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e-learning glossary
eLearning Glossary
Compiled by the meg@ELT Team
Everyone has something to say about e-learning, but are we communicating in
the same language? Below you'll find a collection of terms and their
definitions to help you "speak" e-learning.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
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A
Accessibility: A
characteristic of technology that enables people with disabilities to use
it. For example, accessible Websites can be navigated by people with visual,
hearing, motor, or cognitive impairments. Accessible design also benefits
people with older or slower software and hardware.
ADL (Advanced Distributed
Learning):
Initiative by the U.S. Department of Defense to achieve interoperability
across computer and Internet-based learning courseware through the
development of a common technical framework, which contains content in the
form of reusable learning objects.
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line): A type of
DSL that uses the majority of the bandwidth to transmit
information to the user and a small part of the bandwidth to receive
information from the user.
AICC (Aviation
Industry Computer-Based Training Committee):
An international association of technology-based training professionals that
develops training guidelines for the aviation industry. AICC has and is
developing standards for interoperability of computer-based and
computer-managed training products across multiple industries.
Amplitude: The amount of variety in a signal. Commonly thought of as the
height of a wave.
Analog:
A signal that's received in the same form in which it is transmitted,
although the amplitude and frequency may vary.
AoD
(audio on demand):
See COD.
API
(application program interface): The set of tools used by a programmer to create a computer
program.
Applet:
A small application.
Application: Computer software; also called a program. There are many
types of software that fit into the category of application. Application
software is distinct from other forms of software, such as operating system
and utility software.
ASCII (American Standard
Code for Information Interexchange):
A computer code in which characters such as letters and symbols are
converted into numbers that the computer can understand.
ASP
(Active Server Pages):
A programming environment that combines elements of HTML and scripting.
Webpages built with ASP can change dynamically based on user input.
ASP (application service
provider): A
third-party organization that supplies software applications and/or
software-related services over the Internet. ASPs allow companies to save
money, time, and resources by outsourcing some or all of their information
technology needs.
Assessment: The process used to systematically evaluate a learner's skill or
knowledge level.
Assessment item:
A question or measurable activity used to determine whether the learner has
mastered a learning objective.
Asset: 1)
Intellectual property. 2) Hardware and software owned by an organization.
Asynchronous learning:
Learning in which interaction between instructors and students occurs
intermittently with a time delay. Examples are self-paced courses taken via
the Internet or CD-ROM, Q&A mentoring, online discussion groups, and email.
ATM (asynchronous transfer
mode): A
network technology for high-speed transfer of data. Packets of information
are relayed in fixed sizes, enabling smooth transmission. ATM supports
real-time voice and video as well as data and can reach speeds of up to 10
Gbps.
Audio bridge:
A device used in audioconferencing that connects multiple telephone lines.
Audioconferencing: Voice-only connection of more than two sites using standard
telephone lines.
Audiographics: Computer-based technology that enables simultaneous transmission
of voice, data, and graphic images across local telephone lines for
instructor-learner interaction.
Authoring tool:
A software application or program used by trainers and instructional
designers to create e-learning courseware. Types of authoring tools include
instructionally focused authoring tools, Web authoring and programming
tools, template-focused authoring tools, knowledge capture systems, and text
and file creation tools.
Avatar: In online
environments, a virtual digital image representing a person. In e-learning
avatars usually represent the learners. The term comes from a Sanskrit word
meaning an incarnation in human form.
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B
Backbone: A primary communication path connecting multiple users.
Band:
A range of frequencies between defined upper and lower limits.
Bandwidth: The nformation carrying capacity of a communication channel.
Baud: A measure of data transmission speed. At low speeds, baud is
equal to the bits transmitted per second (bps). At higher speeds, one baud
can represent more than one bit.
BBS
(bulletin board system):
An online community run on a
host computer that users can dial or log into in order to post messages on
public discussion boards, send and receive email, chat with other users, and
upload and download files. BBSs are text-based and often related to the
specific hobbies or interests of their creators.
Binary code:
A coding system made up of numbers expressed in base-2 notation, using only
the digits 0 and 1.
Bit:
The most basic unit of
information on a computer. In accordance with binary code, each bit is
designated as either a 1 or a 0; all other information stored on the
computer is composed of combinations of bits.
Blended learning:
Learning events that
combine aspects of online and face-to-face instruction.
Blog
(Weblog): An
extension of the personal Website consisting of regular journal-like entries
posted on a Webpage for public viewing. Blogs usually contain links to other
Websites along with the thoughts, comments, and personality of the blog's
creator.
Bluetooth: A
wireless networking technology using radio waves that enables users to send
data and voice signals between electronic devices over short distances.
Bookmark: A
Webpage link stored in a browser for quick and easy retrieval.
