The Evolution of E-Learning and New Trends

Abstract

The electronic learning (E-Learning) considered as computer assisted learning has been around since the 1960s but its adoption and popularization mainly started after the popularization of the internet and the web. Since its introduction till present days the e-learning rapidly evolved regarding the technology and the e-learning methods/tools used. Having in mind that it has many benefits for the teacher/instructors from one side and the learners on the other, the e-learning found its application in education, business and the military or wherever is needed. The purpose of this paper is to outline, examine and discuss the evolution, the current state and the new trends in e-learning. The research showed that there is abundance of available technology and e-learning tools that foster and support the learning process. It is evident that e-learning is widely used in education and business and it is expected to grow further. On the other hand there is insufficient evidence of the particular effectiveness of the various pedagogical methodologies used for e-learning. Current state in e-learning and prevailing new trends form the foundations for future direction and development of this field for educational and training purposes. These trends include but are not limited to: blended learning, micro learning, gasification, personalized learning, Massive Open Online Courses, etc.

Keywords: E-learning, Learning Management Systems, Education, Training, Distance Learning