Semantic Modelling for E-Learning Coordination

Introduction

Open, flexible and distributed learning activities are named variously, including:

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  e-Learning,

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  Web-Based Learning (WBL),

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  Web-Based Instruction (WBI),

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  Web-Based Training (WBT),

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  Internet-Based Training (IBT),

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  Distributed Learning (DL),

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  Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL),

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  Distance Education (DE),

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  Distance Learning (DL),

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  dlearning,

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  D-Learning,

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  Online Learning (OL),

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  Mobile Learning (or m-Learning) or Nomadic Learning,

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  Remote Learning,

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  Off-site Learning,

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  a-Learning (anytime, anyplace, anywhere learning),

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  Virtual learning.

Also, of late, terms such as:

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  Instructional Technology,

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  Learning Technologies,

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  Learning Management System,

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  Massive open online courses (MOOCs) precise definitions of such terms can be found in the literature (see, for example: ACM eLearn; CDLP; CMC, 2008; Imperial; LTSC, 1996; Moore, 1996; Tsai & Machado, 2002; and Wiki, 2014).

While we concede to that there is considerable difference among some of these in one or more of the issues involving pedagogy, learner purpose, computerized application, stake-holder parties involved, tools used, technology required, and timing and scheduling, we tend to regard e-learning as an all-encompassing generic term. This is quite in line with our predisposition in this chapter for we wish to consider e-learning in its generic form equally akin to any flavor of it. We will dig into e-learning deeper.