subject: The Influence of Web 2.0 on e-Learning [print this page] The Influence of Web 2.0 on e-Learning The Influence of Web 2.0 on e-Learning
Web 2.0 refers to various online apps and websites that make it possible for internet users to contribute and collaborate effectively. As a fine example of a Web 2.0 website, Wikipedia makes it possible for web users to generate and share information in a truly democratic way.
Web 2.0 has provided billions of internet users with unimaginable features. Capabilities of Web 2.0 are superb as far as collaboration and communication tasks are concerned. E-learning began with a CBT or Computer Based Training approach a few years ago. Integration of networking and collaborative tools in a Learning Management System has completely changed the process of online learning.
Collaboration is the best feature of Web 2.0 that can help e-learning:
The addition of a collaborative tool to an existing online learning platform was not a significant problem. It was the challenge of actualizing collaboration over a Learning Management System platform that was more serious. Web 2.0 helped proved very helpful in realizing the goal of a collaborative atmosphere over a learning platform.
Everyone has an account on popular networking and blogging websites nowadays. That is the reason why learners take little or no time in learning about the basic working of a communication and collaborative platform around.
Setting up a Learning Management System is very easy now
With the help of open-source online learning applications having Web 2.0 features, it is now possible for anyone to start an online learning community. Any organization or group can now start online learning courses supported by a modern learning management system that supports collaboration and communication at all levels. Web 2.0 has made it very easy to produce and deliver e-learning courses. In the e-learning arena, blogs, podcasts, and wikis are just the beginning.
Web 2.0 does not change the scope of a learning activity performed over a virtual environment. However, it does increase the efficiency of a learning activity by allowing learners to collaborate and communicate more effectively.
