welcome to E-learning uganda

 E- learning is a way of learning remotely without being in regular face-to-face contact with a teacher/facilitator in the classroom. In the Uganda such learning has its roots in students learning through correspondence courses.

Continuous medical training is deemed compulsory for all healthcare professionals, to ensure knowledge, skills and competencies are not only maintained but also regularly updated and upgraded. Training is important for most professions but especially in healthcare it can mean the difference between life and death. The current medical training system has many unresolved problems and issues such as the high cost of establishing and maintaining physical training centers, difficulty in meeting changing demands due to demographics and ever changing trends in disease, medical technologies and drugs.   In the busy world of healthcare, finding time to train staff can prove to be difficult. Their roles are often invaluable and it can be hard to find a convenient time to take them out of their work environment for training purposes. Online learning brings important benefits to healthcare professionals including the ability to receive training at any time, from anywhere, on any device, and

When a company has a new product, despite it being an exciting time, there is the issue of training employees on its features which may be problematic due to the time and cost involved, especially in face-to-face training. Employee productivity drops when employees are spending many hours sitting in training rooms during work hours – and when the benefits of that training are not trackable it hardly seems worth the effort. Online training solves all of these problems by being available to the employee in his/ her own free time, and saving the company the costs of bringing in a trainer, renting  spaces  for  training,  travel expenses  involved  and  lost productivity. What’s more, in the case of multinationals, when staff are trained across borders, training programs need to be adapted to different markets since a “one size fits all” approach   will   not   work.   With   elearning,   product training courses can be adapted with a minimum of fuss so that cultural learning difference

When a company has a new product, despite it being an exciting time, there is the issue of training employees on its features which may be problematic due to the time and cost involved, especially in face-to-face training. Employee productivity drops when employees are spending many hours sitting in training rooms during work hours – and when the benefits of that training are not trackable it hardly seems worth the effort. Online training solves all of these problems by being available to the employee in his/ her own free time, and saving the company the costs of bringing in a trainer, renting

The Information Technology (IT) industry moves at a fast pace characterized by continual innovation, this leads to a need for ongoing training. IT is a necessary part  of  operations  for  businesses  and  organizations alike, and introduces the latest industry standard practices and emerging trends and technologies. Employees with outdated IT skills are of little value to any business and this makes IT training is one of the most popular online courses being offered today. With online training employees can be kept on the cutting edge – an absolute necessity for any business’s survival in today’s marketplace. IT training programs respond to learners’ needs taking into account the desired knowledge and ability. Integrated  online  learning  may  include  virtual classroom interaction, individual assessment, online video,   and   multimedia   that   make   learning   more effective.  Blended learning  may  also integrate  face  to face sessions and class interaction. Such training cov

The main benefit of online training when it comes to safety and compliance is that employees can be reached everywhere, all over the world, at any time. One cannot take shortcuts when it comes to safety training and federal mandates, and face-to-face training just won’t cut it when you have employees scattered all over the country, or world for that matter. Safety and compliance training needs to be quickly updated and disseminated to employees quickly and easily - with the minimum of fuss. Online training is the only way a large number or employees in different locations can be reached at once without costing a fortune. Types of safety training offered by e-learning organizations The subjects covered in safety training programs online varies greatly, depending upon the company and industry. For example, a moving company might want to inform their employees about proper lifting procedures  to  avoid  back  injuries,  while  a  medical facility may opt for a blood borne pathogen sa

You can reduce support costs, acquire new customers and build loyalty in existing customers by offering them training online! Since your customers are already in the cloud, it only makes sense to provide them with customer training where they are already located and interacting. Sharing and engaging with content online has become the norm and customers expect companies to provide them with modern support and training in the cloud, they can then do in their own time, at their own pace, and on the go! Supporting and servicing customers can be expensive and providing online training can cut these costs and at the  same  time  increase  customer  satisfaction,  loyalty and retention. What’s more, online customer training is a great way to gain product / service feedback! Customer training might also be used as a selling point to acquire potential consumers. A buyer may feel more secure about a purchase knowing they will receive free online training. Of course if this content is also

Effective sales training develops the individual’s skills and builds on existing abilities to ultimately improve business performance through increased productivity and profitability. Good sales training courses can lead to an increase in activity levels, sales volumes and order size. There are also additional benefits to training such as improved sales force retention (since recruitment is costly),  improved  employee motivation  and engagement, and a greater receptiveness to change. Online sales training also presents a very low risk investment - you only require a 0.5% improvement in performance in order to profit from sales training and anything above that is additional profit. Online sales training offers a wide range of benefits to salespeople looking to sharpen their capabilities and build new skill sets. Good online sales training will thoroughly prepare employees for sales success by enabling employees to gain expertise and practical knowledge about successful selling, give