Bps (bits per second):
A measurement of data transmission speed in a communications system; the
number of bits transmitted or received each second.
Bridge:
A device linking two or more
sections of a network.
Broadband:
1) In layperson's terms, high speed transmission of data. In this
use, the specific speed that defines broadband is subjective; the word often
implies any speed above what is commonly used at the time. 2) In technical
terms, transmission over a network in which more than one signal is carried
at a time. Broadband technology can transmit data, audio, and video all at
once over long distances.
Broadcast: (noun) Television or radio signals designed to reach a mass
audience. (Some Websites offer original or redistributed broadcasts)
(verb) 1) To transmit television or radio signals. 2) To email or fax a
message to multiple recipients simultaneously; to transmit information
simultaneously to everyone on a network.
Browser: A software application that displays World Wide Web pages
originally written in the text-based HTML language in a user-friendly
graphical format.
Business requirements:
The conditions an e-learning
solution should meet to align with the needs of such stakeholders as the
content developer, subject matter expert, learner, manager, and training
administrator.
Byte:
A combination of 8 bits.
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C
Cable modem: A modem that uses cable television's coaxial cables to transmit
data at faster speeds than modems using telephone lines.
CAI (computer-assisted
instruction):
The use of a computer as a medium of instruction for tutorial, drill and
practice, simulation, or games. CAI is used for both initial and remedial
training, and typically does not require that a computer be connected to a
network or provide links to learning resources outside of the course.
Case
study: A scenario
used to illustrate the application of a learning concept. May be either
factual or hypothetical.
CBL
(computer-based learning):
See CBT.
CBT (computer-based
training): An
umbrella term for the use of computers in both instruction and management of
the teaching and learning process. CAI (computer-assisted instruction) and
CMI (computer-managed instruction) are included under the heading of CBT.
Some people use the terms CBT and CAI interchangeably.
CD-ROM (compact disc
read-only memory
or compact disc read-only
media): A computer storage medium similar to the audio CD that can hold
more than 600 megabytes of read-only digital information.
Certification: 1) The awarding of a credential acknowledging that an individual
has demonstrated proof of a minimum level of knowledge or competence, as
defined by a professional standards organization. Professional certification
can be used as a screening tool and verification of an individual's skills
and knowledge.
2) Program that evaluates products or tools according to predetermined
criteria.
Chat: Real-time text-based communication in a virtual environment.
Chat can be used in e-learning for student questions, instructor feedback,
or even group discussion.
Chat room: A
virtual meeting space on the Internet, an intranet, or other network, used
for real-time text discussions. Unlike one-to-one instant messenger
applications, chat rooms enable conversations among multiple people at once.
Chunk:
(noun) A discrete portion of
content, often consisting of several learning objects grouped together.
(verb) To separate content into discrete portions or aggregate smaller
content elements into customized configurations.
CLO
(Chief Learning Officer):
The executive with primary
responsibility for strategic human capital development. The CLO ensures that
all learning investments focus on accomplishing the organization's mission,
strategy, and goals; provides a single point of accountability for those
investments; develops the corporate learning strategy; creates a culture of
continuous learning; fosters communities of practice; integrates training
functions; drives cultural transformation; and measures the impact on
organizational performance. The CLO increasingly reports to either the CEO
or senior vice president of HR. He or she is to learning what the CFO and
CIO are to finance and information technology.
C-learning: See instructor-led training.
CMI
(computer-managed instruction):
The use of computer technology to oversee the learning process,
including testing and record keeping.
CMS (content management
system): A
centralized software application or set of applications that facilitates and
streamlines the process of designing, testing, approving, and posting
e-learning content, usually on Webpages.
Coaching:.A
process in which a more experienced person, the coach, provides a worker or
workers with constructive advice and feedback with the goal of improving
performance. (See also mentoring, which focuses on career development and
advancement)
CoD
(Content on demand):
Delivery of an offering,
packaged in a media format, anywhere, anytime via a network. Variants
include audio on demand (AoD) and video on demand (VoD).
Codec (coder/decoder):
Device used to convert analog signals to digital signals for transmission,
and to reconvert signals upon reception at the remote site, while allowing
for the signal to be compressed for less expensive transmission.
Collaboration technology:
Software,
platforms, or services that enable people at different locations to
communicate and work with each other in a secure, self-contained
environment. May include capabilities for document management, application
sharing, presentation development and delivery, whiteboarding, chat, and
more.
Common carrier:
A government-regulated private company that furnishes the public with
telecommunications services (for example, phone companies).
Community: See online community.
Competency management:
A system used
to evaluate skills, knowledge, and performance within an organization; spot
gaps; and introduce training, compensation, and recruiting programs based on
current or future needs.
