Modern eLearning Is More Than Just Online Learning

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Gone are the days of being limited to structured learning in a classroom for seven hours a day. Now, you’re just a few clicks away from anything you want to know. But eLearning isn’t just about getting information. It’s about experiencing it, from virtual environments to real-time simulations.

Thanks to artificial intelligence and machine learning, learning trends now feel more personal. It’s like having a private tutor who adapts to your learning style and pace. Plus, it doesn’t matter where you are. Technology has made education attainable for everyone, regardless of location. Your clients can get the credentials they need to start a new career from the privacy and comfort of their own homes.

The Early Days of eLearning

When eLearning first became an option, it primarily used PDFs and PowerPoint presentations. Students would log in, download a slide deck and read through it. The engagement was minimal, and the learning experience often felt passive.

Instructor-led sessions were delivered through webcam videos. The quality varied, and the delivery lacked the immediacy and interactivity of a traditional classroom. It was more about watching and less about participating.

Interactions between students and teachers took place on discussion boards. Students posted comments or questions, waiting for replies that could take hours or even days. The immediacy of classroom dialogue was missing.

Textbooks still played a major role, despite the online environment. The digital platform was often used to supplement traditional learning materials rather than serving as a transformative tool.

The simple Blackboard Learning Management System was the backbone of these courses. It served as a repository for grades, course materials and discussion boards, but its functionality was limited.

Initially, eLearning was a step forward from traditional methods, but it lacked the active engagement and personalization that modern eLearning offers. Today’s online learning landscape is significantly more dynamic and interactive.

Modern eLearning

Today’s eLearning is far more interactive and engaging than its predecessors. Instead of static PowerPoints, students see 3D animated demonstrations. These offer a visual and engaging way to understand complex concepts, making the learning process more compelling.

We’ve also moved into immersive 3D environments. It’s like stepping into a new world, where learning becomes an experience rather than a task. These environments allow for exploration and active learning, far removed from the passive consumption of information that learners experienced with earlier models.

Interactive skills activities are taking the place of reading and watching. Students actively engage with the content, applying what they learn in real-world situations. This hands-on approach enhances retention and understanding.

Simulated software applications bring real-world relevance to learning, providing your clients with job-ready skills in lucrative fields like information technology and healthcare.

Game-based learning introduces an element of fun and competition, increasing student engagement. Students are often more motivated to understand the material when learning turns into a game.

The new way of eLearning also includes more effective progress and task tracking. With these features, students can see their learning journey, understand their strengths and areas for improvement and stay organized.

Next Steps

MedCerts has fully embraced modernized online training, offering an array of courses that are designed to match the pace and style of each learner. The learning experience extends beyond the usual boundaries with engaging, high-quality, 3D animated demonstrations that simplify complex concepts and make them more digestible. MedCerts will give students a competitive edge, equipping them with practical skills so they’ll be ready for the future of work.

Written by

Dana Janssen

Chief Product Officer

Dana has over twenty (20) years’ experience in Allied Healthcare and Education, and currently serves as the Chief Product Officer for MedCerts where he is responsible for product vision and strategy, research, and development.

Dana joined MedCerts upon its founding in 2009, and has led the research, development, and production of the entire catalog of programs that have helped MedCerts transform the distance learning landscape. Leveraging state-of-the-art technologies and innovative instructional design practices, Dana and his team have pioneered the development of the MedCerts 12 Elements of eLearning. Each MedCerts program contains a proprietary blend of these engaging, interactive, and entertaining elements that effectively accommodate learners of all types. Dana is deeply in-tune with the needs of today’s healthcare employers and is an expert in careers and certifications related to allied health.

Dana holds a Bachelor of Science in Education (BS) degree from Valparaiso University, and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Davenport University. Dana is an avid sports fan and in his free time enjoys mountain biking, woodworking, knifemaking, and spending time with his family and pets.

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