Key terms
A glossary of some key terms.
Asynchronous learning: activities that students engage with over a longer period, at times that suit them, for example, reading materials and discussion in an online forum.
Blended learning or hybrid learning: a combination of online learning and face-to-face learning. Hybrid learning can refer to offering the same course with options of studying online or face to face.
Learning Management System (LMS) or Virtual Learning Environment (VLE): online platforms designed to host teaching materials, guide students, and support communication and learning activities.
Online learning: teaching occurs and course materials are delivered through the internet.
Open Educational Resources (OER): teaching and learning materials that are shared and licensed for reuse and adaptation by anyone at no cost.
Remote learning or distance learning: involves substantial distances between the student and teaching staff, without the need to meet in the same location.
Synchronous learning: activities that require a student to join at a particular time and engage in real-time, such as an online tutorial delivered at a particular date and time through video conferencing.