Compliant (standards-compliant):
E-learning that meets
established standards of, and has received official approval from, an
accrediting organization.
Compressed file:
A computer file that has been reduced in size by a compression software
program. The user must decompress these files before they can be viewed or
used.
Compressed video:
Video signals downsized to allow travel along a smaller carrier.
Conformant (standards-conformant):
E-learning that meets the
standards of an accrediting organization but that has not gone through the
formal application process to be deemed compliant.
Connect time:
The amount of time that a terminal or computer has been logged on to a
computer or server for a particular session.
Content: Information captured digitally and imparted to learners. Formats
for e-learning content include text, audio, video, animation, simulation,
and more.
Convergence: A
result of the digital era in which various types of digital information,
such as text, audio, and video, and their delivery mechanisms--television,
telecommunications, and consumer electronics--are combined together in new
integrated forms. WebTV is an example of convergence between televisions and
computer technology.
Cookie: Information stored on a user's computer after he or she visits a
Website. The cookie tracks data about that user but can be disabled in the
browser.
Corporate university:
A learning organization with
a governance system that aligns all learning with the corporate or agency
mission, strategy, and goals. The governance system typically includes a
governing board consisting of the CEO and other senior executives and a
chief learning officer (CLO) who has overall responsibility for managing the
organization's investment in learning. CEOs of best-practice learning
organizations leverage their corporate university to achieve performance
goals, drive cultural transformation, reform and integrate training
departments, and establish and sustain competitive advantage through
learning.
Courseware: Any type of instructional or educational course delivered via a
software program or over the Internet.
CPU (central processing
unit): The
part of the computer that contains the microprocessor, power supply, hard
drive, and disk drives.
CRM
(customer relationship management): Methodologies, software, and Internet capabilities that help a
company identify and categorize customers and manage relationships with
them.
CSS
(cascading style sheets): An HTML feature that enables Webpage developers and users to
specify the way a Webpage appears when displayed in a browser, by applying a
number of different style sheets to the page. Each style sheet controls a
different design element or set of design elements.
Customer-focused e-learning:
Technology-based learning programs offered by a company and targeted at
their current and prospective customers. The intent is to increase brand
loyalty among existing customers and attract new business
Cyberspace: The nebulous "place" where humans interact over computer
networks; term coined by William Gibson in Neuromancer.
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D
De facto standard:
An e-learning
specification that hasn't been officially established by an accrediting
agency but that is accepted and used as a standard by a majority of
practitioners.
Default: A setting that the computer system uses automatically, unless it
is changed by the user.
Delivery:
Any method of transferring
content to learners, including instructor-led training, Web-based training,
CD-ROM, books, and more.
Desktop videoconferencing:
Videoconferencing on a personal computer.
Development: 1)
Learning or other types of activities that prepare a person for additional
job responsibilities and/or enable him to gain knowledge or skills. 2) The
creation of training materials or courses, as in content development
or e-learning development.
Dial up: To open a connection between a user's computer and another
computer via a modem.
Digital: An electrical signal that varies in discrete steps in voltage,
frequency, amplitude, locations, and so forth. Digital signals can be
transmitted faster and more accurately than analog signals.
Digital Divide:
The gap that exists between those who can afford technology and those who
cannot.
Discussion boards:
Forums on the
Internet or an intranet where users can post messages for others to read.
Disc/Disk: See
floppy disk or CD-ROM.
Disk drive:
The part of a computer that reads and writes data onto either
floppy disk, a hard disk, or an optical disk (CD, CD-ROM, DVD, DVD-ROM,WORM,
and so forth).
Distance education:
Educational situation in which the instructor and students are separated by
time, location, or both. Education or training courses are delivered to
remote locations via synchronous or asynchronous means of instruction,
including written correspondence, text, graphics, audio- and videotape,
CD-ROM, online learning, audio- and videoconferencing, interactive TV, and
FAX. Distance education does not preclude the use of the traditional
classroom. The definition of distance education is broader than and entails
the definition of e-learning.
Distance learning:
The desired outcome of distance education. The two terms are often used
interchangeably.
Download: (noun) A file that's transferred or copied to a user's computer
from another connected individual computer, a computer network, a commercial
online service, or the Internet. (verb) To transfer or copy a file to a
user's computer from another connected individual computer, a computer
network, a commercial online service, or the Internet.
DS (Digital Signal):
The rate and format
of a digital signal, for example, DS-1 or DS-3. Often used synonymously with
T, as in T1 or T3, although the T technically refers to the
type of equipment.
DSL
(digital subscriber line):
A broadband Internet access method that sends data over standard phone lines
at speeds up to 7 Mbps. DSL is available to subscribers who live within a
certain distance of the necessary router.
DVD (digital versatile
disc):
Optical disks that are the same size as CDs but are double-sided and have
larger storage capacities.
