e-Learning, a Summary  VLE/ MLE ’ s  Learning Platforms  SCORM  e-portfolio ’ s

VLE/ MLE ’ s  There are two terms currently being used when referring to environments that are involved in the management of the learning process: VLEs (Virtual Learning Environments) and MLEs (Managed Learning Environments). The two terms are frequently confused.

VLE  The term Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) refers to the components in which learners and tutors participate in 'on-line' interactions of various kinds, including on-line learning.

MLE  The term Managed Learning Environment (MLE) includes the whole range of information systems and processes of the school (including its VLE if it has one) that contribute directly or indirectly to learning and learning management.

So …  In effect, an MLE might consist of a whole range of different software and systems that interrelate, share data and contribute to learning management.  A VLE refers to a specific piece of software that enables learners and staff to interact, and includes content delivery and tracking.

To illustrate

Learning Platforms  Content: this includes tools that enable the delivery of electronic learning content, whether this content is written in-house, or imported from other sources.  Communications: this area covers electronic tools that support any type of communications and group work, for example, , discussion lists and bulletin boards.

… continued  Management: this includes any tools or systems that support the management of the teaching and learning process. It is more effective if any new learning management tools can share data with existing management information systems the college already has in place.

A Model

What Is SCORM?  The U.S. Department of Defence and its partners initiated the Advanced Distributed Learning Initiative to ensure that all branches of the US military could use, exchange, manage, track, and re-use their learning technologies, content, and data no matter the source or application (Hodgins, 2000). Their current documentation is called the Sharable Content Object Reference Model, or SCORM.

… Continued  SCORM provides a foundational reference model upon which anyone can develop models of learning content and delivery. For example, systems should be able to "share" data about how learners access courses and their progress in those courses.

… and more!  SCORM provides the framework and detailed implementation reference that enables content, technology, and systems using SCORM to "talk" to each other, thus ensuring interoperability, re- usability, and manageability.

For the school ’ s VLE this means …  If a resource is SCORM compliant it will run properly on their VLE.  RBC ’ s, GFL ’ s and schools will require resources to be SCORM compliant or they will not invest.

Put simply  Resources can contain text, pictures, videos and sounds.  SCORM allows these resources to ‘ talk ’ to a VLE saying ‘ this is where I am, this is what I do and this is where you can record pupil information ’.  Everything then fits in to place and works together!

What is an e-Portfolio? A system which allows users, to selectively record any abilities, events, plans or thoughts that are personally significant; it allows these records to be linked, augmented or evidenced by other data sources and allows the user to integrate institutional data with their personal data.

Which means that … It creates self-awareness Promotes reflection Supports enrichment through commentary and feedback. It grows and matures as the user accesses it over time. It provides tools for aggregating assets and sharing them with diverse audiences. It is a personal journal, feedback and collaboration system.