May 16, 2024
Written by UJJI Team
When the COVID-19 pandemic caused the world to retreat indoors, it caused a major shift in education models globally. Virtual learning environments became the norm as schools and colleges facilitated online learning modes to benefit their students.
Thanks to the convenience and flexibility they offer, virtual learning environments (VLEs) have also been adopted by many companies, especially those that shifted to a hybrid work model. It proved extremely beneficial for training and e-learning programs for employees, especially those based in remote locations.
In this article, we take a closer look at virtual learning environments and their benefits in modern corporate cultures. We discuss the different types of VLEs and understand the differences between these various modes.
We also discuss a few tips to keep in mind when implementing your own VLEs within your company. This will enable you to maximize the potential and reap the benefits of this mode of education, assisting in the development of your employees more effectively.
A virtual learning environment, or VLE, is described as an environment that simulates classroom learning methods using digital means. It allows students to pursue a digital-based curriculum with the assistance of lectures conducted by instructors online.
VLEs have been in existence since the early 19th century with teachers mailing lessons by post as early as 1840. With the advent of technology like television and radio, universities began offering televised courses in the United States.
Universities like Stanford began offering computer-based courses as early as 1973 thanks to ARPANET, the precursor to modern-day internet. When Tim-Berners Lee founded the internet, virtual environments for learning were transformed forever. It is estimated that 75% of learning institutions in the US depend on virtual platforms to deliver education.
While the pandemic forced education to shift completely to online mediums, VLEs were never designed to replace classroom learning. They are tools that enhance existing classroom teaching through e-learning.
VLEs seek to streamline the process for both educators and students alike. While students can access study material and classes irrespective of their geographical location, educators can monitor and track progress more effectively. They can complete assessments and give feedback in a shorter time frame, allowing them to pay more attention to the specific needs of their student groups.
In this section, we discuss the 3 main types of virtual learning environments that have been implemented in most companies and learning institutions. We also explore the pros and cons before comparing the 3 models to understand them better.
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Synchronous VLEs are the closest to offline modes of learning. Students are required to log into virtual chatrooms where instructors stream classes in real time. Students can also engage in discussions and interact virtually, helping them clarify doubts and get feedback instantly.
Synchronous VLEs are beneficial for students who rely on instructors to structure course content using definite timelines and regular classes. It also helps increase the level of engagement between students and instructors, allowing for better assessment throughout the course.
However, synchronous VLEs are better suited for smaller classes. As the number of students increases, it can be difficult to manage interactions and doubt-solving. It can also bring about certain technical challenges that require careful planning and well-trained instructors
Asynchronous VLEs consist of pre-recorded course content that students can access from anywhere at any time. This virtual learning mode allows students to go through the course at their own pace, with quizzes at the end of every section to test their understanding.
This can be especially true for students who are working and doing their course on a part-time basis. There is no time pressure for the curriculum to be completed on a certain date, allowing them to pace themselves and attend classes at their convenience.
While most asynchronous VLEs have messaging platforms to connect tutors to students as well as discussion forums, the engagement levels are significantly lower. It is also difficult to track progress from an educator’s standpoint, which reduces their ability to provide useful feedback and constructive criticism when necessary.
Hybrid VLEs blend the advantages of synchronous and asynchronous modes of instruction. Students in this model participate in online lectures in real time while also being given access to the pre-recorded course material for certain topics. It can also include an element of in-person classes, which can be useful if the topic requires practical lab experience.
This hybrid mode is great for courses that mix theory and practical knowledge for their students. It gives students a basic structure to follow through with the help of live lectures but allows them to complete the remaining material at their own pace.
However, hybrid VLEs require Learning Management Systems (LMS) with schedulers and effective notification systems. This will help avoid students missing out on classes or deadlines due to the hybrid nature of this virtual learning environment.
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Virtual learning environments have become popular for distance learning thanks to their various benefits, a few of which we have listed below.
Accessibility and flexibility: VLEs provide access to learning environments wherever you are. You only need a good internet connection and devices like laptops or smartphones to connect to your class. This makes it convenient to access quality courses remotely.
VLEs also give you the flexibility to choose classes according to your convenience. This helps you tackle issues such as time zones, work schedules and other commitments that might require careful planning and scheduling. VLEs can also make it easy to complete courses over longer periods without a fixed schedule dictating how you progress.
Cost-effectiveness and scalability: VLEs can reduce the number of tutors you need to conduct a class, significantly reducing the expense involved in hiring them. It also reduces the costs associated with in-person training, such as renting a physical classroom, paying electricity bills and other such expenses.
VLEs can also be beneficial when catering to a large number of students and employees. Their online mode allows for many people to join at the same time. This allows you to complete training and sessions in one shot instead of having multiple batches. The use of discussion forums and messaging services can also streamline the process of clarifying doubts.
Increased engagement and collaboration: VLEs can make use of modern technology like augmented reality and virtual simulations that gamify the learning experience. This can help increase the engagement of students through novel means and help them understand new concepts better and faster.
VLEs also create a better platform for students to collaborate after class hours. Group assignments and projects can be discussed over online video conferencing, allowing students in remote locations to contribute easily and build their network amongst their peers.
Enhanced learning outcomes and retention rates: Studies have shown that online training and learning can improve employee performance by 15-25%. This is largely due to the flexibility offered by VLEs to complete courses after work in a comfortable environment.
The improved learning outcomes can be attributed to a larger number of students completing their courses due to the convenience offered by VLEs. VLEs also encourage more testing and assessments, which helps teachers provide instant feedback and solutions for students.
Preparation for the digital workforce: With more and more organizations shifting to hybrid work models, VLEs can help employees get accustomed faster to digital modes of communication and learning.
This helps them improve their skills with IT systems and networks, increasing their capability in the digital infrastructure. It also improves the efficiency of the workforce as a whole, which can promote faster growth of the company as time goes by.
Softwares like UJJI make use of all these benefits to reduce the time required by organizations to put together training modules. It creates a learning environment that allows its employees to upskill themselves at their convenience virtually.
If you are looking to integrate Virtual Learning Environments into your training programs, then here are some of the best practices that will help you maximize the potential of this new-age learning tool.
Virtual learning environments have revolutionized the e-learning industry. They have proved effective and impactful in educational institutes as well as corporate organizations looking to upskill and train their staff.
Depending on their needs, the size of the organization and budgets, companies can a model that is best suited to their end goal. This allows them to enjoy the benefits of VLEs that help them grow their business and increase employee engagement over time.
If you are bogged down by the thought of creating training programs from scratch, then UJJI is here to help! All you have to do is load your PDFs and internal documents to our platform. Our AI-powered algorithms convert boring technical training into gamified bespoke micro-learning modules that keep your employees engaged and help them upskill quickly.
Get started today with UJJI and change the way you train and upskill your staff!
