Thinking about e-Learning

Bela Markus

The economy of information society is based on the creation, dissemination and exploitation of data, information and knowledge. This will be one of the dominant features of this century, and will play a fundamental role in generating a recovery in growth and an increase in employment. The extended use of the potential offered by information and communication technologies (ICT) will create new service markets; will speed-up administrative and decision-making procedures. Developments in the ICT have also had a huge effect on the learning environments. For the period of 2007-2010 an FIG Working Group (WG 2.2) was established by Commission 2 (Professional Education) on e-Learning. The introduction gives an overview of the structure of Commission 2 and its mission and workplan for the period of 2007 – 2010. This paper aimed to be a discussion paper on the main objectives of WG 2.2 – e-Learning. What is e-Learning? By the simplest definition: e-Learning is a learning process created by interaction with digitally delivered content, network-based services and tutoring support. Adding more details on methodology: e-Learning is any technologically mediated learning using computers whether from a distance or in face to face classroom setting (computer assisted learning), it is a shift from traditional education or training to ICT-based personalized, flexible, individual, self-organized, collaborative learning based on a community of learners, teachers, facilitators, experts etc. Broadening our view wider: cultural and social impacts are key defining characteristics. e-Learning is a foundation of the globally networked and interdependent economy, which is advanced by ICT. The author presents the status, trends and the importance of business models of e-Learning.