Week 7 eLearning Authoring Tools

This week I learned more about eLearning which is learning with a digital device or tool. The combinations are endless. An elearning authoring tool is a software program that enables users to create learning content, lessons and courses using text, media, and interactions. According to Pappas, there are seven benefits of using rapid eLearning authoring tools which include 1. Repurposes existing eLearning 2. Gives everyone the opportunity to create winning eLearning content. 3.Packages the eLearning content for stress-free deployment. 4. Reduces eLearning development time. 5. Reduces eLearning development costs. 6. Update and upscale with ease. 7. Publishes to a wide range of eLearning platforms.

There are three types of eLearning, Synchronous learning, asynchronous learning, and blended learning. Synchronous learning refers to cases in which learners are engaging with an instructor in real-time. For example, a classroom is a form of synchronous learning because students in the room joined with the content at one time. Online classes may also function synchronously where everyone meets online at one particular time.

Asynchronous learning, is commonly self-paced, with students engaging with the material at different times. For example, in the online courses we are taking at Sul Ross University, we usually post our feedback about a reading or an article at different times of the day, with our instructor monitoring updates and responding not necessarily in real-time. There is also time restraints associated, such as an assignment to post within one week's time.

Blended learning is a combination of distance learning synchronous or asynchronous with face-to-face interactions like in a classroom. All of which I have been a part of.

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References

CommLab India Bloggers, (n.d). What are Synchronous and Asynchronous eLearning? Retrieved April 23, 2020, from https://blog.commlabindia.com/elearning-design/types-of-elearning

Pappas, C., ( 2016, February 16,). Rapid eLearning Authoring Tools: 7 Benefits For eLearning Professionals. Retrieved April 23, 2020, from https://elearningindustry.com/rapid-elearning-authoring-tools-7-benefits-for-elearning-professionals

Loh, K., (2016). eLearning Authoring Software. Retrieved on April 24, 2020 from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPBSqDrNbt8