2. MENU What is E-learning? Types of E-learning Benefits of E-learning E-learning in Costa Rica

3. What is E-learning? In a research carried out by the Namahn Institute in Belgium, e-learning was defined as the use of Internet technologies to deliver a broad array of solutions that enhance knowledge and performance. It is based on three fundamental criteria: E-learning is networked, instant updating, storage and retrieval, distribution and sharing of information is therefore possible.

4. E-learning is delivered to the end-user via a computer using standard internet technologies. E-learning focuses on the broadest view of learning: learning solutions going beyond the traditional paradigms of training.

5. Types of E-learning Purely online - no face-to-face meetings Blended Learning - combination of online and face-to-face Synchronous (occurring at the same time) Asynchronous (not happening at the same time) Self-study Instructor-led group

6. Benefits of E-learning Convenience and Portability Cost and Selection Flexibility Higher Retention Greater Collaboration Global Opportunities

7. Convenience and Portability Courses are accessible on your schedule Online learning does not require physical attendance Learning is self-paced (not too slow, not too fast) You're unbound by time - courses are available 24/7 You're unbound by place - study at home, work, or on the road Read materials online or download them for reading later

8. Cost and Selection Choose from a wide range of courses to meet your needs. Degree, Vocational, and Certificate programs Continuing Education Individual courses Wide range of prices to fit your budget Go back to school to get a degree, learn a new skill, learn a new craft, or just have fun!

9. Flexibility Online learning accommodates your preferences and needs - it's student-centered Choose instructor-led or self-study courses Skip over material you already know and focus on topics you'd like to learn Use the tools best suited to your learning styles

10. Higher Retention Online learning will draw you to topics you like and enjoy. Studies show that because of this and the variety of delivery methods used to reach different types of learners, retention is frequently better than in a traditional classroom.

11. Greater Collaboration Technology tools make collaboration among students much easier. Since many projects involve collaborative learning, the online environment is far easier (and often more comfortable) to work in since learners don't have to be face-to-face.

12. Global Opportunities The global learning community is at your fingertips with online learning. The technologies used give online instructional designers the ability to build in tools that take you to resources you may never see in a traditional classroom.

13. E-learning in Costa Rica T he Omar Dengo Foundation (O.D.F) and the University of Costa Rica (U.C.R.) are one of the most recognized institutions in regards to the development of e-learning software and non-profit projects to improve the Costa Rican public education. Click on the links to have a deeper insight of the programs currently carried out by both institutions: http://www.fod.ac.cr http://www.extension.ucr.edu/online/instructor/resources. html http://www.extension.ucr.edu/online/instructor/resources. html

14. Credits This Power Point Presentation was designed by Jose Miguel Vargas, Gerardina Marín and Alejandra Cascante for academic purposes.