DVI (digital video
interactive):
A format for recording digital video onto compact disk, allowing for
compression and full-motion video.
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E
Echo cancellation:
The process of eliminating the acoustic echo in a videoconferencing room.
E-learning (electronic
learning):
Term covering a wide set of applications and processes, such as Web-based
learning, computer-based learning, virtual classrooms, and digital
collaboration. It includes the delivery of content via Internet,
intranet/extranet (LAN/WAN), audio- and videotape, satellite broadcast,
interactive TV, CD-ROM, and more.
Email (electronic mail):
Messages sent from one computer user to another.
Email list: A
form of one-to-many communication using email; a software program for
automating mailing lists and discussion groups on a computer network.
End-to-end solution:
A marketing term used by large e-learning suppliers; meant to imply that
their products and services will handle all aspects of e-learning.
End
user: The person
for whom a particular technology is designed; the individual who uses the
technology for its designated purpose. In e-learning, the end user is
usually the student.
Enterprise-wide e-learning:
E-learning that's intended for all or most employees within a company. It's
often part of a strategic change of direction with a very short timeline,
but is also used to support a core process such as sales.
EPSS
(electronic performance support system):
1) A computer application that's linked directly to
another application to train or guide workers through completing a task in
the target application. 2) More generally, a computer or other device that
gives workers information or resources to help them accomplish a task or
achieve performance requirements.
Ergonomics: Design principles relating to the comfort, efficiency, and
safety of users.
ERP
(enterprise resource planning): A set of activities supported by application software that
helps a company manage such core parts of its business as product planning,
parts purchasing, inventory management, order tracking, and customer
service. Can also include modules for finance and HR activities. The
deployment of an ERP system can involve considerable business process
analysis, employee retraining, and new work procedures.
Ethernet: A type of local area network, originally developed at Xerox, in
which computers communicate through radio frequency signals sent over
coaxial cable.
E-training: See TBT.
Evaluation:
Any systematic method for
gathering information about the impact and effectiveness of a learning
offering. Results of the measurements can be used to improve the offering,
determine whether the learning objectives have been achieved, and assess the
value of the offering to the organization.
Extensibility:
The ability to expand and adapt an e-learning application or infrastructure
by adding features, components, or services to a core set of capabilities.
Extranet: A local-area network (LAN) or wide-area network (WAN) using
TCP/IP, HTML, SMTP, and other open Internet-based standards to transport
information. An extranet is only available to people inside and certain
people outside an organization, as determined by the organization.
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F
F2F (face-to-face):
Term used to describe the traditional classroom environment. Also see ILT.
Facilitative tools:
Electronic features used to deliver online courses. Examples include mailing
lists, chat programs, streaming audio, streaming video, and Webpages.
Facilitator: The online course instructor who aids learning in the online,
student-centered environment.
False-starter: A
person who registers for but does not complete an e-learning course.
FAQ (frequently asked
questions):
An informational list, in question and answer format, of common inquiries
from users about a topic or application and standard responses. FAQs appear
on Websites and discussion boards and within desktop applications.
Fax (facsimile): (noun) The print-out of information transmitted via text and/or
graphic images over standard telephone lines. (verb) To transmit information
via text and/or graphic images over standard telephone lines.
Feedback:
Communication between the instructor or system and the learner
resulting from an action or process.
Fiber-optic cable:
Glass fiber used for
laser transmission of video, audio, and/or data. Fiber-optic cable has a
much greater bandwidth capacity than conventional cable or copper wire.
File server:
A computer on a network with the primary task of storing files that can be
shared by network users.
Firewall: A technology that gives users access to the Internet while
retaining internal network security.
FireWire: Apple
Computer's trademarked name for its high-speed serial bus supporting the
IEEE 1394 data transfer standard. FireWire enables the connection of up to
63 devices and transfers data at a speed of up to 400 mbps.
Flash:
Software by Macromedia that enables designers to use simple vector graphics
to create computer animations, which can be viewed by any browser with the
correct plug-in.
Floppy disk (floppy diskette):
A data storage medium used
with a personal computer. Current floppy disks can store up to 1.44 MB of
data and are usually 3 1/2 inches in size. Older floppy disks were 5 and ¼
inches. Also spelled as floppy disc.
Footprint: 1) The regions to which a communications satellite can transmit.
2) The floor or desk surface space occupied by a piece of computer
equipment.
Frequency: The space between waves in a signal; the amount of time between
waves passing a stationary point.
FTP (File Transfer
Protocol): A
protocol that enables a user to move files from a distant computer to a
local computer using a network like the Internet.
Full-motion video:
A signal that allows the transmission of the complete action taking place at
the origination site.
Fully interactive video
(two-way interactive video): Two sites interacting with audio and video as if they were
co-located.
