Abstract
This chapter examines the development of online learning systems, how they incorporate reusable learning modules and how various forms of assessment are employed to improve the quality of the learning outcomes. Corporations are adopting online learning, or e-learning, at a dramatic rate, partly driven by a desire for cost reduction and partly to ensure that all staff have the required skills and ability to their jobs. Organizations are increasingly linking the systems for delivery of this learning into human resource management systems. Universities, despite some movement to e-learning are in a position to learn form the developments in the corporate world. A case study is used to illustrate many of the concepts discussed. In conclusion, the chapter suggests how these corporate experiences might be transferred into the academic world and sounds a note of warning for the universities if they fail to match the corporate offerings.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Learning Management Systems (LMSs): LMSs are computer systems that allow learners to access educational content and management the ability to monitor performance in, and use of, such learning.
Learning Outcomes: Learning outcomes are the desired objectives of providing the knowledge in the form of a course.
Learning Objects: Learning objects are focused, concise learning modules that can be deployed in various combinations to provide a body of knowledge.
Knowledge Certification: Knowledge certification is some evidence that a certain level of knowledge has been acquired.
E-Learning, Online Learning: E-learning is the use of computing and/or communications technologies to provide learning in the form of courses, training, or skills acquisition.
Podcasting: Podcasting is the method of distributing multimedia files over the Internet so they can be played on mobile devices.