Virtual Learning Environments, Learning Management Systems

Virtual learning environments (VLEs) are not new. They have been introduce well over a decade ago but the fact that it’s still being talked right now like it’s a novel concept is a stinging reflection over the extensive range of adoption, or lack thereof. At its core, a VLE is a suite of teaching and learning tools to enhance the learning experience of students by integrating IT into the curriculum. But it doesn't just refer to an institution simply establishing a computer lab for students or teachers to use or changing the school website design.

Composition of VLE

When you say VLE, it generally refers to the whole set of tools that involves breaking down the curriculum into segments which can then be distributed or assigned to students to work on. The teacher can also track down the progress of each student and they can no longer make excuses for not doing their homework and assignments. The communication between teacher and student is also expanded outside of the classroom setting to include e-mail, chat and group forums. It is up to the teacher however to change the e-portfolios.

The use of the Web is properly maximized so students and teachers can have access to external sources outside of the school curriculum to further enhance the lessons. By the way, the Internet is also a good source to further improve the set of learning tools through free expansion packs of learning management systems or LMS.

Distance learning?

It does sound logical for schools to utilize Web 2.0 tools to further aid students enhance their learning. Apart from the initial investment, which can be expensive depending on the size of the institution, the VLE will still be cheaper and more efficient in the long run. It is to the discredit of the school if the learningmanagement systems are only being used for distance learning. That would totally undermine the potential of LMS.

In fact, the VLE is ideal to be used within the classroom setting; a viable change of pace from the typical teaching where information is spoon-fed.

People not tools

Ultimately, however, these virtual management environments are only as good as the people utilizing them. Far too often, schools have invested into the technology but haven’t fully maximized its potential due to the lack of training by the teachers and students who will be using them.

Even today, you conduct an informal survey of schools within your neighborhood and maybe their claims that they are all using learning management systems, but chances are most of them have not fully integrated the tools into their curricula. It takes a lot of commitment for teachers to learn the technology and apply it to the lesson. But it starts with the support and promotion by the schools themselves.