Flexibility is one of the greatest assets of eLearning. It allows the learners to choose the place and, in asynchronous mode, the time that suits them to advance in their learning path. That said, eLearning offers other forms of flexibility that are less known. Here is a mini glossary that might help you understand them better!

What is ATAWAD?

The acronym ATAWAD — a trademark registered by Xavier Dalloz —, for “Any Time, Anywhere, Any Device”, describes the capacity of a user in a mobility situation to connect to a network in order to access the content without time, location or device constraints. Its long version is ATAWADAC, AC meaning “Any Content”.

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ATAWAD is a trademark registered by Xavier Dalloz.

Other term used: ATAWADAC

What is blended learning?

Blended learning is a method that combines elements of traditional classroom teaching and online learning. Currently, it combines instructor-led training — also known as “face-to-face” training — and eLearning by integrating one or more of these approaches, including traditional eLearning, mobile technologies, serious gaming, virtual environments and immersive simulation.

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Other terms used: mixed learning, integrated learning

What is mobile learning?

Mobile learning is a way to complete the learning process using mobile devices such as smartphones, laptops, handheld computers, digital tablets and MP3 players. This type of learning relies on “just-in-time learning” and knowledge transfer that can take place anywhere, anytime. Mobile learning is personal, portable, collaborative, interactive, and adapted to a place and a context.

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Other terms used: mlearning, mLearning, m-learning

What is microlearning?

Microlearning is an eLearning approach based on short informative sessions — which last in general from a few seconds to 15 minutes — on a given topic and with a specific purpose.

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A microlearning session can take different forms: a short demonstrative video, a multiple-choice quiz sent by text, a recall on a notion sent by email. This type of learning is built on repetition and participation.

What is a MOOC?

The acronym MOOC means Massive Open Online Course. That type of training distinguishes itself by the fact that it is dispensed via the Internet. It can be offered by institutions of education, organizations and even individuals and in certain cases lead to a certification.

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Other term used: Massive Online Open Course

Catherine Meilleur

Author:
Catherine Meilleur

Creative Content Writer @KnowledgeOne. Questioner of questions. Hyperflexible stubborn. Contemplative yogi.

Catherine Meilleur has over 15 years of experience in research and writing. Having worked as a journalist and educational designer, she is interested in everything related to learning: from educational psychology to neuroscience, and the latest innovations that can serve learners, such as virtual and augmented reality. She is also passionate about issues related to the future of education at a time when a real revolution is taking place, propelled by digital technology and artificial intelligence.