Virtual learning environments are online software packages that provide benefits for both teachers and students, allowing for structured learning and flexibility. They allow for the creation of study plans, tracking of student progress, and access to teaching tools. Students can attend classes around their schedules and have access to instructors through email and chats. These environments can also be used in traditional learning situations and for creating learning tools in a real-world setting.
Virtual learning environments are software packages configured to allow the educational process to take place in an online situation. Containing components that aim to provide most of the benefits of a physical classroom, the virtual learning environment will include elements that benefit both the teacher and the student. Since the 1990s, advances in Internet technology have made using a virtual learning environment practical for many people who want to pursue structured learning for college credit, in addition to attending courses that offer continuing education credits.
For the teacher or instructor, a virtual learning environment, or VLE, allows the creation of a study plan for the course. A student version can easily be created from the more detailed programs the instructor will use for the course. This feature effectively allows the instructor to create the required resources at the same time.
The virtual learning environments will also allow the instructor to track student progress on assignments, configure and administer exams to students, and keep track of all administrative details associated with any structured learning environment. The instructor has the ability to issue access to different components or resources associated with the environment. This makes it possible to share teaching tools where appropriate, or limit access to key learning tools prepared for student use.
Students in a virtual learning environment, especially a distance learning setting, have the ability to attend classes around work schedules and other commitments. Although lectures and assignments are pre-planned and can be viewed multiple times, the student still has access to the instructor. With many online learning environments, this includes email correspondence, interactive chats with the instructor and other students several times a week, and in some cases, online chats with the instructor.
While the primary application for a virtual learning environment is online, many of the resources can also be translated for use in a traditional learning situation. An instructor may choose to utilize virtual learning software to create slideshows, lesson plans, and other components that will work well in a physical classroom. One of the emerging applications is using software to create learning tools that are presented in a real-world setting but made available for review in a virtual environment.
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