Online vs Remote vs Virtual Learning
Our Simulation and Immersive Learning group at Capita (formerly G2G3) is moving from a full focus on face to face delivery over the last four years into a new chapter in our history. As part of that transition, several terms started to be mentioned that I had previously recognised as doing one and the same thing. Boy, was I wrong! Not the first time and definitely not the last time. But at least I found out I was not alone...
Okay, Jaro, now you have read through a few articles, definitions and blogs online and are the world's expert on the distinction between online, remote and virtual learning? Well, not exactly. Most of them raised more questions than answers. But let me share my findings thus far - and then let me know below that I got it all wrong - I am keen to actually understand this!
Remote Learning classes are originally designed to be taught in a face to face format and are now conducted remotely. Learners are therefore typically logging in to watch a live stream of the scheduled lecture (synchronous learning). Designed for a F2F interaction, these courses typically have the advantage of engaging audience directly with the lecturer in real time but they do not typically utilise the full variety of audience engagement Online Learning offers. Whilst embracing the "new normal," we have seen a plethora of these in the last 6 months; Universities, professional learning organisations as well as consultancies were almost overnight left with the massive challenge of moving their classes from F2F to a remote environment and the varied amounts of success that brought. To be fair, most of our Channel Partners were reporting that most of their course ratings went up once delivered remotely!
On the other hand, Online Learning refers to classes that have been specifically designed to be taught in an online format, and therefore all the assignments, content, quizzes, test or supplemental readings are delivered through the world wide web (is anyone still actually using that term?). This can include an e-learning, interactive, easy-to-navigate online environment designed to stir discussion and even emotions, often enabling peer-to-peer discussions, and the interactions are usually asynchronous (consuming content at your own pace). However, in some cases they can also be synchronous (participants learning at the same time), depending on the intended interaction levels and outcome of the class. Unlike Remote Learning, it therefore potentially requires a more disciplined approach from the students to progress in the course, meet deadlines, and targets, in exchange for a bigger flexibility.
You may also see the term Blended Learning appearing all over the place, typically referring to a combination of face to face and online learning but, in some cases, referring to a combination of Remote and Online learning. Confused yet?
Finally, Virtual Learning. Now, that appears to be a tough one because in daily interactions, when we talk about online conferences, schools or education, we often substitute "online" for "virtual". Whilst this does not appear entirely wrong, some bloggers like David Castaneda reckon that the term "virtual interaction" is liked to "not actual", and therefore can cause confusion and should be used in relation to virtual reality, virtual room or a virtual platform. However, when it comes to meetings, learning or training, we should be using the term "online".
Let me know below if you knew the difference between Online and Remote Learning already? What is your opinion on the distinction between the two? What have I missed or mixed up? Has this changed your view on what we should be calling Remote/Virtual/Online learning?
Please note, the article does not reflect opinions of Capita PLC, just my own personal view.