Directions: Find words or
phrases standing for the following acronyms with short descriptions.
1.
IT
"IT" stands for information technology.
2. ICT
ICT stands for 'Information Communication Technology'.
3. CAI
Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI)
4. CALL
Computer-assisted language learning (CALL)
5. WBI
Web based instruction (WBI)
6. CBI
Content-based instruction (CBI)
7. CMC
Computer-mediated communication (CMC)
8. TELL
(TELL) or Technology-enhanced language learning
9. MUD
Multi-user dungeon (MUD)
10. MOO
Master of Orion (MoO or MOO)
Directions: Describe
the following terms.
Synchronous Tools
Examples of
synchronous e-learning are online chat and videoconferencing. Any learning tool
that is in real-time, such as instant messaging that allows students and
teachers to ask and answer questions immediately, is synchronous. Rather than
learning on their own, students who participate in synchronous learning courses
are able to interact with other students and their teachers during the lesson.
The main
benefit of synchronous learning is that it enables students to avoid feelings
of isolation since they are in communication with others throughout the
learning process. However synchronous learning is not as flexible in terms of
time as students would have to set aside a specific time slot in order to
attend a live teaching session or online course in real-time. So it may not be
ideal for those who already have busy schedules.
Asynchronous Tools
Asynchronous
learning on the other hand can be carried out even when the student or teacher
is offline. Coursework and communications delivered via web, email and messages
posted on community forums are perfect examples of asynchronous e-learning. In
these instances, students will typically complete the lessons on their own and
merely use the internet as a support tool rather than venturing online solely
for interactive classes.
A student is
able to follow the curriculum at their own pace without having to worry about
scheduling conflicts. This may be a perfect option for users who enjoy taking
their time with each lesson plan in the curriculum and would prefer to research
topics on their own. However, those who lack the motivation to do the coursework
on their own may find that they do not receive significant benefit from
asynchronous learning. Asynchronous learning can also lead to feelings of
isolation, as there is no real interactive educational environment.
Ideally,
effective e-learning courses should include both asynchronous and synchronous
learning activities. This allows students and teachers to benefit from the
different delivery formats regardless of their schedules or preferred learning
methods. This approach provides students with access to immediate help if
needed, while still giving them the ability to learn at their own pace.