In these very much more hi tech days, there are all sorts of online teaching and managment software systems to make results at the sharp end, more easily achieved. A virtual learning environment is the full name for the platform that delivers online education of all sorts, be that focused training; formal development programmes or just a learning tool for workforces/schools/education providers. Resources are shared, making communications, pooling of ideas, assessments and easier access of the learning materials across the platform. Learners are encouraged to log on to the digital classroom which is created using a vle to interact with instructors/tutors/peers of all sorts.
There is a great flexibility and accessibility as learners just go at their own pace whenever it is convenient and from anywhere that they can get internet connection, so no having to attend one particular venue. The sharing of resources is paramount as learning materials by way of documents, presentations, videos and links to other resources are all available via the vle. Discussion forums are also a valuable tool in the edcation supply – interaction between learners and educators and other advisers allow for great information sharing and feedback, which is vital. The vle complements conventional learning environments where online learning is combined with face to face instruction.