March 2023 - Learner Management Systems

The Rise Of Cloud Computing And Its Impact On eLearning

How Cloud Computing Made eLearning Evolve

The world of education has undergone a massive transformation in recent years, with the rise of online learning and eLearning platforms. As a result, cloud computing has become a game changer for the IT industry, and it has also had a significant impact on eLearning. In this article, we will explore the rise of cloud computing and its impact on eLearning.

What Is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services, including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and analytics, over the internet (“the cloud”). Cloud-based solutions are designed to provide users with access to shared resources, software, and information on demand, from any place with an internet connection. Cloud computing is based on a pay-as-you-go model, which allows users to scale up or down their computing resources according to their needs. Cloud computing can be divided into three main categories: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS).

The Benefits Of Cloud Computing In eLearning

Cloud computing has a number of benefits that make it an ideal solution for eLearning. Here are some of the key advantages:

Scalability
Cloud-based solutions can be easily scaled up or down to meet the needs of learners and educational institutions. This means that eLearning platforms can accommodate more users as needed, without requiring additional hardware or infrastructure.
Customization
Cloud-based solutions can be customized to meet the specific needs of educational institutions and learners. This means that eLearning platforms can be tailored to meet the unique requirements of different courses and programs.
Cost savings
Cloud-based solutions often offer cost savings compared to traditional on-premise solutions. This is because cloud-based solutions typically require less hardware and infrastructure, and they can be easily scaled up or down to meet changing needs.
Accessibility
Cloud-based solutions allow learners to access eLearning platforms and resources from anywhere with an internet connection. This means that learners can access course materials and collaborate with other learners regardless of their location.
Reliability
Cloud-based solutions are designed to be highly reliable and available. This means that eLearning platforms and resources can be accessed at any time, without downtime or interruptions.

Examples Of Cloud-Based Solutions

There are many examples of cloud-based solutions that are used in eLearning. Here are some of the most common:

Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Learning Management Systems are cloud-based platforms that allow educational institutions to manage and deliver eLearning courses and programs. LMS solutions typically include features like course authoring tools, student registration and management, and tracking and reporting of student progress.

Content Delivery Networks (CDN)

Content delivery networks are cloud-based platforms that allow educational institutions to deliver eLearning content, including videos, audio, and other multimedia content, to learners around the world. CDNs are designed to be highly scalable and reliable, allowing educational institutions to deliver content to large numbers of learners with minimal latency and downtime.

Virtual Classrooms

Virtual classrooms are cloud-based platforms that allow educators and learners to interact in real time, regardless of their location. These classrooms typically include features like video conferencing, screen sharing, and whiteboarding, allowing educators and learners to collaborate and communicate as if they were in the same physical location.

Learning Analytics

Learning analytics platforms are cloud-based solutions that allow educational institutions to analyze and track student progress and performance. These platforms typically use machine learning algorithms to identify patterns and trends in student data, allowing educators to personalize learning experiences for individual students.

The Future Of Cloud Computing In eLearning

Cloud computing has already made a significant impact on eLearning, but its potential for innovation and transformation is far from exhausted. In the future, cloud computing is likely to continue to shape the evolution of eLearning, bringing new opportunities for personalized learning, enhanced collaboration, and improved outcomes for students.

1. Personalized Learning

One of the most exciting developments in cloud computing and eLearning is the potential for personalized learning. With cloud-based solutions, educational institutions can collect and analyze data on student performance and use machine learning algorithms to provide personalized learning experiences tailored to the needs and preferences of individual students. This could include personalized content recommendations, targeted feedback, and adaptive learning paths that adjust to the student’s progress and learning style.

2. Collaborative Learning Experiences

Cloud computing is also likely to enhance collaboration and social learning in eLearning. Cloud-based solutions can support virtual communities of learners, allowing students to collaborate, share resources, and engage in peer-to-peer learning. Cloud-based solutions can also support collaborative learning experiences, such as group projects and virtual classrooms, where students can work together in real time regardless of their location.

3. Accessibility And Flexibility

In addition, cloud computing is likely to improve the accessibility and flexibility of eLearning. Cloud-based solutions can support mobile learning, allowing students to access learning materials and engage in learning activities from anywhere with an internet connection. Cloud-based solutions can also support flexible learning formats, such as self-paced learning and blended learning, which combine online and offline learning experiences.

4. Blockchain Technology

Another promising development in cloud computing and eLearning is the use of blockchain technology. Blockchain technology can provide secure and transparent records of student credentials and achievements, allowing students to build and share portable digital credentials that can be recognized and verified by educational institutions and employers.

