What is eLearning?
In simple words, eLearning is learning using electronic methods. Unlike traditional learning methods, where people sit in classrooms and listen to lectures, they interact in an online learning environment through a screen. This may include watching a video, clicking through a slideshow, or answering questions online. There are two main types of eLearning: synchronous and asynchronous.
Synchronous eLearning takes place in real time. Imagine a virtual classroom where everyone is logged in at the same time, often involving a live learning session. Synchronous eLearning encourages real-time interaction, as students can ask questions, chat with classmates, and raise their hands virtually. On the other hand, asynchronous eLearning is about learning at your own pace and on your own schedule. Students can attend lessons whenever they want, watch a pre-recorded lesson, or answer questions while doing other tasks. Asynchronous eLearning is ideal for students who prefer to revisit a tutorial to better grasp it without disrupting the flow of the rest of the class. Also, people can choose to study when they feel most productive, whether that’s early morning or late at night.
Although eLearning is flexible and convenient, it requires a different level of discipline. No one is looking over students’ shoulders or watching them in case they pull out their phones to scroll. Students are responsible for staying on track, which is especially tricky when we’re talking about younger students. As a parent, it may seem overwhelming to prepare your children for an online learning environment, but it can be a simple process. Below, you will find everything about the basic tools used in eLearning to better prepare yourself, as well as tips to help your children adapt to a new learning environment.
Platforms and Tools Most Used in the Online Learning Environment
Video Conferencing Software
Video conferencing software is the backbone of every online learning environment, as it hosts the physical environment that becomes the digital classroom. These platforms, such as Zoom, are not only online classes for your children but also their breakout rooms, where they can start conversations, exchange tips about lessons, and connect with their peers. There is also video conferencing software that integrates with other systems, such as Microsoft Teams, so it is easy to share documents and files or collaborate on projects with other classmates.
Virtual Learning Environment Platforms
Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) contain everything your child needs to succeed in the digital classroom without managing multiple applications at once. They help students get all their course materials, forums, assignments, and grades organized. Everything is in one place, so they can focus on learning. This also saves parents from the trouble of constantly trying to help them find missing documents or links. VLEs also provide opportunities for interaction between students and teachers, provide quizzes and assignments, and sometimes even multimedia tools for presentations or group projects. Most importantly, however, they send notifications about upcoming dates and lessons so your kids can stay on schedule.
Learning management systems
The LMS tracks all of the students’ classes, assignments, grades, and even their attendance. It’s like an always-on digital school that kids can access anywhere. LMSs are the go-to place for educators to upload slides, videos, quizzes, and any other type of learning resources. However, children may find these platforms too structured. They may be good at keeping everyone organized, but they seem too professional, which many younger students don’t like.
eLearning Authoring Tools
Authoring eLearning tools help educators create engaging, interactive, and sometimes fun online courses. Thanks to these tools, teachers can add videos, simulations, clickable content, and even games to lessons, creating a completely different experience for children. Many authoring tools are also easy to use, so anyone can try to create lessons and encourage children to stop taking in information and start engaging with the learning content.
Communication Tools
When it comes to the online learning environment, communication tools keep everyone connected. They ensure that even though your child may be far away from their teacher or classmates, they can connect with them instantly. These tools are best suited for real-time conversations and asynchronous conversations for shy children who prefer more time to think. The best part is that communication tools can adapt to all types of personalities. Whether your child needs face-to-face communication or prefers texting, they can find a format that works best for them.
Digital Learning Games
Organization and structure are very important in an online learning environment, but it’s also fun, especially for kids. This is where digital learning games come in. These games don’t just distract students from the hard work they do during lessons or activities; they are designed to help them learn. They use problem solving, puzzles, or collaborative challenges to make complex topics understandable to young minds and give them more opportunities to collaborate, 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 are designed to break things down and make complex topics feel manageable. Most learning apps and platforms come with libraries of learning resources available online at any time. The best part is that they are self-paced. Therefore, your children do not have to feel left behind because someone in their class is more advanced. Finally they can learn at their own pace because they have access to libraries when they need them.
How to Help Your Child Adjust to a New Learning Environment
A Stable Cycle
Κids develop normally. This is because they need that predictability to feel grounded. Establishing a stable routine helps create a sense of stability, which makes online learning easier. Start by setting consistent times for when they come in, when they take a break, and when they end their day. Don’t forget to include regular breaks in the routine. A 15-minute break to stretch, grab a snack, or scroll through social media can really keep them from feeling overwhelmed.
Emotional Support
Your child will need emotional support to stay motivated as they adjust to a new learning environment. If they feel frustrated by staring at the screen, give them a break. Encourage them to go for a walk, eat good food, or just relax. Even if they are frustrated or bored, listen to what they have to say and give them a shoulder to cry on. And, of course, don’t forget to praise them for their achievements or success throughout the day.
Working with New Tools
The online learning environment can feel overwhelming to children when they have to deal with all the new tools and technology platforms. Therefore, your priority should be to help them become comfortable with the tools they will use. For example, you log in together, click, and test new software. Practice is also important, so set up a few practice sessions where they can use the features of their new platform. Now, if they ever run into problems, teach them how to solve simple problems, like checking their Internet connection, restarting their laptop, or contacting tech support.
Patience and Flexibility
Your child’s online learning journey won’t always go smoothly. There will be technical problems, boredom, challenging tests and assignments, and days when they are completely unmotivated. The key here is to be patient with them and be ready to step in if needed. You also need to be flexible. They may need to adjust their schedule a few times or study in different rooms in the house for a change of location. Be open to change and stay calm so you don’t stress yourself further.
The conclusion
Helping your child adjust to an online learning environment may seem challenging at first, but with patience, you can make the transition easier for them. Remember, your support and encouragement play an important 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 succeed in the online classroom.
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