Learning Research: eLearning Acronyms

Since the field of eLearning combines human resources, education, authoring, and design technology, it can be difficult to learn the lingo. Throughout my studies, I have been compiling a list of commonly used acronyms for my own learning and reference; I hope they can be useful to you as well.

ADL - Advance Distributed Learning
AU - Assignable Unit
CAI - Computer Assisted Instruction
CBT - Computer Based Training
CMS - Content Management System
DL - Distributed Learning
EPSS - Electronic Performance Support System
ICT - Information and Communication Technology
ILS - Immersive Learning Simulation
ISD - Instructional Design
ITS - Information Technology Services
LCMS - Learning Content Management System
LMS - Learning Management System
LTM - Long Term Memory
ML - Mental Load
NUI - Natural User Interface
OER - Open Educational Resources
PBL - Problem Based Learning
PLE - Personal Learning Environment
RLO - Reusable Learning Object
RCO - Reusable Content Object
SCORM - Sharable Content Object Reference Model
SLE - Social Learning Environments
SME - Subject Matter Expert
SoMe - Social Media
TEL - Technology Enhanced Learning
VLE - Virtual Learning Environment
WBT - Web Based Training
WM - Working Memory

This list represents only the most commonly used acronyms I have found in my studies; feel free to contact me for the comprehensive list. Thanks!

Learning Management: Cost efficient eLearning

"Cost and Resource Efficient Instructional Design for eLearning"

This 5 minute, screen-recorded presentation was created using Jing.
My apologies, there is some background noise.

Learning Evaluation: ROI and ROE

There are two types of benefits in eLearning: tangible and intangible. Tangible benefits can be converted to a dollar value, while intangible benefits are extremely difficult to convert to dollar values. "Some firms that have spent large amounts of money on new e-learning efforts have not received the desired economic advantages" (Strother, 2002), while other firms achieved "economic savings as a result of converting their traditional training delivery methods to e-learning" (Strother, 2002)

Even though some firms may not see an economic return on their investments (ROI) in tangible benefits, there are certainly intangible benefits to converting instructor led training to eLearning. Advantages such as "convenience, standardized deliery, self-paced learning, and variety of available content" (Strother, 2002) are intangible benefits that could lead to a high return on expectation (ROE).

ROI % is typically measured using the following formula:
Benefits- Total Costs x 100
     Total Costs

ROI is all about assigning costs to benefits. ROE, however, is measured based on eLearning value. What is the value of the training or learning and does that value qualify as enough benefit to the organization to justify an investment? "Wise training managers realize the bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price has been forgotten" :) Some ROE measurements include: change of learner behavior toward positive business results such as higher quality client interaction, increased production, and lower rate of turnover.

Reference:
Strother, J.B. (2002) An Assessment of the Effectiveness of e-Learning in Corporate Training Programs. IRRODL. Volume 3., No. 1. Retrieved from: http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/viewArticle/83/160