5. Innovation

Finally, cloud computing is likely to continue to drive innovation and experimentation in eLearning. As cloud-based solutions become more sophisticated and accessible, educational institutions and EdTech companies will be able to experiment with new learning formats, technologies, and pedagogical approaches, opening up new possibilities for eLearning that we have yet to imagine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cloud computing has already had a significant impact on eLearning, and its potential for transformation and innovation is far from exhausted. In the future, we can expect to see personalized learning, enhanced collaboration, improved accessibility, and continued experimentation and innovation driven by cloud-based solutions in eLearning.

8 Tips To Choose The Best Virtual Reality Training Software For Your Budget

How To Choose The Best VR Training Software Within Your Budget

VR software helps you create immersive 3D training environments for your team; safe spaces that facilitate hands-on training from a distance. In other words, it’s a dream come true for companies that want to build experiential knowledge during the COVID-19 crisis. You can also use VR training systems to provide remote training long after we’ve overcome the curve. While some outsourcing partners already have an established toolbox, others allow you to choose platforms for your project. Even if you outsource your VR training programs, it’s always good to have eLearning authoring tools on hand just in case you need to make some minor changes or update VR activities in the future.

8 Top Tips To Choose The Best VR Training Software For Your Budget

1. Clarify Your Software Spending Limit

Every organization has a VR training budget. But you should develop a separate expense sheet for software. Include setup costs, monthly subscriptions, and ongoing maintenance, as well as payroll for all the above. For example, it will take a week for your team to install the VR software and get over the learning curve. Once you have a clear budget, set a max spending limit. Try to leave some wiggle room for unexpected fees like add-ons or advanced support services.

2. Survey Your Team To Identify Their Must-Have Features

Is your team comfortable with VR training software? Or are they new to the world of interactive design tools? Evaluate your team to gauge their level of tech-savviness, as well as narrow the list of must-have features. Which functions do they need to develop immersive content that captivates your audience? First and foremost, you need a platform that’s user-friendly and intuitive. Then you can move on to other essential features. For example, video editing, collaborative tools, and multimedia assets.

3. Evaluate Support Services

Most software vendors provide support services, ranging from online demos to live chats. But how responsive are they, really? Does it take them a week to respond to emails? Has their online user forum been dormant for months? Test out their support before making your final decision. You can also contact them with a question to see how quickly they reply and if they address your concerns. For instance, they might answer within an hour but it’s a template response. Another option is to visit their social media to see how (or if) they interact with the public. Do they respond to comments, even if it’s constructive criticism? When was the last time they made a post? Are they active on several platforms?

4. Read Online Reviews

Social proof and reviews aren’t necessarily deal-breakers. However, they do give you the chance to evaluate VR training software from the other side. Namely, from the perspective of someone who’s already created VR content and understands the tool’s limitations. Reviews can also shed light on the product’s real-world benefits and functionality. Look for sponsor-free review sites that feature the pros, cons, and detailed performance overviews.

5. Take A Test Drive

The only thing better than reading reviews is to explore the product’s features firsthand. Many VR training tool vendors offer free trials or demos, which allows you to develop sample projects and evaluate the user interface. In fact, invite the whole team for a test drive. Then collect their feedback to choose a clear winner. However, you should develop evaluation criteria so that everyone knows what to look for.

6. Analyze Their Asset Library

Most VR software solutions have built-in assets, including templates, themes, interactions, and cut-out characters. As such, the repository should be a main focal point during the free trial. See what the software has to offer and if the media suits your needs. For example, there are thousands of assets but none that fit into your compliance safety simulation. And it’s not just about quantity. The quality of the assets counts, too; low resolution is a major red flag.

7. Submit RFPs

Until now, you’ve been covertly qualifying vendors. Sure, you had to provide some basic info for the free trial. But they still don’t know about your training requirements or spending cap. So, submit RFPs to your top contenders for personalized quotes and spec sheets. Vendors reply with proposals so that you can compare their features side by side. When necessary, schedule a follow-up meeting to discuss your concerns and additional buying needs. Just be sure to prepare a list of questions beforehand to respect everyone’s time.

8. Assess Your VR Training Vendor’s Toolbox

If you’re outsourcing VR training development, ask the company about their tools of choice. Firstly, they can offer recommendations based on their past experiences. Secondly, you know that your new tool is compatible with theirs. For example, the delivery formats are the same. The primary reason to purchase VR training platforms when outsourcing is to maintain content. Thus, you may want to purchase their preferred tool, especially if the outsourcing partner gives it high marks.

Conclusion

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all VR training software that suits everyone’s needs because every organization has its own spending cap, team talents, and training requirements. However, this guide can help you find a VR design platform that lives up to expectations. Start with a clear budget and skills assessment, then move on to vendor qualification. Your top software contenders should have personalized support and a solid online reputation. Last but not least, make sure the new system plays well with others; namely, your outsourcing partners’ toolbox.