Customer service training is in fact the blueprint for a company’s entire support process.   A solid training program ensures that a team operates to consistently deliver  good  service  to  customers,  with  or  without  a game plan. Whilst a variety of elements go into creating a successful business, customer service is center-stage and every interaction the company has with a customer can affect its bottom line. In today's competitive marketplace, companies are perpetually searching for business practices that will set them apart and often customer  service  is  what  separates  companies  that thrive from those that fail. Offering customer service training to employees has been shown to drive sales and give businesses a strong competitive advantage. This is why  it  is  imperative  that businesses invest  in  quality programs. Broadly defined, customer service training refers to teaching employees the knowledge, skills, and competencies  required  to  increase  customer satis

On a personal level, continuous learning is about the constant expansion of skills and skill-sets through learning and increasing knowledge. As life changes the need to adapt both professionally and personally is as real as the changes themselves. On a professional level, continuous learning is about further expanding our skill-set in response to a changing environment and new developments. This is very important because we are called to respond to changes daily; for example, the introduction of computers in the workplace created a need for people to train on computers     to     complete     tasks     more     efficiently. On a personal level, the introduction of computers made us  rethink   how  we  communicate  with  people   and allowed us to keep in touch with people across the globe with just the click of a button. Continuous learning for Individuals and Groups On an individual level, continuous learning is defined by the practices the individual carries out daily in

Personalized Learning is the tailoring of pedagogy, curriculum  and  learning  environments  to  meet  the needs and learning styles of individual learners. Personalization is broader than just individualization or differentiation in that it affords the learner a degree of choice about what is learned, when it is learned and how it is learned. Elements of personalized e-learning In essence, personalized e-learning enables students to customize  a  variety  of  the  elements  involved  in  the online  education  process.  This  means  that  they  are asked to set their own goals, go at their own pace, and communicate    with    instructors    and    students to personalize the learning process. Ideally, the student is placed in charge of managing his/her own learning and is able to customize the experience by having a direct say in the processes and content that is being provided. Key elements that are customized in personalized e- learning are: the pace of learning, the instructi

While  rapid  e-learning  can  pertain  to  a  number  of things, it is generally used to describe the pace at which an e-learning course is developed. Here are the basics of rapid e-learning, as well as an explanation as to how it can be applied to the learning process as well: Rapid e-learning in the course development process Rapid e-learning is, essentially, a faster process of designing  and  developing  online-based  learning courses. Rather than spending months or even years developing a course, rapid e-learning allows creators to build lessons and content in a matter of days or weeks. Typically, this is done through PowerPoint or narrated videos which are designed to dispense information quickly and conveniently to students. Software is then utilized to test the students, as well as to provide them with activities that they can perform on their own in between pre-recorded presentations or videos. After the entire package has been developed, it is delivered to the student v

Faster internet connections and the increasing use of mobile phones and tablets with video capabilities means that using video in the e-learning process has become commonplace. We're more used to learning via video now than ever before. If you want to watch a video on how to wire a plug, plant a rose bush or bake a cake, you only need to visit YouTube and there will be hundreds of videos available, showing you step-by-step processes you need to follow to complete a task. Video brings a whole new dimension to teaching methods. If your course content involves a level of practical skill, this can be demonstrated. Whether it's building a PC or conducting a chemistry experiment, these aspects of the course will most definitely benefit from being seen rather than simply explained in text and static images. Video also helps to add a feeling of personalization to a course. A video of the tutor giving a lecture helps the students to feel a connection, to put a face to a name.

A term that is being mentioned quite often as of late, especially in corporate e-learning environments, is “micro-learning”. This teaching approach can provide a wide range of benefits to learners as well as trainers. This is primarily due to the fact that it can provide educational benefits without overwhelming the learner. It is quickly becoming one of the most popular emerging e-learning trends. What is micro-learning? Micro-learning involves learning in smaller steps, and goes hand-in-hand with traditional e-learning. Activities that are micro-learning based usually feature short term lessons, projects, or coursework that is designed to provide the student with ‘bits’ of information. For example, rather than trying to teach a student about a broad subject all at once, aspects of the topic will be broken down into smaller lesson plans or projects. Typically, micro-learning exercises are best utilized at the point where a student will actually need the information,   or   when 

Gamification is the use of game-based mechanics, aesthetics and game thinking to engage people, motivate action, promote learning and solve problems. Basically it’s the use of gaming technology to solve problems outside of the games sector. Games are created to draw people   in,   to   keep   them   playing,   to   keep   them interested, entertained and involved.     And it’s much more than just adding rewards, points, and badges to processes to motivate people – it’s the instructional method, and not just the delivery system, that provides the  elements  for  learning  in a game situation  i.e.  we must ask what pieces in games makes them engaging such as interactivity, content, story Impact of gamification A study done by Traci Sitzmann, an assistant professor of management at the University of Colorado Denver Business  School,  found  that  “employees  trained  on video  games  learned  more  factual  information, attained a higher skill level and retained information longer tha

