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Must-have educational tools for e-learners

By Peter Davidson

7 Apr 2014

When it comes to learning, traditional methods may be restricting to some. Whether you want to take advantage of an opportunity far away, such as a course with a university on the other side of the country, or you want to expand your horizons and learn something new online, e-learning is a great way to achieve your goals.

Must-have educational tools for e-learners

This process is efficient and effective, although there are some tools that certainly make it easier than others. Having the right tools and resources for your needs can make the difference between getting the most out of your education and not being able to take advantage of the situation fully.

These five tools can help you make the most of your e-learning experience:

Adobe Connect: Convenience and versatility are some of the hallmark features of this software. Adobe Connect is the educational version of the Adobe's online meeting software and it makes distance learning much easier for students and teachers alike. For example, it enables teachers to change presentations with ease, as well as give out real-time quizzes and encourage and facilitate interaction. The program offers breakout sessions as well. Another highlight is that this program includes tracking mechanisms, which enable real-time feedback on course set up and content. Students will always have an idea of how they are doing, thanks to allowing the ability of teachers to monitor their progress.

UberConference: There are many distance-learning programs on the market, but few allow you to hold a conference or talk to a large group of people at one time. For projects that involve several people at once, UberConference can be a very valuable resource. The goal of this product is to provide stress-free conference calls so that you can focus on what you are learning, rather than spending your time trying to find an effective way to communicate with others. The rich interface of UberConference makes it easier to mute a noisy caller when necessary, and you can dial another person in - even in the middle of a call. This software is also very easy to use, and is compatible with a number of phones, from smart phones to flip phones to land lines.

A headset: In today's fast-paced society, a headset can seem like a rudimentary and even dated tool; however, its benefits should not be overlooked. A headset may be quite inexpensive, but it can go a long way when it comes to e-learning. For example, headsets allow users to block out background noises and distractions easily. The end result is that the e-learner is more focused on the task at hand. It is much easier to focus on online videos and discussions with a headset. Another advantage of headsets is that some are equipped with built-in microphones, allowing easier and more efficient communication throughout an assignment.

Blackboard: When you think of a traditional classroom space, a blackboard with the accompanying notes and diagrams in chalk may come to mind. This aptly titled software enables teachers to place discussion notes, diagrams, and more in one convenient place, ensuring that students have virtually everything they need for the class. In addition, it is a great place for students and teachers to connect, collaborate, and interact with one another. Blackboard provides a place for students to participate in lessons and communicate in various ways.

A blog: As with the headset, this may seem like a very basic tool. However, a blog can be a great asset for students around the world. That's because blogs act as journals and are a good way for students to make note of their progress, and for their teachers to follow along. Unlike some other programs that may have compatibility issues with the computer being used, it's quite easy to start a blog. In most cases, you simply need a stable and reliable Internet connection, as well as access to a blogging website. Some of the most popular blogging websites include WordPress, Tumblr, and Blogger. These sites make it fun and easy to set up a blog and keep it going, even as coursework picks up. Many sites also allow visitors to leave comments, which tend to encourage interaction while learning.

Modern technology makes it easier than ever to learn in the comfort of your own home, or to participate in programmes that are too far away for travel. From personal use to business, e-learning helps to connect people from all over the world. In many instances, you just need a reliable Internet connection and a relatively quiet place to work before you begin. These five tools make it easier to take your e-learning seriously and get the most out of your distance-learning experience.

Peter Davidson

About Peter Davidson

Peter Davidson is a business analyst who loves to share entrepreneurship and marketing secrets with the world. Overcoming business challenges is his passion and he aspires to reach at the highest rung of this field.