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G
GB (gigabyte):
Just over one billion
bytes. 1,000 megabytes.
GIF (Graphics Interchange
Format): The
ile format developed by CompuServe to store images. GIFs support 256 colors
and are often used for Web images because they compress well.
Globalization: 1)
The tailoring of an offering to include clear, grammatically correct text
that eliminates slang, gender references, and cultural or generational
idioms. 2) The process of deploying a single system worldwide that meets a
variety of needs. 3) Integrating several working systems into one.
Granularity: The
degree of detail something can be broken down into, or the number of
discrete components making up any type of system. In e-learning, granularity
is defined by the number of content chunks.
Grok:
To reach total understanding of a subject. From Robert Heinlein's
Stranger in a Strange Land.
GUI (graphical user
interface):
A
computer interface using icons or pictures. For example, Windows.
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H
Hard disk:
A computer’s main
data storage component, usually housed within the CPU. Hard disks generally
hold more data and can be read faster than
floppy disks.
Hard
drive: A disk
drive that reads a computer’s hard disk.
Hard
skills: Technical
skills.
HDTV (high-definition TV):
A television signal that has over five times the resolution of standard
television and requires extraordinary bandwidth.
Homepage: A document that has an address (URL) on the World Wide Web, is
maintained by a person or an organization, and contains pointers to other
pieces of information.
Host: (noun) A computer connected to a network. (verb) To store and
manage another company's technology and/or content on your own servers.
HRD
(human resource development):
1) A term coined by Leonard Nadler to describe the organized learning
experiences, such as training, education, and development, offered by
employers within a specific timeframe to improve employee performance or
personal growth. 2) Another name for the field and profession sometimes
called training or training and development.
HTML (Hypertext Markup
Language):
The programming language used to create documents for display on the World
Wide Web.
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer
Protocol):
The set of rules and standards that govern how information is transmitted on
the World Wide Web.
Hub: A network device that connects communication lines together.
Hypermedia: Applications or documents that contain dynamic links to other
media, such as audio, video, or graphics files.
Hypertext:
A system for retrieving
information from servers on the Internet using World Wide Web client
software. Hypertext consists of key words or phrases in a WWW page that are
linked electronically to other Webpages.
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I
ILS (integrated learning
system): A
complete software, hardware, and network system used for instruction. In
addition to providing curriculum and lessons organized by level, an ILS
usually includes a number of tools such as assessments, record keeping,
report writing, and user information files that help to identify learning
needs, monitor progress, and maintain student records.
ILT (instructor-led
training):
Usually refers to traditional classroom training, in which an instructor
teaches a course to a room of learners. The term is used synonymously with
on-site training and classroom training (c-learning).
IMS
(Instructional Management System) Global Learning Consortium:
Coalition of government
organizations dedicated to defining and distributing open architecture
interoperability specifications for e-learning products.
Information architecture:
A description or design specification for how information should be treated
and organized. In Web design, the term describes the the organization of
online content into categories and the creation of an interface for
displaying those categories.
Infrastructure: The underlying mechanism or framework of a system. In
e-learning, the infrastructure includes the means by which voice, video, and
data can be transferred from one site to another and be processed.
Instant messenger (IM):
Software that lists users' selected "buddies" (friends, family, co-workers,
and so forth) who are online and enables users to send short text messages
back and forth to them. Some instant messenger programs also include voice
chat, file transfer, and other applications.
Instructional designer (ID):
An individual
who applies a systematic methodology based on instructional theory to create
content for learning.
Integration:
Combining hardware, software (and, in e-learning, content) components
together to work as an interoperable system. The process of integration may
also include front-end planning and strategy.
Intellectual property:
An idea, invention, formula, literary work, presentation, or other knowledge
asset owned by an organization or individual. Intellectual property can be
protected by patents, trademarks, service marks, and/or copyrights.
Interactive media:
Allows for a two-way interaction or exchange of information.
Internet: An international network first used to connect education and
research networks, begun by the US government. The Internet
now provides communication and application services to an international base
of businesses, consumers, educational institutions, governments, and
research organizations.
Internet-based training:
Training delivered primarily by TCP/IP network technologies such as email,
newsgroups, proprietary applications, and so forth. Although the term is
often used synonymously with Web-based training, Internet-based training is
not necessarily delivered over the World Wide Web, and may not use the HTTP
and HTML technologies that make Web-based training possible.
Internet Explorer:
Browser software that enables users to view Webpages.
Interoperability: The ability of hardware or software components to work together
effectively.
Intranet: A LAN or WAN that's owned by a company and is only accessible to
people working internally. It is protected from outside intrusion by a
combination of firewalls and other security measures.
IP (Internet Protocol):
The international standard for addressing and sending data via the Internet.
