Defining 'e-learning'

I'm quickly learning that the term e-learning means many things to many people.  On the surface, I thought the term would be very simple to define but I've since learned that due to slight differences in terms and application, there are a large variety of suggestions.  (Reference some from first reading)

My favourite definition to date, is that of Holmes and Gardner (2006, p. 14).  I believe it to be simplistic yet inclusive; they believe that e-learning is

"online access to learning resources, anywhere and anytime."

They remark that their definition focuses more on the essential components of e-learning than many other academic papers (Holmes & Gardner, 2006).  I believe that their understanding of e-learning is succinct and transparent, with an obvious focus on the online resources to aid and develop the learning process.  It is not focused solely on developing an understanding of applications and programmes, but on using these tools to support learning across the full range of curriculum areas.

Although I consider this definition to have strength, it does raise an important question for me.  Does e-learning really have to be accessible anywhere, anytime?

Case in point, if I have a student who participates well in class, collaborates effectively within their group and develops their understanding through the use of a web 2.0 application, but cannot access the internet from home for the time being, are they still participating actively in the e-learning process?

I believe Holmes and Gardner's definition suggests this student cannot be fully considered involved in the e-learning process as they do not have access to these tools "anywhere and anytime" (2006, p. 14).  I agree that having access to the tools of e-learning is particularly important, but I am not convinced that a student lacking round the clock access should necessarily be considered excluded from e-learning.

I shall continue my search and see if I can find a more suitable definition or better understand this one.

Web 2.0: "Wordle" - Roblyer, Edwards, Colbert and me!

Having looked over a couple of readings, I've been thinking about just what e-learning means to me.  I created this 'word cloud' (to share my thoughts and they key ideas I read about) using wordle.net (a free web 2.0 tool - the more you type in a word, the larger it appears on the final wordle) and then used the 'Grab' application (as I'm working on my school Mac) to copy it.  Finally I converted the file to JPEG to allow me to post it to this blog.  

My goodness, what a lot of brackets  ;)

Roblyer & Edwards (2003) and Colbert (2006).


Click on the wordle above to see a larger version.

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step" - Lao-tzu (Chinese Philosopher)

This is the beginning of my journey into the vast world of e-learning. I suppose it is a road that I have been traveling along for some time but I am looking forward to placing specific importance on it and making it a real focus. I hope that by the time this semester is complete, I am able to confidently say that my students have benefited from my new understanding, and that future students will benefit even more as I continue to educate myself in NETs (New Educational Technologies).

Today I was lucky enough to be paid a visit by Jacqui Sharp, a very knowledgeable professional - definitely someone to aspire to be more like. Jacqui introduced me to some web 2.0 applications that I'm not yet familar with and (along with this paper,) has reignited my desire to explore these tools. I intend to record these sites on my blog, both in the hope that I can introduce some of you to applications/programmes that might be handy and as a way of actually keeping track of them myself!

I'd love to hear of any experience you have on using these applications (you may be using them in a completely different way to me) and your thoughts - I'd also be very thankful if anyone would like to share their favouites that I haven't yet come across.

I've seen how these sites can get students excited about their work and allow them to think in a more creative, interesting way - something that gets me very excited!


Referencing required
http://www.quotationspage.com/quote/24004.html