What Is eLearning?
In simple terms, eLearning is learning using electronic means. Unlike traditional learning methods, where people sit in classrooms and listen to lectures, they engage in an online learning environment through a screen. This may involve watching a video, clicking through a slideshow, or answering quizzes online. There are two main types of eLearning: synchronous and asynchronous.
Synchronous eLearning happens in real time. Think of a virtual classroom where everyone is logged in at the same time, usually engaging in a live learning session. Synchronous eLearning encourages real-time interactions, as students can ask questions, chat with classmates, and even raise their hands virtually. On the other hand, asynchronous eLearning is all about learning at your own pace and on your own schedule. Students can attend lessons whenever they want, watch a pre-recorded lecture, or take a quiz while doing other tasks. Asynchronous eLearning is perfect for students who prefer revisiting the learning material to grasp it better without disrupting the flow of the whole class. Plus, people can choose to learn when they’re feeling most productive, whether that’s early in the morning or late at night.
Although eLearning is flexible and convenient, it demands a different level of self-discipline. There’s no one looking over the students’ shoulders or keeping an eye on them in case they take out their phones to scroll. Learners are responsible for staying on track, which is especially tricky when we’re talking about young learners. As a parent, it may seem overwhelming to have to prepare your kids for an online learning environment, but it can be a simple process. Below, you’ll discover everything about the basic tools used in eLearning so you’re better prepared, as well as tips to help your children adapt to a new learning environment.
Platforms And Tools Most Commonly Used In An Online Learning Environment
Video Conferencing Software
Video conferencing software is at the heart of every online learning environment, as it hosts the virtual space that becomes the digital classroom. These platforms, like Zoom, are not only your children’s online classrooms but also their breakout rooms, where they can start conversations, exchange tips about lessons, and connect with their peers. There’s also video conferencing software that integrates with other systems, like Microsoft Teams, so it’s easy to share documents and files or collaborate on projects with other schoolmates.
Virtual Learning Environment Platforms
Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) contain everything your kid needs to thrive in the digital classroom without having to manage too many apps at once. They help students find all their course materials, discussion forums, assignments, and grades neatly organized. Everything is in one place, so they can focus on learning. This also saves parents from the trouble of always trying to help them find missing documents or links. VLEs also offer communication opportunities between students and teachers, provide interactive quizzes and assignments, and sometimes even multimedia tools for presentations or group projects. Most importantly, though, they send notifications about upcoming deadlines and lessons so your kids are always on schedule.
Learning Management Systems
An LMS keeps track of all the students’ classes, assignments, grades, and even attendance. It’s like an always-available digital school that kids can access from anywhere. LMSs are the go-to place for educators to upload slides, videos, quizzes, and any other type of learning materials. However, children may find that these platforms are too structured. They may be perfect for keeping everyone organized, but they seem too professional, which many young learners may not like.
eLearning Authoring Tools
eLearning authoring tools help educators create engaging, interactive, and sometimes even fun online courses. Thanks to these tools, instructors can add videos, simulations, clickable content, and even games to courses, creating a completely different learning experience for children. Most of the authoring tools are also user-friendly, so anyone can try experimenting with course creation and encourage kids to stop passively absorbing information and start actively engaging with the learning content.
Communication Tools
When it comes to an online learning environment, communication tools keep everyone connected. They ensure that even though your kid may be miles apart from their teacher or classmates, they can interact with them on the spot. These tools are perfect for real-time conversations and asynchronous discussions for shy kids who prefer a little more time to think. The best part is that communication tools can adapt to every personality type. Whether your child needs face-to-face interaction or prefers to send a message, they can find the format that suits them best.
Digital Learning Games
Organization and structure are absolutely essential in an online learning environment, but so is an element of fun, especially for kids. This is where digital learning games come in. These games aren’t just distracting learners from the hard work they do during lectures or assignments; they’re designed to actually help them learn. They use problem solving, puzzles, or interactive challenges to make complex topics more comprehensible to young minds and offer them plenty of opportunities for collaboration, too.
Online Learning Resources
One of the key elements of eLearning is online learning resources. Basically, these come in different formats, from videos and interactive quizzes to articles, eBooks, and recorded lectures. They’re designed to break things down and make complicated topics feel more manageable. Most learning software and platforms come with online learning resource libraries that are accessible at any time. The best thing is that they’re self-paced. So, your kids don’t have to feel left behind because someone in their class is more advanced. They can finally learn at their own speed because they can access the resource libraries when they need it.
How To Help Your Kid Adapt To A New Learning Environment
Steady Routine
Κids thrive on routine. This is because they need that predictability to feel grounded. Establishing a steady routine helps create a sense of stability, making the online learning experience way smoother. Start by setting consistent times for when they log in, when they take breaks, and when they finish their day. Don’t forget to include regular breaks in the routine. A 15-minute break to stretch, grab a snack, or scroll on social media can really keep them from feeling overwhelmed.
Emotional Support
Your kid will need emotional support to stay motivated as they adjust to a new learning environment. When they feel overwhelmed by staring at a screen, give them a break. Encourage them to take a walk, have a snack, or just chill. Even if they get frustrated or bored, listen to what they have to say and offer them a shoulder to cry on. And, of course, don’t forget to praise them for their achievements or just for making it through the day.
Engaging With New Tools
An online learning environment can feel overwhelming for kids when they have to deal with all the new tech tools and platforms. So, your priority should be to help them get comfortable with the tools they’ll be using. For instance, you log in together, click around, and explore the new software. Practice is also important, so set up a few practice sessions where they can use the features of their new platform. Now, in case they encounter problems, teach them how to troubleshoot simple issues, like checking their internet connection, restarting their laptop, or contacting tech support.
Patience And Flexibility
Your kid’s online learning journey isn’t going to be smooth all the time. There will be tech problems, boredom, challenging tests and assignments, and days when they have no motivation at all. The key here is to be patient with them and ready to step in if needed. You also need to be flexible. They may need to adjust their schedule a few times or study from different rooms in the house for a change of scenery. Be open to changes and stay calm so as not to stress them further.
Conclusion
Helping your kid adapt to an online learning environment can seem challenging at first, but with patience, you can make the transition smoother for them. Remember, your support and encouragement play a crucial role in their success. It’s also important to stay flexible and adapt to their needs as they grow more comfortable with the online environment. By working together, you can help your child develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in an online classroom.