IP multicast:
Using the Internet
Protocol, delivery of a learning event over a network from a single source
to multiple participants.
ISDN (Integrated Services
Digital Network):
A telecommunications standard enabling communications channels to carry
voice, video, and data simultaneously.
ISO (International
Organization for Standardization):
An international federation of national standards bodies.
ISP
(Internet service provider):
A hosting company that provides end user access to such Internet services as
email, the World Wide Web, FTP, newsgroups, and so forth.
IT (information technology):
The industry or discipline involving the collection, dissemination, and
management of data, typically through the use of computers.
ITFS (Instructional Television Fixed Service):
Microwave-based, high-frequency television used in educational program
delivery.
IT
training: A
combination of desktop training and information systems and technical
training. Includes training in areas such as system infrastructure software,
application software, and application development tools.
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J
Java:
An object-oriented programming language developed by Sun
Microsystems. Java isn't dependent on specific hardware and can be launched
from within an HTML document or stand- alone.
Java applet:
A small Java program
launched through a browser.
JavaScript: A scripting language that's simpler than Java and can add
interactivity to Webpages. JavaScript commands allow tasks to be completed
by the Web browser when a user views a Webpage. (For example, making a
graphic change when a user moves the cursor over it.)
JDBC (Java Database
Connectivity):
An application program
interface used to connect programs written in Java to the data in databases.
Job aid:
Any simple tool that helps a
worker do his or her job (for example, a flow chart to follow when answering
a customer service call). Job aids generally provide quick reference
information rather than in-depth training.
JPEG (Joint Photographic
Experts Group):
1) A format for image compression that enables the user to weigh image
quality against file size. JPEG is a lossy compression method, meaning that
when the image is compressed, the file is made smaller by discarding some of
its information. The more the file is compressed, the more information is
discarded, and the more the image quality is degraded. 2) The subgroup of
the International Organization for Standardization responsible for setting
the standards for the image file format that bears its name.
Just-in-time:
Characteristic of e-learning in which learners are able to access the
information they need exactly when they need it.
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K
KB (kilobyte):
1,024 bytes.
Kbps (Kilobits per second):
Measurement
of data transmission speed in a communication system. The number of kilobits
transmitted or received each second.
KMS
(knowledge management system): See knowledge management.
Knowledge asset:
Intellectual content possessed by an organization. Any piece of information
that a worker at a company knows, from customer names to how to fix a piece
of machinery, can be considered a knowledge asset. Assets can be codified in
a variety of formats, such as PowerPoint slides, Word documents, audio and
video files, and so forth.
Knowledge base: A
specialized database that stores knowledge assets.
Knowledge management:
The process of capturing, organizing, and storing information and
experiences of workers and groups within an organization and making it
available to others. By collecting those artifacts in a central or
distributed electronic environment (often in a database called a knowledge
base), KM aims to help a company gain competitive advantage.
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L
LAN (local-area network):
A group of personal computers and/or other devices, such as printers or
servers, that are located in a relatively limited area, such as an office,
and can communicate and share information with each other.
LCMS
(learning content management system):
A software application (or set of applications) that manages the
creation, storage, use, and reuse of learning content. LCMSs often store
content in granular forms such as learning objects.
Learning: A
cognitive and/or physical process in which a person assimilates information
and temporarily or permanently acquires or improves skills, knowledge,
behaviors, and/or attitudes.
Learning environment:
The physical or
virtual setting in which learning takes place.
Learning object:
A reusable,
media-independent collection of information used as a modular building block
for e-learning content. Learning objects are most effective when organized
by a meta data classification system and stored in a data repository such as
an LCMS.
Learning objective:
A statement
establishing a measurable behavioral outcome, used as an advanced organizer
to indicate how the learner's acquisition of skills and knowledge is being
measured.
Learning platforms:
Internal or external sites often organized around tightly focused topics,
which contain technologies (ranging from chat rooms to groupware) that
enable users to submit and retrieve information.
Learning portal:
Any Website that offers learners or organizations consolidated access to
learning and training resources from multiple sources. Operators of learning
portals are also called content aggregators, distributors, or hosts.
Learning solution:
1) Any combination of
technology and methodology that delivers learning. 2) Software and/or
hardware products that suppliers tout as answers to businesses' training
needs.
Learning space:
An imaginary geography in which the learning enterprise flourishes. Mapped
by market analysts and mined by consultants, this territory is a recent
annexation to the business landscape.
Link: The result of HTML markup signifying to a browser that data
within a document will automatically connect with either nested data or an
outside source. Used in the design of hypertext.
LISTSERV: Email list management software developed by L-Soft International.
