What is e-learning? Electronically-supported learning (eg. web, , chat, simulation, learning platforms, TV, cell phones, MP3 players, tutorial software) Offers learners flexibility—time, place, methods, individuality

What e-learning is not Using computers during classtime

A Brief History of e- learning As soon as computers became regularly available in schools (early 1980s), programs began E-learning platforms for all subjects began appearing at universities mid- 80s.

Questions to be asked about e-learning Does it help students learn more quickly/ efficiently? Does it decrease the workload for the instructor? Does it make lessons more cost- efficient?

Problems with e- learning Enough hardware, not properly used Initial interest fades quickly

Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Commonly-used e- learning platforms Pegasus E-city Moodle

E-learning should be: easy-to-use, fun-to-use contrast, colors meaningful interactive

Blended learning Presence: quick feedback, social aspects, clarification of ideas Time-delay can lead to deep thought, anonymity, flexibility

Instructor's role Clear guidelines and expectations Clear instructions, background info, and definitions Prompt answers to questions Monitoring student input

Functions of LMS Blackboard Data base Notebook Communication within a group Practice Coordination Feedback and evaluation

Future and Pitfalls of E- learning Wikipediaing of education Presentation vs. content Commercialization of education I-pod casting Wikibooks Touch-screen blackboards School podcasting Micro-learning

Austrian School System and E-learning Erlass issued in 2004 from Ministry Four districts Division: topic-based, subject-based, virtual classrooms Moodle in most Austrian schools

Helpful E-Learning Websites INTERACTIVE Excellent interactive site from the BBC specifically for English learners. Video and audio clips, online quizs, pen pal and message board opportunities for students. Lesson plans for teachers are also available. The website for the magazine of the same name. Lots of teeny articles. Good for lower school. Quizzes, “Fun with English” section, Audio downloads The Public Broadcasting station has some excellent lesson plans with video, audio and reading. Aimed at U.S. middle and high school students. Appropriate for upper school. The Literacy Network’s learning resources sites has abridged and original versions of news stories (some with activities and multimedia presentations). Stories are organized by topic. READING COMPREHENSION An on-line magazine for English learners by English learners. Appropriate for upper school. Great interactive site for reading comprehension. Students read a short story. They can click on difficult words for their definitions and at the end of each text there is an interactive “test” on their comprehension. Good for all levels, though the texts are pretty short. PODCASTS New podcasts on different grammar topics updates every two weeks Exaggeratedly clear voice talking about different subjects. Good for students having a very difficult time with listening comprehension. Great free podcast with a wide-range of topics. Includes an introduction to podcasts and a well-explained getting started section.