Digital Learning? Online Learning?
What is digital learning?
The word digital learning generally refers to any kind of learning that is carried out using technology. Therefore, everything involving students' digital platforms, tools, systems and applications is about digital learning. This means that online courses, conducting internet research, or even watching online videos or using digital tools and devices face-to-face with their teacher in a traditional classroom are considered digital learning.
So, are digital learning and online learning the same? Of course it is different, because online learning involves learning over the internet only. Digital learning, on the other hand, is a broader term that includes the use of both the internet and digital devices, tools, systems and applications. Online learning uses the internet as a form of communication and learning. This means that students and teacher can all be in the same room together and still embrace online learning.
What is e-Learning that covers these concepts? It is a type of learning where everything happens virtually. Students and teacher DO NOT have any face-to-face interaction. As a purely online learning experience, e-Learning includes all materials, coursework and communication that takes place online. This means that this virtual learning requires emails, forums, chat, online group discussions or video conferencing as primary learning and communication tools.
What are the main differences between digital learning and e-Learning?
These are the two most confused concepts today. The two may sound the same, but there are subtle differences between them. Here are just some of them:
Intention: Does it serve a commercial purpose?
Design: Education and training can be a meeting, event, or blended learning model.
Interaction: Is the application remote or face-to-face?
So which one should be preferred? Which teaches better? Which is more efficient?
The answer lies entirely with you :)