Collaborative learning is an e-learning approach where students are able to socially interact with other students, as well as instructors. In essence, learners work together in  order  to  expand  their  knowledge  of  a  particular subject or skill. In e-learning environments, this is typically  done through live chats, message  boards,  or instant messaging. Collaborative learning is based upon the principle that students can enrich their learning experiences by interacting   with   others   and   benefiting   from   one another's strengths. In collaborative learning situations, students are responsible for one another's actions and tasks which encourages teamwork as well.   What a r e t h e a d v an t ages o f c o l l a b o r a t i ve lear n i ng o nl i n e ? T h i s m e t hod of l e a rn i ng can b e con d u c t e d e i t h e r off l i n e or on t he w e b , a nd can b e do n e a sy nc h rono u s l y or sy nc h rono u s ly .   I t  a ll ows  s t u

Blended learning Blended learning is a combination of offline (face-to- face, traditional learning) and online learning in a way that the one compliments the other. It provides individuals  with  the  opportunity  to  enjoy  the  best  of both  worlds.  For  example,  a  student  might  attend classes in a real-world classroom setting, and then supplement the lesson plan by completing online multimedia  coursework.  As  such,  the  student  would only have to physically attend class once a week  and would be free to go at their own pace (and without worrying about scheduling issues). Blended learning is often also referred to as “hybrid” learning, and can take on a variety of forms in online education environments. While some organizations may only use blended learning techniques on rare occasions, others might utilize it as a primary teaching method within their curriculum. There are two key principles commonly associated with blended learning (which are the “secrets” to its succe

If  you  are  considering  creating  an  online  course  to upload and sell online, the process may not be as challenging as you might think. As a matter of fact, thanks  to  advancements  in  modern  technology, designing   a   simple   and   straightforward   e-learning course  can  be  relatively  stress-free  (as  long  as  you already have a clear concept of what content you'd like to include and a solid core curriculum). Here are a few online tools that can help you to create an e-learning course. The LMS Most people in the online course industry will tend to side with a LMS - especially when new to the scene because it offers a large array of embedded tools that provide the administrator with the ability to create, curate and enhance content in ways that are more cost- effective than using individual tools would be. Also, the benefits of using a LMS include the all-in-one element which enables the user to create the platform (website) and the content all in the same spac

Anyone may be able to create a simple online course, however   creating   an   effective   e-learning   course   is altogether  different.  An  effective  course  takes  a  good deal of time, hard work, and a commitment to high quality content. Here are some tips that can help you create a highly effective e-learning course regardless of the material or curriculum: Know your subject material well! There is no golden rule on how much time you need to put into creating the ideal content, but one thing is certain - you need to take your time to research material before making it available to your learners. The reasons are  simple,  you want to  be  prepared  to  back  up  any claims   made   within   your   course   material,   not   all learners  digest  information  the  same  way,  and  some may   need   more   explanation   through   examples   or further proof. Online courses provided should appeal to all learning styles The design of the online course should take every lea

Tests and Quizzes play an important role in e-learning and provide an array of benefits for both the learner and the instructor. Let's first look at how they improve the experience of the instructor. Less work to be done Remember school, when tests lasted an hour at a set time of day and the instructor usually had to stay up late to grade them and then write detailed feedback for each and every individual student? We've already gone  through how e-learning  alleviates the need for testing to be done at a specific hour, but it also makes testing a hassle-free task as corrections are automated with a LMS. In the cases of "Essay Question" tests, e-learning systems are usually equipped with keyword tracking tools that grade depending on what has been mentioned in the essays. This isn't a fool-proof system but it helps save some time in comparison with long grading sessions. Unique Tests Testing and quizzing can be made unique in a LMS by randomizing question

Elements of Online Courses When creating an online course, a number of criteria must be met to ensure that students receive the benefits they signed up for. Below is a list of important ones: Consistent instructor presence: the value of feedback The role of the instructor is very important in the  e- learning process because it’s in his hands to encourage, inspire and ensure students don’t feel like they have embarked on the learning trip alone, and also because it will  ensure  that  students  will  be  tracked  and  given proper feedback which is very important throughout the learning process. To facilitate such a relationship, Learning   Management   Systems   offer   options   like instant messaging between peers, email and other tools that ensure learner and professor are but a click away from each other. A streamlined and well-designed LMS When talking about the success of a LMS, we primarily mean that we want an e-learning site that will be easy to navigate, is

