eLearning | Glossary
eLearning Glossary – S, as in... Part 3
Psst… just a little side note: We choose our glossary terms based on the first letter of the original German words. So don’t be surprised if the English version features slightly different terms than the title might suggest.
The letter S has plenty to offer in the world of eLearning! Having already explored terms such as interfaces, SCORM and Single Sign-On in the first two parts, our glossary series is now entering its third instalment.
This time, we're focusing on three more terms: Software, Storytelling and Support. They demonstrate that successful digital learning depends not only on the right technology but also on engaging ways of delivering knowledge and reliable assistance.
But what exactly do these terms mean?
Software
Software refers to programs and digital instructions that run on a computer or another electronic device. Together with hardware, it forms the foundation for using digital applications.
Software is generally divided into two main categories:
- System software: This includes operating systems, which manage a computer's essential functions and enable other programs to run.
- Application software: This includes programs designed to perform specific tasks, such as word processors, web browsers and learning applications.
Application software plays a particularly important role in eLearning. One example is a Learning Management System (LMS). This type of software enables companies to provide online training, manage learners and track their learning progress. Authoring tools, which are used to create interactive learning content and online courses, also fall into the category of application software. Choosing the right software therefore provides the technical foundation for digital training and development.
Storytelling
Stories are often easier to remember than facts alone. This is precisely the principle behind storytelling. The term describes a method of communicating information through narratives. The aim is to present content in an engaging way, make connections easier to understand and capture learners' interest.
In eLearning, storytelling can be used to link theoretical knowledge to realistic situations. For example, instead of simply explaining information security rules, an online course might follow its main character through her working day. She receives a suspicious email and has to decide how to respond. This encourages learners to engage actively with a specific situation and explore the potential consequences of different decisions.
Storytelling aims to create an engaging learning experience that helps learners retain knowledge over the longer term. The key is to ensure that the story supports the intended learning objective rather than distracting from the actual content.
Support
The term support refers to assistance and, in a technical context, describes the various help and service options available to users who have questions or encounter problems with software.
Reliable support is important in eLearning. Even a user-friendly learning platform can raise questions or present technical difficulties. Typical situations in which support may be needed include login issues, difficulties accessing an online course or questions about using a Learning Management System.
Depending on the provider and the system, support can be delivered through various channels. These may include personalised customer service, a knowledge base, user guides or a ticketing system for managing support requests.
S for Software, Storytelling and Support
These three terms illustrate how different factors can contribute to successful digital training and development. Software provides the necessary technical functionality, storytelling helps make learning content engaging and easy to understand, and support ensures that learners have access to assistance when questions or problems arise. It is the combination of suitable technology, well-designed learning content and reliable support that lays the foundation for a positive learning experience.
And that brings us to the end of the third part of our eLearning glossary dedicated to the letter S.
