by Revel Arroway

Created on: May 12, 2010

In today's modern, fast-paced world, more and more people are taking advantage of the Internet in order to further their education. Whether it is an additional skill needed in the workplace or a full-blown on-line course, most distance learning on the World Wide Web is done through some type of learning software. Though there are many companies that offer this software with a wide range of prices and conditions, most learning software share the same characteristics. 

Administration

Conducting an on-line course involves more than just sharing information. Students must be properly registered, their attendance recorded and payments managed. A professional learning software will include an area for administrators to handle all of the paperwork involved in the learning experience, from learners' passwords and emails to payment for the courses. 

Content

Most sophisticated learning software is prepared to accept content in a variety of formats. From uploading PDF texts to using SCORM based content, a course can be easily well presented. Besides the regular materials that will be used in the course, tutors can add files for specific classes or interested learners. 

Community

Distance learning often involves learners who are logging in at different times of day according to their own busy schedules. In order to be in touch with classmates and with the tutor, distance learning software often incorporates both a forum and an internal mail service. Many of the better softwares include e-mail alerts or RSS feeds to let learners know when they have received a message or when a new post has been placed on a forum they participate in. 

Virtual classroom

In the case of distance learning classes that take place regularly and with all participants on-line at the same time, learning software often includes a virtual classroom with many of the aspects of a regular classroom. A white board that both tutor and learners can use, an audio communication system, video plug-ins, pps compatibility arejust a few of the features that can be found on these platforms. 

Grading

A good learning platform software will include testing and evaluation. Regular quizzes can be programmed into the course; learners can follow their progress throughout the course. Final exams and essay evaluations are also features that are usually included.

Whether the organization offering the distance learning course chooses a paid learning software or an Open Source software such as Moodle, they should review the software and evaluate it on its ease-of-use for the learners and tutors and be sure it is appropriate for the type of distance learning course to be offered.

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