eLearning Applications and Virtual Training Software

December 17, 2021

eLearning Applications andVirtual Training Software

eLearning Applications and Virtual Training Software

Many organizations and schools choose eLearning or hybrid learning models in response to the ongoing pandemic. This transition presents new challenges for Seniors, Students, and Kids.

Older Adults & Seniors

The demographic shift in Industry Nations is driving more older adults to use the Internet. eLearning programs and online activities appeal to Seniors, seen as a tool to remain in touch with modern life today. Technology presents itself as an opportunity to work remotely on projects or communicate with family members. As eLearning relies heavily on written text, research suggests that vision, hearing, cognitive capacities, and sensory changes need consideration in the development process of senior-friendly applications and websites. Large sans serif fonts, clear contrasts, consistent graphics are layout requirements. Desired design criteria are aesthetics, an informal content structure, engaging learning material, online interaction via posting and reading messages, next to overall usability. Slower speech patterns of integrated audio elements can be beneficial. Older adults can learn new skills, but the decline in memory performance over time can affect learning speed. Platforms providing asynchronous eLearning elements such as additional written transcripts to audio files offer the opportunity to self-directed, controlled learning at one’s own pace. The use of game formats in eLearning, requiring the user to explore the interface for subtle clues and functions, or to proceed rapidly, is more appropriate for a younger audience. In addition, mobile devices with small displays and keyboards can present usability obstacles for older adults. Devices equipped with foldable touch screens or handwriting recognition can support eLearning positively.

Students and Kids with ADHD

Without the rules and structure of the classroom, remote learning can be challenging for students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Video-based teaching limits the ability of teachers to see when students with ADHD get confused, distracted, or bored, start fidgety, or develop the need for a quick refocus prompt. The struggle to stay organized, manage time, keep up with lessons and homework can become overwhelming. Frustrations, tears, and tantrums can appear in front of a complex, multistep homework assignment. Research suggests that children with ADHD struggle with the brain’s self-control capacity. Also, the ability to persistently sustain action and problem-solving towards a goal. Reduced working memory is another challenge, making reading comprehension and retention difficult. Smart, digital online teaching and virtual lessons for kids with ADHD require more breaks (every 30min), chunking tasks into shorter units, and connecting with and soliciting feedback from students at a higher frequency. Learning tasks and game scenarios should provide a big picture, followed by smaller pieces and details. The integration of sound means in learning game applications, such as listening to white noise or soft background music, can help stimulate and focus kids’ brains while working through online math problems. Numbered text paragraphs and hashtags can support online reading on screens. Paced formats in batches are beneficial for memory and to absorb all information. Visual reminders, clues, and time management techniques can be implemented on mobile devices, providing start and break times, schedules for playtime with friends, due dates of assignments. Tablets and cellphones can help students with ADHD to keep track of time, boosting focus, skills, and productivity.

Students and Kids with Autism

Unlike most other topics, not much research exists for students with autism as they begin online learning. Some students may see benefits as learning via a computer screen removes many social pressures that can feel overwhelming or distracting. However, evidence shows that visual supports can assist autistic neurology and increase comprehension by making things easier to process and understand.