The announcement of an online program by IESE made me realize that e-Learning seems to be entering its next phase. The supporting technology has developed substantially – video-streaming a view from a classroom has become within reach of universities, the receiving end – participants in geographical dispersed locations- has mostly access to broadband and has software like Realplayer or Mediaplayer standard on their machines.

 

The real difference I notice is the break with the on-line repository age (software like Blackboard), which only posted material but had very little interaction taking place. Probably not so much due to software limitations, but more due to lecturers still figuring out how to bring the classroom interaction into the electronic environment. Engaging students digitally is a new skill to learn. But going back, we progressed  from writing with chalk on a blackboard, back to the class, to colorful powerpoints with pictures en video and direct questions and answers to engage the students. So, we will also learn how to get that interaction in this next phase.

 

If you know of any great examples, just let me know!