LMS
(learning management system):
Software that automates the administration of training. The LMS registers
users, tracks courses in a catalog, records data from learners; and provides
reports to management. An LMS is typically designed to handle courses by
multiple publishers and providers. It usually doesn't include its own
authoring capabilities; instead, it focuses on managing courses created by a
variety of other sources.
Localization:
The tailoring of an
offering to meet the specific needs of a geographic area, product, or target
audience.
Log in/Log on: To establish a connection over a network or modem with a remote
computer to retrieve or exchange information.
Log off: To terminate a connection to a computer or network.
LRN:
Microsoft's Learning Resource Interchange, a format that gives
content creators a standard way to identify, share, update, and create
online content and courseware. LRN is the first commercial application of
the IMS Content Packaging Specification.
LSP
(learning service provider): A specialized ASP offering learning management and training
delivery software on a hosted or rental basis.
Lurking: Reading the postings in a discussion forum or on a listserv but
not contributing to the discussion.
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M
M-learning (mobile learning):
Learning that takes place via such wireless devices as cell phones, personal
digital assistants (PDAs), or laptop computers.
Markup: Text or codes added to a document to convey information about
it. Usually used to formulate a document's layout or create links to other
documents or information servers. HTML is a common form of markup.
MB (megabyte):
1,048,576 bytes, often generically applied to 1,000,000 bytes as well.
Mbps (megabits per second):
A measurement of data transmission speed in a communication system; the
number of megabits transmitted or received each second.
Mentoring: A
career development process in which less experienced workers are matched
with more experienced colleagues for guidance. Mentoring can occur either
through formal programs or informally as required and may be delivered
in-person or by using various media.
Metadata:
Information about content that enables it to be stored in and retrieved from
a database.
Metatag: An HTML
tag identifying the contents of a Website. Information commonly found in the
metatag includes copyright info, key words for search engines, and
formatting descriptions of the page.
Microwave: Electromagnetic waves that travel in a straight line and are
used to and from satellites and for short distances up to 30 miles.
Modem: A device that enables computers to interact with each other via
telephone lines by converting digital signals to analog for transmitting and
back to digital for receiving.
Modular:
E-learning that's made up of
standardized units that can be separated from each other and rearranged or
reused.
MOO
(MUD, object oriented):
A MUD created with an
object-oriented programming language.
MPEG (Moving Picture Experts
Group): 1) A
high-quality video file format that uses compression to keep file sizes
relatively small. 2) The subgroup of the International Organization for
Standardization responsible for setting the standards for this format.
MP3: A format for music file compression that enables users to
download music over the Internet.
MUD
(multi-user dimension or multi-user domain):
A simulated virtual world in which users interact with
each other, often by taking on character identities called avatars.
Originally created for game-playing, MUDs are growing in popularity for
online learning and virtual community-building.
Multicasting: The
transmission of information to more than one recipient. For example, sending
an email message to a list of people. Teleconferencing and videoconferencing
can also use multicasting.
Multimedia:
Encompasses interactive text, images, sound, and color. Multimedia can be
anything from a simple PowerPoint slide slow to a complex interactive
simulation.
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N
Narrowband:
1) In data transmission, a
limited range of frequencies. 2) More specifically, a network in which data
transmission speeds range from 50 Bps to 64 Kbps.
Navigation:
1) Moving from Webpage to Webpage on the World Wide Web. 2) Moving through
the pages of an online site that may not be part of the WWW, including an
intranet site or an online course.
Nesting: Placing documents within other documents. Allows a user to
access material in a nonlinear fashion, the primary requirement for
developing hypertext.
Net:
Common nickname for the Internet.
Netiquette: Online manners. The rules of conduct for online or Internet
users.
Netscape Navigator:
Browser software that enables users to view Webpages.
Network: Two or more computers that are connected so users can share
files and devices (for example, printers, servers, and storage devices).
Newsgroup: An
online discussion hosted on the Usenet network. Sometimes also called a
forum.
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O
Object-oriented programming:
A type of computer
programming that allows programmers to define the following as objects: data
types, data structures, and the functions or operations that are to be
applied to the objects. Object-oriented programming languages include Java,
Smalltalk, and C++.
ODBC (Open Database
Connectivity):
An application program
interface to access information from numerous types of databases, including
Access, dbase, DB2, and so forth.
Online:
The state in which a computer is connected to another computer or server via
a network. A computer communicating with another computer.
Online community:
A meeting place on the Internet for people who share common interests and
needs. Online communities can be open to all or be by membership only and
may or may not be moderated.
Online learning:
Learning delivered by Web-based or Internet-based technologies. See Web-based
training and Internet-based training.
Online training:
Web- or Internet-based training.
Open source software:
1) Generally, software for which the original program instructions, the
source code, is made available so that users can access, modify, and
redistribute it. The Linux operating system is an example of open source
software. 2) Software that meets each of nine requirements listed by the
non-profit Open Source Initiative in its Open Source Definition.
