eLearning: Next Generation Ready?

In preparing for a webinar hosted by iCohere: Next Generation eLearning, one concept by Bernard Luskin really caught my attention:

To many, the “e” means electronic, but I assert that the “e” means more than electronic when applied to e-learning. It actually means “exciting, empirical, empathetic, extra, emerging, energetic, exceptional, early, eloquent, everywhere, ephemeral, extended, effortless, epic, evangelistic, eclectic, engaging, extended” learning — and more.  Think “Exciting”: E-Learning and the Big “E”

Luskin wrote from the perspective of learning psychology. However, this concept of the “e” meaning more than electronic aptly describes next-generation eLearning. Unfortunately eLearning too often has become a set of text-filled pages. When an adult learner finds eLearning to simply encompass reading screens of text then answering multiple-choice questions, the exciting core of eLearning is lost.

In next generation eLearning, strategy, focus, and platform are critical. For eLearning to remain a vibrant tool, it must be an inherent component of an overall education strategic plan. Beyond tactics, deliberate eLearning strategy must be articulated that keeps focus on the adult learner. Such strategy occurs before education events (f2f or digital) and is continuously improved. The adult learner focus recognizes first and foremost the needs of the learner and then ensures that content experiences meet and exceed those needs. Thus, eLearning becomes transformative. In associations especially, the platform(s) for design, development, and delivery must work seamlessly and with transparent ease.  With cohesive and unified platform(s), eLearning can be constantly ready for delivery across devices.

These facets – strategy, focus, and platform – are three of ten that guide next generation eLearning.   Begin now for next generation eLearning with a Big “E.”