E-learning makes use of many technologies - some of which have been developed specifically for it, whilst others conveniently complemented the learning process, for example computer games. Communication technologies are also widely used in e-learning. Starting with the use of email and instant messaging, message forums and social networks, we see a plethora of tools that any internet user would use in any case. There are also some technologies that work in a complementary manner to other software and enable new features, for example software that adds a whiteboard on your video conferencing tool to allow you or your peers to make changes on other people’s work for review, or screen-sharing which allows someone to make a presentation while still making comments and giving input using the microphone. E-learning makes good use of database and CMS (Content Management System) technologies. These two work hand in hand to store your course content, test results and student records. The da

SCORM, or Shareable Content Object Reference Model, defines    a    specific    way    of    constructing    Learning Management Systems and training content so that they work well with other SCORM conformant systems. Basically,  the  different versions  of  SCORM all  govern the      same      two      things: packaging      content and exchanging data at run-time. Packaging content determines how a piece of content should be delivered in a physical sense. At the core of SCORM packaging is a document entitled the “imsmanifest”.    This    file    contains every    piece    of information required by the LMS to import and launch content without human intervention. This file contains XML that describes the structure of a course both from a learner’s perspective and from a physical file system perspective.   Questions   such   as:   “Which   document should be launched?” and “What is the name of  this content?” are answered by this document. Run-time communication, or data exchan

In today’s e-learning environment the type of learning that takes place is generally divided into one of two categories: synchronous and asynchronous. Both strategies  have  their  own  pros  and  cons,  and  the technique  that  is  right  for  a  student  greatly  depends upon their method of absorbing the information that is being provided. What is synchronous learning? 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

An  e-learning  authoring  tool  is  a  software  package which developers use to create and package e-learning content deliverable to end users. According to Wikipedia.org, “a content-authoring tool is a   software   application   used   to   create   multimedia content typically for delivery on the World Wide Web. Content-authoring  tools  may  also  create  content  in other file formats so the training can be delivered on a CD (compact disc) or in other formats for various different uses. The category of content-authoring tools includes HTML, Flash, and various types of e-learning authoring tools.” Many programs can be considered authoring tools, including Flash, and PowerPoint. However, only a small group of programs specifically include support for e- learning content standards such as SCORM (Shareable Content Object Reference Model) or AICC (CBT) (Aviation Industry CBT Committee). Examples: Articulate  Storyline,  Composica,  Adobe  Authorware and Camtasia.

There  are  many  LMSs  available  depending  on  your needs and budget. There are even free systems such as open source software that by definition are 'open' i.e. the source  code  is  freely  available  for  you  to  use  and  to adapt to your own needs. Many users of open source software  will make  improvements  or  use  add-ons  for their own needs, and then put it back out into the community for others to use. Open source LMSs  can grow  rapidly  if  they  get  enough  interest  and  input. While you may not get any official support for an open source LMS, there will usually be a strong community base online with forums or email lists where you can ask for and offer help. Of course there are also commercial LMSs. If you're paying  for  an  LMS  then  you'll  get  a  more  robust product, you're also likely to get good documentation and you'll probably have a good level of support as well. A commercial product may be more stable and bug-free than a free

What is a LMS? LMS stands for Learning Management System and it's a global  term  for  a  computer  system  specifically developed for managing online courses, distributing course materials and allowing collaboration between students and teachers. A LMS will allow you to manage every  aspect  of  a  course,  from  the  registration  of students to the storing of test results, as well as allowing you to accept assignments digitally and keep in touch with your students. In essence, the LMS is the backbone of most e-learning activities. LMSs are built on various platforms, commonly PHP, .Net or Java and they will hook up to a database such as PostgreSQL,  MySQL  or  SQL  Server.  There  are  many LMSs out there, both commercial and open source. In a corporate environment such a system can be used to monitor staff, and keep records of appraisals and training. Whether your course is run for a few learners over a long period of time, or for many over a shorter period, a

E-learning is here to stay. As computer ownership grows across the globe e-learning becomes increasingly viable and accessible. Internet connection speeds are increasing,   and   with   that,   opportunities   for   more multimedia training methods arise. With the immense improvement of mobile networks in the past few years and the increase in telecommuting, taking all the awesome features of e-learning on the road is a reality with smartphones and other portable devices. Technologies such as social media are also transforming education constantly. Generally speaking, learning is expensive, takes a long time and the results can vary. E-learning has been trying for years now to complement the way we learn to make it more effective and measurable. The result now being that there are a number of tools that help create interactive courses, standardize the learning process and/or inject informal elements to otherwise formal learning processes. Several e-learning trends give us a view t