What is a virtual learning environment?
A virtual learning environment (or VLE) is a web-based environment that has the ability to host a comprehensive online education for K–12 students, college students, and continuing education students. It takes the traditional whiteboard-classroom model and adapts it to a modern digital learning platform. It can be completely customized with digital tools in the classroom designed to fit the needs of students and teachers, and provides an interactive digital space for learning and accessing online course materials at any time.
While we experienced a quick dive into e-learning in 2020 during the pandemic, the long-term benefits of online education have steadily grown, especially as educational technology has continued to get better. It’s a format that works for many and offers a unique take on education that we’ve never seen before—until now.
Why is virtual learning needed for students & teachers?
Virtual learning provides new opportunities for catered courses and lessons, specialized learning content, and teaching strategies, helping all kids succeed. Students and teachers from all around the world can now access online education and set a foundation that works with their personal and professional goals, financial capabilities, and lifestyle.
This world-wide access opens the door to new talent, including top-tier educators and subject-matter experts. It also provides more cost-effective options for students in higher-education institutions while still providing the benefits of an all-inclusive learning environment.
How effective are virtual learning environments?
According to a study featured in the Detroit Free Press, K–12 online school graduates have significant advantages in career readiness when compared to traditional brick-and-mortar schools.
One main reason is that e-learning students have access to advanced learning management systems (LMS) and distance learning options, including synchronous environments (also known as hybrid environments) that allow them to explore careers, gain work experience, and earn a competitive edge. And when it comes to school administrators, 86% believe that virtual learning is a great complement to traditional education.
How can teachers enhance virtual learning for students?
As the world of education continues to evolve and grow, there’s no doubt that virtual learning in schools will continue to play a huge part. Most classrooms will eventually incorporate virtual learning tools, like Google Classroom, into their curriculum if they haven’t already.
By integrating digital technologies, educators have personalized learning tools, tips, and techniques at their disposal to help enhance the virtual learning experience through innovative technology, engagement, collaboration, and more. The ultimate goal of these tools is to prepare students for the future while empowering educators. Explore our expert tips for optimizing virtual learning experiences for students.
1. Create an engaging environment
Through multimedia elements like videos, images, audio, and interactive discussion forums, educators can engage students at different levels and help them develop a more concrete understanding of the subject.
Because it is virtual, students are able to take advantage of asynchronous learning (or learning on their own pace and time) with the ability to accommodate different learning styles and needs. Virtual learning environments and learning platforms also provide a collaborative space with the option to complete coursework and communicate feedback easily.
2. Use video conferencing software
Unlike a traditional classroom, video conferencing breaks geographical barriers and allows access to students and teachers who have limited ability to attend in person. This may include individuals or families with health concerns or physical limitations, expats living in another country or region, or lack of access to transportation, for example.
Video calls provide flexibility and convenience, boost engagement and personal connection, and are a digital hub for unlimited resources through e-books, webinars, online group projects, and more.
3. Ensure end-to-end encryption
Safety is always a top priority for students and teachers, and this includes digital space and virtual learning environments. Education IT teams face a number of challenges surrounding device tracking and antivirus software, but end-to-end encryption can keep students and teachers safe from cyber attacks.
Students can communicate, exchange information, and house their projects in an encrypted program that keeps their information safe and protected. This is especially important for any expats living abroad or families who move from destination to destination throughout the year with access to various Wi-Fi providers and permissions.
4. Leverage chat and instant messaging tools
Communication is a vital part of education and personal development in general, and it’s important online students have the same exposure. Virtual learning environments provide chat, instant messaging tools, and discussion boards that make it easier than ever for students and teachers to interact. Teachers can use this to their advantage by allowing students to work together on projects and assignments, and by giving real-time feedback and support on all projects.
5. Use participation control tools
Staying on the topic of collaboration and communication, participation control tools can take a standard remote learning video lesson to the next level. Teachers can implement tools like breakout rooms, polls, quizzes, and interactive chat features into their lessons to boost student learning and keep retention high.
These tools are user friendly and easy to implement into any lesson, and they can also cater to the individual needs of students based on performance and feedback. With this data, educators can develop specialized lesson plans, learning materials, and course content to keep them engaged at every stage of the lesson.
6. Use data tracking
Data tracking helps take the guesswork out of lesson planning by providing concrete, detailed information to help teachers and their students succeed. It can identify specific areas of improvement and tailor learning experiences based on the individual needs of each student.
Data tracking monitors student attendance, mastery, and engagement in virtual classes to help identify problem areas, which is then used to create personalized learning paths with educational resources. This data can also include detailed information on students’ social and behavioral experiences, which can help educators form stronger relationships with students and differentiate the way they teach.
7. Use icebreakers to get students involved
Virtual classrooms may be a new learning experience for many teachers and students, but there are ways teachers can ease students into the new environment. Use the online tools available to create fun games and activities, virtual backgrounds, or polls to get students engaged and excited about virtual learning. Break the ice with questions about hobbies and interests and encourage open discussions with other students that are on topic and respectful.
Should educators adopt virtual learning techniques?
According to MarketScale, 75% of schools in the U.S. plan to operate completely or partially online and 80% have purchased or are purchasing additional technology for students. Based on these statistics, it’s safe to say all teaching will include some virtual learning components – and it would be beneficial for teachers to adopt this new approach to education.
While virtual classrooms provide personalized learning options and engagement for students, they also empower educators to strategically plan their approach through data and resources. If you’re looking to help your staff level up with online learning, ASU Prep Global can help with customized professional development courses and teacher training to help educators and administration thrive in a virtual or blended learning space. Topics include AI integration, information technology, content management systems, blended learning models, and online course management, and are distributed via live webinars, on-demand tutorials, and professional online learning communities.
ASU Prep Global extends the reach of ASU Preparatory Academy to serve thousands of students across the U.S. and around the world. ASU Prep Global partners with other K–12 schools to build new models of educational success, embed early college experiences and provide access to the latest innovative technologies, digital courseware, and professional development. To learn more about ASU Prep Global or to enroll in professional development courses, visit our website.
Virtual Learning Environment FAQs
What is a virtual learning environment?
A virtual learning environment is a web-based platform that offers a comprehensive online education for K–12 students, college students, and continuing education. Full-time programs are offered, as well as with hybrid courses that complement in-person classrooms with tools and resources at their fingertips.
What are the advantages of a virtual learning environment?
Virtual learning environments provide a personalized approach to education through self-paced coursework, access to online resources, collaboration with others from around the world, and real-time feedback through data collection. It’s more cost-effective and typically has a smaller class size, which allows teachers to adapt teaching styles that fit the needs of individual students.
What is a virtual learning environment used for?
Virtual environments can be used in place of brick-and-mortar education or as a hybrid supplement. They prepare students for real-world environments by helping them develop career readiness skills and promote life-long learners thanks to the ease and access of online education. The pace can be asynchronous (flexible) or synchronous (more structured) depending on class requirements. Be sure to research to see which structure works best for you and your students.