Virtual Learning Environments

1. a mechanism to deliver learning material
2. access to learning resources
3. tools to enable communication, discussion and collaboration amongst learners and with the instructor
4. assessment tools
5. a student tracking system

These could either be individual tools that are programmed to function in an integrated manner or they can be facilities provided by a single product. Users in a VLE are assigned roles of a student, a teacher and an administrator. Each role comes with rights, which follow a hierarchy.

Two other popular terms that are used to refer to these environments are: Content Management System (CMS) and Learning Management System (LMS). The difference between these terms is often debated and there does not seem to be much of a consensus amongst learning professionals on the exact distinction between them.

Features of a VLE

Active Engagement

A VLE offers a platform for learners to actively participate in activities, discuss their ideas and collaborate on projects. And this is true for both courses that are only partly supported by a VLE as well as distance learning courses that are entirely offered on a VLE.

A Community of Learners

This is a significant factor in the case of distance learning. The interactive features offered by a VLE can help simulate a class room environment, enabling collaboration and discussion. The presence of a community of learners can make a course more interesting and effective than a CD based course. Even in the case of a regular instructor lead learning, a VLE enables discussions to be taken outside the class room. Often, students who are reluctant to participate in face to face discussions are eager to share and contribute in an online environment.

Data base of Resources

A VLE can also serve as a repository of resources. Often informative links, assignment questions and class discussions can be lost between emails and papers. But with a VLE everything is saved. A well regulated forum can serve as store house of FAQ type of questions that students can repeatedly visit. Links and class room assignments are stored in specific locations, making it easier to access them later. In other words, A VLE can help manage all the information that is exchanged through the entire learning process.

Administrative Tools

VLEs can also track learner information, helping facilitators keep a tab on how frequently a learner has accessed resources and participated in discussions. The platform also allows learners to submit assignments and be graded for the same. These tools are especially useful when a facilitator has to guide a large learner group.