E-learning 2.0
The emergence of web 2.0 is seen as a social evolution rather than technological in order to bridge the need of social interaction, information sharing and collaboration in the information society. A continuous effort can be found in using the properties of communication networks for this purpose. In this context e-learning is also rapidly shaping towards e-learning 2.0 by accommodating the potential and features of web 2.0. This incorporates web 2.0 features like wikis, blogs, rss feed, social bookmarking, social networks, audio video sharing applications and different virtual environments. The integration and interoperability of web 2.0 features is seen as a challenging issue. E-learning 2.0 is said to be combining traditional learning management system (LMS) functionality with integrated social networking tools. Recently University of Cambridge’s Judge Business School has adopted e-learning 2.0 LMS called TOPYX developed by Interactyx. The main feature of this LMS has been claimed that it integrates the social networking tools in the LMS which provides users and learners a collaborative, networked, engaging, open, user friendly and flexible learning environment. What is the real potential of e-learning 2.0 applications and the impact in pedagogies will still be a major concern in the coming days ahead. s
Main issues about E-learning
The most precise definition of e-learning is given by e-learning strategy for Wales as “e-learning is the use of electronic technology to support, enhance or deliver learning”. Learning in form of modern education and trainings can be enhanced by using range of innovative electronic technologies. Multimedia plays an important role in the support and delivery of e-learning.
As the 21st century society is changing into information society, access, analysis, use and management of information plays a major role in the development of societies. Garrison D.R. & Anderson T. (2003) states that e-learning as an open system and with the power of internet, learning and teaching transaction has expanded unfathomable amounts of information. US web based education commission states that e-learning is exciting from the perspective that it enhances and enriches both content and context.
When viewing the global arena it reflects that e-learning is the most capable medium to spread literacy, skills and knowledge across the world irrespective of class and various differences. United Nation and other similar organizations highlights that the main problem of the underdeveloped societies and nations in the 21st century is hazardous poverty which is caused due to lack of opportunity in education and skills. When I think about the development of any society then industrialization, business, trade and services are found to be playing the major role. Scientific research and sustainable development plays a vital support in the advancement of these processes of social development. Snow, C. P. (1959) has stated that the most fruitful outcome for people arises from the clashes between the technologist perspective and the humanist perspective. This also means a responsible system which focuses on using the power of technological innovation for the welfare of people and development of society is the best approach. It’s the human attitude and behaviour which rather unnecessarily introduces the political color and flavour in the society. This again means awareness, education and skills plays the vital role for the development as well as civilization of the society.
In this context Garrison D.R. & Anderson T. (2003) again states that the goal of quality e-learning is about blending diversity and cohesiveness into a dynamic and intellectually challenging ‘learning ecology’. They also mention that this allows interactivity beyond one way transmission of content and extends our thinking regarding communication among human being engaged in the educational process.
The main challenge that has been exposed is that there are no simple rules and regulations for designing and delivering effective e-learning experiences. So designing and creating context, with appropriate level of social presence that is congruent with the content and fulfilling the educational goal that supports and enhances cognitive presence and realization of higher-order learning outcomes has been seen as the main challenging issue.
When it come to designing and organization of e-learning then following are the main concerned issues as highlighted by Garrison D.R. & Anderson T. (2003):
Designing issues
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Establishing curriculum
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Identifying resources
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Defining clear expectations and goals
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Addressing activities (collaboration & individualization)
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Setting time frame
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Devising assessment process and instruments
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Selecting media
Organizational issues
Policy development:
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Vision
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-underlying background
- -define core values
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-describe strategic goals
Need and Risk assessment
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-identifying issues
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-identify challenges
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-best practices
Educational principles and outcomes described
Implementation initiatives and strategy
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-link to institutional priorities
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-create a steering committee
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-identify community of practice
Infrastructure
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-design multimedia classroom
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-describe educational process
Info structure
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-designing institutional community
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-create knowledge support system
Cost and budget
Support resources
R&D
Benchmarking
