What are Different Types of Digital Learning Technology
Within the delivery of digital learning there are many different supporting technologies, with continual development expanding the delivery options. For example, nearly twice as many technologies are reportedly used today compared with ten years ago.
Types of digital learning technology include:
virtual learning environments, such as webinars, online classrooms and chat tools
online learning communities/social networks/social media applications/collaboration platforms/tools that facilitate interaction between learners and that support collaborative approaches to learning
smartphone technology/mobile apps, which are a fast-growing form of delivery utilising common mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and so on, and promoting the ‘learner anytime, anywhere’ potential
video and audio content, for example YouTube/podcasts and self-authoring tools such as blogs and wikis (online audio or writing tools)
learning management systems (LMS) and learning experience platforms (LXP), which integrate various learning technologies and content onto one platform; in recent years, cloud-based platforms have also significantly grown in popularity
curated content through social bookmarking, mashups and digital storytelling (methods of storing, tagging and sharing online resources)
online course/resource platform, including massive open online course platforms, offering free university-level online courses and open educational resources platforms, which offer free, open-licensed digital teaching and learning resources online
The more emergent forms of digital learning technology also include:
game-based learning, which applies game concepts to learning and development and forms part of the contemporary shift towards more personalised learning, with the aim to make learning more engaging and create a safe environment for learners to test skills and build competence
artificial intelligence and machine-based learning to support personalisation and analytics
extended reality immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR)
On-demand one-on-one learning platform and one-on-one coaching platform
Companies should choose the right learning technology based on internal learning philosophy and strategy. Set clear objectives and success criteria for digital learning, and regularly evaluate its impact and effectiveness and modify its use accordingly.
About the Author
Salina is passionate in talent development. She works as a career development coach and leadership training facilitator. Recently, she is passionately driving digital learning transformation. She has over 20 years of solid experience in learning and development, organization development, talent management and leadership development. She is also experienced in building organization culture, leading change management & re-organization projects, talent acquisition, developing competencies framework, performance management and succession planning. Salina holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration, a Master in Science, Training & Human Resource Management and a Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree. She has also attained Executive Coaching Accreditation (ICF Professional Certified Coach) & Certified Team Coach.