Appendix:Glossary of e-learning

The following list explains some terms (not exclusively) used in e-learning.

E-learning glossary

• e-learning - Also called CBT (see the following definition). E-learning is a general term that relates to all training that is delivered with the assistance of a computer. Delivery of e-learning can be via CD, the Internet, or shared files on a network. Generally, CBT and E-learning are synonymous, but CBT is the older term, dating from the 1980s. The term E-learning evolved from CBT along with the maturation of the Internet, CDs, and DVDs. E-learning also includes Internet-based Learning, Web-based Learning, and Online Learning.
• videobook - A book performed in video format, or a video structured similarly to a book, used chiefly in teaching.
• CBT - Computer Based Training. Also called E-learning (see definition above). CBT is a general term that relates to all training that is delivered with the assistance of a computer. Delivery of CBT can be via CD, the Internet, or shared files on a network.
• WBT - Web-based Training. Training that is delivered with the assistance of the Internet.
• LMS - Learning Management System. A system for management and tracking of the involvement of participants with specific content, usually with the assistance of a database. Typically the system tracks who is scheduled to participate in specific training programs, who has begun the program, who has completed the trainings, and what were the participants’ test scores.
• LCMS - Learning Content Management System. A system for collaborative development of E-Learning content with inbuilt resources sharing and project management processes.
• content - What is taught in a course, class, or lesson. The training objectives are often a list of the content of a course.
• synchronous e-learning - Computer-assisted training where the instructor and participants are involved in the course, class or lesson at the same time (synchronized). Web conferencing is an example of synchronous e-learning. Participants can log on with a trainer and interact with participants at multiple facilities or locations. Using LCD projectors and conference telephones, the audience of a web conference can be increased to include many staff at any location.
• asynchronous e-learning - Computer-assisted training where the instructor and participants are involved in the course, class or lesson at different times (not synchronized, or ansychronous). Examples include job aids and programs on a shared drive, web-based training (WBT), electronic bulletin boards, blogs, and email listservs. Asynchronous methods allow participants to access training materials 24/7, even when other students and/or the instructor are not present.
• electronic bulletin board - A method of communication where topics or questions are posted to a website and participants can respond.
• blog - Web log. Similar to an electronic bulletin board, except that only one individual or group can create the initial post and participants can only respond to the post. An example is http://www.blogger.com.
• electronic mailing list - Also [incorrectly] called a "listserve." Members send email to the list, which the list service then mails to all members individually. Members can then read and respond (called a post), or email the member directly. An example is http://groups.google.com.
• ASP - Application service provider. Some LCMS products are available in a format that is Internet-based or network-based. This means that there is little or no software to install on the local computer to deliver and track the training. The information is tracked totally at the remote or server location. Service is generally subscription-based, and password protected.
• ILT - Instructor Led Training. Traditional training that is facilitated by a trainer who is there in person.
• educational animation - depictions that support the learning of dynamic content by providing direct information about how changes occur over time.
• page turner - Computer Based Training which requires the participant to simply read and move from screen to screen to turn pages and read some more.
• courseware - Software that is designed for an educational program.
• NLT - National Learning Time (or Seat time) - It is the time taken for completing an e-Learning course. This is an approximation of the amount of time @80-90 percentile of the target audience will take to complete the course.
• European Computer Driving Licence - Known as ECDL within Europe and ICDL outside of Europe, it is a computer skills certification programme. The ECDL / ICDL tests practical skills and competencies and consists of seven separate modules covering computer theory and practice.
• eLML - The eLesson Markup Language is an open source XML framework for creating eLearning content based on the pedagogical concept called ECLASS.

See here for a fuller glossary providing a number of terms and ideas in e-learning.