There has never been a more exciting time to be associated with the education field. New technologies are allowing teachers and administrators to re-imagine pedagogical processes that have remained relatively static for hundreds of years. Innovative new approaches, bolstered by these new technologies, are creating personalized educational methods that help students stay curious, engaged and motivated. Even better, much of this progress not only pays for itself but also comes at a lower overall cost–a huge plus for cost-conscious learning institutions.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits offered by one of the most impactful of these technologies: eLearning software. At various stages throughout the adoption, delivery and post-education process, online learning software can deliver significant advantages for institutions that emphasize eLearning.
1. Quick setup
Some institutions may be aware of the myriad advantages of eLearning yet hesitate to fully commit, given the fear of incurring significant startup expenses. The truth, however, is that the costs associated with setup, infrastructure, and scaling are low.
Institutions adopting online learning platforms will discover that setup is reasonably simple and that the learning curve for new users is modest. Infrastructure costs, too, are very low. Scaling new learning operations becomes far more efficient, and the reach of such operations is greatly extended.
2. Speedy and cost-effective delivery of learning
The delivery phase, however, is where the value of eLearning truly starts to shine. First, the speed and efficiency offered by online learning software can mean dramatic cost reductions associated with the delivery of material. Institutions can save on course materials, as eLearning radically reduces the costs of developing and distributing physical materials. Travel and accommodation costs reduce to virtually zero, in some cases.
3. Reduced staffing requirements
Integration of eLearning means reduced staffing levels–a major cost driver for most schools. They ensure optimal use of faculty through using the online learning software.
4. Personalized learning experience
The introduction of eLearning also allows for a much higher degree of personalization. Students who feel disconnected from the material being presented (whether due to a perceived lack of relevance or flaws in the presentation) tend to lose motivation. Once this occurs, students may quickly fall behind and feel that they are not capable of doing the work.
Personalization makes these lessons more relevant and engaging. The use of eLearning software allows educators to determine how and when to deliver what content and how to evaluate students based on this content disseminated. It also allows the experience of learning to be customized. Something as simple as the repetition of the student’s name and the incorporation of her preferences (colors, avatars, voices, etc.) can stimulate deeper engagement.
5. Learner-centered instruction
By using online learning software, educators can also bring about a change from a teacher-led classroom to a student-led classroom. In a teacher-led classroom, everything is designed to support the needs of the instructor; in a student-led classroom, the reverse is true. This shift is essential to encourage greater autonomy and independent problem-solving skills among students. The use of eLearning software encourages students to learn in a personalized manner that aligns with their needs and preferences. Students can review material off-campus on a device of their choosing, for example.
By taking this student-centered approach, educators help instill the skills and habits that form the basis of lifelong learning. Teachers no longer exert total control over what students learn, how and where they learn it and how they are evaluated. By employing online learning software, instructors can tailor material to each student’s interests and abilities — something that helps drive superior educational outcomes.