Origination site:
The location from which a teleconference originates.
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P
Packet:
A bundle of data transmitted over a network. Packets have no set size; they
can range from one character to hundreds of characters.
Page
turner: A
derogatory term for e-learning that offers little to no graphics or
interaction, instead comprising mainly pages of text.
PDA (personal digital
assistant):
Handheld computer device used to organize personal information such as
contacts, schedules, and so forth. Data can usually be transferred to a
desktop computer by cable or wireless transmission.
PDF
(portable document format):
File format developed by
Adobe Systems to enable users of any hardware or software platform to view
documents exactly as they were created--with fonts, images, links, and
layouts as they were originally designed.
Peer-to-peer network (P2P):
A communications network that enables users to connect their computers and
share files directly with other users, without having to go through a
centralized server. Groove is an example of an application that runs
on a peer-to-peer network.
Personalization:
Tailoring Web content to an individual user. Can be accomplished by a user
entering preferences or by a computer guessing about the user's preferences.
Pixel (Picture Element):
Tiny dots that make up a
computer image. The more pixels a computer monitor can display, the better
the image resolution and quality. On a color monitor, every pixel is
composed of a red, a green, and a blue dot that are small enough to appear
as a single entity.
Plug-and-play:
The ability of a personal computer's operating system to recognize and
install-- with little to no intervention by the user--new peripheral devices
that are added to the computer. Also spelled plug-n-play or plug 'n' play.
Plugfest: A
biannual event sponsored by the Advanced Distributed Learning Network
that brings together early adopters of the SCORM specifications
to validate and document their process in meeting requirements for reuse,
adaptability, interoperability, cost-effectiveness, and global access.
Plug-in:
An accessory program that
adds capabilities to the main program. Used on Webpages to display
multimedia content.
PNG
(Portable Network Graphics):
The patent-free graphics
compression format developed by Macromedia expected to replace GIF. PNG
offers advanced graphics features such as 48-bit color.
Point-to-multipoint: Transmission between multiple locations using a bridge.
Point-to-point: Transmission between two locations.
POP (Post Office Protocol):
The set of
rules and standards that govern the retrieval of email messages from a mail
server.
Portal:
A Website that acts as a doorway to the Internet or a portion of the
Internet, targeted towards one particular subject. Also see learning portal.
Post:
To place a message in a
public message forum. Also, to place an HTML page on the World Wide Web.
Power users:
Advanced, sophisticated users of technology (usually a computer application
or an operating system) who know more than just the basics needed to operate
it.
PPP:
A software package that enables a user to connect directly to the Internet
over a telephone line.
Practice item:
1) A question or
learning activity that serves as an informal validation and reinforcement of
instruction. 2) A sample question that precedes a test, designed to ensure
that the learner understands the mechanics of the testing system.
Practices:
A set of methods or procedures to be followed, as in best
practices or standard practices. In e-learning, the methods used
to communicate the content to the learner.
Prescriptive learning:
A process in which only coursework that matches a learner's identified skill
and knowledge gaps is offered to him or her, with the goal of making the
learning experience more meaningful, efficient, and cost-effective.
Program: See
application.
Projection system:
A device for showing video, television, or computer images on a large
screen.
Protocol: A formal set of standards, rules, or formats for exchanging data
that assures uniformity between computers and applications.
Pull technology:
In reference to the Internet or other online services, the technology
whereby people use software such as a Web browser to locate and "pull down"
information for themselves.
Push
technology: In
reference to the Internet or other online services, the technology whereby
information is sent directly to a user's computer.
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R
RAM (random-access memory):
Temporary storage built into a computer system that functions as a
"workspace" for data and program instructions.
Raster graphic:
A computer image made up
of a collection of dots. Can become ragged or otherwise distorted when the
image is enlarged or shrunk.
Real-time communication:
Communication in which information is received at (or nearly at) the instant
it's sent. Real-time communication is a characteristic of synchronous
learning.
Receive site:
A location that can receive transmissions from another site for distance
learning.
Repurpose: To
reuse content by revising or restructuring it for a different purpose than
it was originally intended or in a different way.
Resolution:
The clarity of the image on the video display screen.
Reusable: E-learning content that can be transferred to various
infrastructures or delivery mechanisms, usually without changes.
RFID (radio frequency identification):
A wireless
information-transmission technology set to take the place of bar codes. A
tag is placed on the object and then read by an antenna and transceiver. The
object does not need to be in the same line of sight as the transceiver, as
products with bar codes do, and the transceiver can function over greater
distances than bar code readers.
RFP
(request for proposal):
A docu | 
Simple
Solutions for Busy Teachers