Are you ready to partner up with a virtual reality training pro who can help you stretch available resources? Our exclusive online directory has the top vendors for every industry. There’s even a complete solutions list so that you can find a company that delivers the total package.

International Mother Language Day: How eLearning And Technology Can Benefit Multilingual Education

Technology And eLearning Are Helpful Tools In Multilingual Education

International Mother Language Day is celebrated every year on February 21. The idea for this International Day came from Bangladesh, and it highlights the importance of everyone’s mother language, as well as multilingualism, to build sustainable and inclusive societies. Languages also foster stronger cultures and knowledge sharing, which makes it even more vital that they are preserved. Sadly, 40% of the global population doesn’t have an education in a language they speak or understand.

This Year’s International Mother Language Day

This year is the 24th annual celebration of the Day. The theme for 2023 is “multilingual education—a necessity to transform education.” It highlights how multilingual education can be enhanced to transform education in general, as well as how to support learning in that context. Multilingual education is a hope for linguistic diversity. Students begin education in the language that they are more comfortable with and then move forward to exploring other languages, which gives them the opportunity to learn the material in a familiar language so that they’re better able to assimilate information.

Which eLearning And Technology Tools Can Help Students?

eLearning Platforms

Asynchronous learning platforms offer major flexibility, as people can attend lessons at their own pace and are given the freedom to set their own schedules. This is ideal for multilingual education because it is accessible to everyone, no matter the time difference or cultural specificities. Flexibility also applies to teachers. They have access to data regarding students’ performance, and they can adjust lessons accordingly. Some teaching professionals may also live in countries that speak the learners’ mother tongue, so it’s better for them to teach whenever it’s most convenient.

Language Apps

Language apps have become even more popular since the pandemic started. In fact, it’s common for some indigenous languages to have more people learning them through apps than native speakers. This form of language learning, although informal, helps to raise awareness of languages that are in danger of extinction. Plus, when people learn a new language, they familiarize themselves with the culture it fosters. It’s also beneficial for people who live in countries where their mother tongue isn’t spoken. They can open the app, practice their writing and speaking skills, and be more in touch with their cultural identities.

Video Streaming Services

Platforms that let you stream your favorite series and movies can be effective in language learning, too. Those platforms have a global audience and, thus, include audio translation and subtitles in many languages. Even if the language of a show or movie is familiar, they can change the audio to their mother tongue, or, if not available, they switch on the subtitles. This way, they also learn about differences in meanings, idioms, and other language nuances.

Translation Through Artificial Intelligence

Though Artificial Intelligence (AI) is still in its infancy in many respects, AI translation software can give learners the ability to translate text (including text in images) with greater accuracy. Updated AI mechanisms can translate idioms in relatable ways, which bridges the gap between languages to optimize multilingual learning.

Virtual And Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) can both be applied in multilingual education. However, they work in different ways. The former uses digital content as an overlay to the real world, while the latter immerses the user in a digital world. How do they help multilingual education? Well, first of all, as their definitions suggest, they immerse the learner in certain environments that can be custom-tailored for language learning. For example, AR through mobile apps is proven to assist in vocabulary retention. Specifically, AR exercise cards can boost learners’ performances and strengthen their memory. On the other hand, VR puts students in realistic environments where they can practice a language; for instance, by speaking with avatars that represent native speakers.

Awareness Through Social Media

Social media platforms tend to create social movements and raise awareness. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which have the most activity between ages 18–34, usually shed light on important matters like indigenous languages or cultures that are in danger of extinction through user-generated content. Users often highlight the importance of heritage and the celebration of different cultures. This creates more awareness of the importance of language diversity and prompts people to embrace their mother language and connect with other native speakers.

Challenges Multilingual Education Faces

Limited Internet Access

Not everything goes smoothly when it comes to technology on a global scale, and that can have a direct impact on multilingual educational pursuits. For example, developing countries may not have access to tech equipment or stable internet connections. As such, efforts are ongoing to allow greater internet access in those countries and help them connect with the rest of the world. International Mother Language Day is a great opportunity to shed light on this concern.

Limited Tech Training Or Resources

Teachers and professionals also need to be trained to use technology in order to help their students get familiar with those tools in turn. Many still resort to more traditional media for their education, like television, radio, and DVD or VHS. Those methods can be effective, considering the circumstances, but modern technology can help them transform their educational initiatives.

Conclusion

Modern times have created multilingual and multicultural societies. However, this makes the protection of language diversity a more urgent matter. Technology and eLearning, when used to their maximum potential, can be very powerful in preserving languages and spreading knowledge. This International Mother Language Day, it’s important to remember that every language has its own culture and the people who speak it carry on its legacy.