Trends in eLearning for 2019

Approximate reading time: 2m 41s

This article discusses the current trends in eLearning, including its pros and cons.

The most prominent trends in eLearning

eLearning is a new era in the educational industry. It provides the individual with the flexibility to learn based on their own time, pace, and location. The market value of eLearning was estimated at 2.5 billion dollars in 2013, 7.8 billion dollars in 2016, and according to numerous forecasts it is likely to grow to 15.72 billion dollars by 2021. This shows the huge potential of the online learning market. As the distance learning industry grows among the new generations, let us look at the pros and cons:

Advantages of online learning:

• Flexibility
  One of the main advantages of online learning is its flexibility. It helps us manage our busy schedules by allowing us to take online courses in small modules/sections whenever it is convenient for us.
• Mobility
  This is very useful in our busy schedules. With eLearning, we have the opportunity to study from any location – in the park, on the bus, on the subway, instead of being limited to the classroom.
• Low cost
  eLearning is much more affordable, as no fee is required for trainers and equipment. Taking travel costs into account as well, eLearning is a cheaper option than traditional learning.
• Performance monitoring
  The result after the end of each topic and module is presented statistically in the distance learning system. It enables learners to self-assess and improve. The instructor is able to monitor their performance more easily than in traditional, offline education.

Disadvantages of online learning:

eLearning can never replace the need for a human instructor. Even if eLearning is useful in many ways, computers cannot perform all tasks because of:

• Lack of focus
  Both learners with weak concentration and those who are poorly motivated can quickly fall behind in an online course. Without a fixed schedule or routine, it is difficult for learners to meet certain deadlines or goals.

• Lack of social and cultural interaction
  In eLearning, the connection between learners is minimal, which makes it challenging for some of them.

• Learners may feel isolated
  Without interaction with the outside world, there is a possibility that learners may feel isolated.

Although online learning has many disadvantages,  there are already many successful eLearning platforms such as Udemy, Udacity, Teachable, etc. Learner participation is of primary importance for the success of eLearning platforms. They can be effective only if they offer something that captures the learner's attention, such as: 

1. Group discussions
A powerful discussion forum centered around the course is likely to be the first option that makes eLearning interactive and much more engaging. On the other hand, there may simply be comment fields in the article, but scrolling and searching will be unpleasant and difficult for learners. 

2. Interactive quizzes
Questions asked after each session as module assessment and a comprehensive topic assessment test are always interesting. 

3. Pay special attention to visual presentation
Using interactive online learning and multimedia enables learners to be kept on task and engaged with the topic. 

What are the current trends in eLearning  

As in any sector undergoing change, e-learning is also constantly evolving. Therefore, it is high time to discuss what the current trends in online learning are:  

• Mobile learning
  In the last few years, the recognition of mLearning or mobile learning has been spreading. It is flexible, the offered courses are "responsive"; learning can run smoothly on desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Another major advantage of mLearning is that you can learn from any geographical location and  whenever you want.  
• Microlearning 
  A course that lasts 60 minutes can be divided into smaller modules. It is much easier and more affordable to create such courses, as well as maintain them.  
• Gamification (from English: the application of game elements and mechanics in non-game situations.
  To improve user engagement, gamification uses game elements. This is a technique for transforming learning into a game. In this way, you can achieve a strong impact and immersion in the learning process.
• Interactive videos
  Learning through videos will continue to become more and more popular. As a result, interactive video turns the passivity of ordinary videos into rich interactive experiences and will be used for formal training. 
• Social learning 
  Although there is a need for formal training that meets specific learning outcomes, there will be an increase in social learning programs in which learners can communicate, discuss, collaborate, and exchange ideas to solve problems.