve their learning targets.

These virtual education platforms ensure that geographical barriers, life circumstances, or other responsibilities no longer hinder the learning process.

Not just learners, facilitators also benefit from this flexibility. The rise in the demand for off-campus and distance learning courses enable institutions to expand their market. 

Unlike in a traditional course, students can access lectures and eLearning materials repeatedly, even after the course is over. 

Missed live lessons can be made available in recorded form to ensure that a learner can sign-up any time, irrespective of the course’s timeline.

Another reason why eLearning is important is that it is known to improve learning quality. eLearning platforms provide new and creative ways of engaging with content, improving a learners focus and performance.

Techniques such as audio-visual learning and gamification encourage continued engagement while boosting productivity. Similarly, micro-learning (delivering content in smaller chunks) creates a more lasting learning effect.

In fact, an intensive eLearning experience can increase the retention rate from 25 to 60%.

eLearning platforms accommodate the needs of all learners by offering differentiated learning. They provide various tools for educators, enabling them to use different instructional strategies for learners of differing levels.

Facilitators can easily customize learning resources and pace to suit individual needs, strengths, and style, maximizing learning for all. 

eLearning courses are fast, efficient, and affordable. Unlike offline education models, there is no requirement for a venue, classroom infrastructure, and multiple trainers, making the courses much more affordable.

Further, learners can also save money on travel, accommodation, and external course materials.

Online learning platforms bring together facilitators, learners, specialists, experts, practitioners, and other interested parties to share ideas and to collaborate.

Learners can participate in active learning by connecting with fellow learners and mentors in the virtual world.

Such virtual learning communities help bridge the gap between offline and online learning.

KITABOO is a leading content creation, publishing and distribution platform that helps deliver eBooks that provide an excellent learning experience.

Here are some features that make KITABOO world-class. 

• Accessible from any device irrespective of operating system
• Easy-to-use and has an intuitive interface
• Seamlessly integrates with other systems and LMSes
• Secure platform with top-notch Digital Rights Management (DRM)
• KITABOO SDK is also available

Thousands of academic institutions are leveraging the power of eLearning to make education more accessible, affordable, and engaging for learners worldwide. eLearning has the potential to raise literacy levels and even aid economic development. 

Are you ready to adopt a better learning content solution? If so, please write to us at contact@kitaboo.com.