Virtual learning environments are software packages that are configured to allow the educational process to occur in an online situation. Containing components that are intended to offer most of the benefits of a physical classroom, the virtual learning environment will include elements that benefit both the teacher and the student. Since the 1990’s, advances in Internet technology has made the use of a virtual learning environment practical for many people who wish to pursue structured learning for college credit as well as attend courses that offer continuing education credits.
For the teacher or instructor, a virtual learning environment, or VLE, allows for the creation of a syllabus for the course. A student version can easily be created from the more detailed syllabus that the instructor will use for the course. This feature effectively allows the instructor to create to necessary resources at one time.
Virtual learning environments will also allow the instructor to track student progress on assignments, set up and administer exams to students, and keep up with all the administrative details associated with any structured learning environment. The instructor has the ability to issue access to different components or resources associated with the environment. This makes it possible to share teaching tools when appropriate, or limit access to the main learning tools that are prepared for use by the students.
Students in a virtual learning environment, especially a distance learning scenario, have the ability to attend classes around work schedules and other commitments. While the lectures and assignments are preplanned and may be viewed multiple times, the student still has access to the instructor. With many learning environments online, this will include email correspondence, interactive chats with the instructor and other students several times a week, and in some instances one-on-one online chats with the instructor.
While the primary application for a virtual learning environment is online, many of the resources can also be translated into use in a traditional learning situation as well. An instructor can choose to utilize virtual learning software to create slide shows, lesson plans, and other components that will work well in a physical classroom. One of the emerging applications is to use the software to create learning tools that are presented in a real world setting, but are then made available for review in a virtual setting.