The previous post was about free online books and where to get them. If a textbook is one that contains text on paper or on a web page, then what is an audio book? Yep, you got the right answer. An audio book is a "book" that contains audio on... On what? On a CD or in a music file format. Yeah, that's it!
Imagine Mr. A reading a book and recording it with a microphone. Simple, he has already created an audio book. Whether save on the PC as a file or recorded on CD, Mr. A can listen to what he read anytime he wants to.
Audio books are not always created using the above methods. With all the technology in this era, man has been able to make software that can "read" books and save the audio. That is, software that can convert text to speech. Pages from books are scanned by the software, converted to text and then "read" into audio.
Some people prefer audio books to textbooks. I think this is just because of the convenience of relaxing, leaning back on an armchair and feeling some breeze while learning at the same time. This can be a bit misleading, though, if you over enjoy it.
Where can you find these books and get them free of charge? I have already done the research and collected some web sites for you. Just visit them and get smart with their content. On these sites, you will find the books recorded as mp3 files. On some sites, only the low quality books are available for free. No problem! Just download them and I will teach you how to regain their original quality.
http://www.audiobooksforfree.com
http://www.freeclassicaudiobooks.com/
http://librivox.org/
http://literalsystems.org/abooks/index.php
http://www.free-books.org/
http://www.learnoutloud.com/
http://www.makeyougohmm.com/20060928/3829/
These are the best I have found. I hope they be as useful to you as they are to me.
Playing the downloaded mp3 files or streaming them directly from the web can't be much of a problem since full functioning computers always have at least one music player, e.g. windows media player for PCs with windows platform.
Yours Truly,
Ferdinand CHE.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Audio Books for Free...
Free Online Books
"Ok, I understand that online learning stuff. I can get the notes from some websites. whatever. But is that all? What about other learning resources I may need? Where do I get books and...?"
Hey, hold up. All these questions for me? I will anser just one. The books.
Yes, when learning online, you will need books just like in a normal traditional class. These books are most often called electronic books, and in various formats like pdf, doc, xls, pub, html, etc. You can actually get them free of charge an arm yourself for online education.
Some websites organise free books into categories for surfers to easily locate them. Some of these free books are downloadable while others are "read-only". For the downloadable ones, you might need acrobat reader or/and office installed on your PC. Most often, I prefer the downloadable ones because I can access them offline. Though the read-only books can also be saved on the PC, I think that may be against copyright laws.
I am going to list some websites that offer free books online, but I won't give a review of any because the principles are almost the same; you visit the site, you sign up (or not), browse books by topics, authors, categories or year of publication.
I have personally tried many. I will bet these are the best.
http://onlinebooks.library.upenn.edu/
http://www.textbookrevolution.org/
http://www.gutenberg.org
www.pagebypagebooks.com/
http://www.readprint.com/
http://2020ok.com/
http://www.onlinebooks4free.com/
When I talk about "books", what exactly comes across your mind? Web pages displaying texts from published books, or links to download the books in electronic format? Is that it?
Have you ever heard of the term "AudioBook"? Check out my next post.
Yours truly,
Ferdinand CHE
Learn What? Learn That!!!
On the previous posts, we examined electronic education in general and online education in particular. We have our interest on free online education. The definitions have been made clear, as well as the various types, and advantages and disadvantages of online education. We have made a review of one great website free-ed.net, where one can actually study courses online free of charge.
Now comes another great website. learnthat.com. I love this one.
Learnthat.com is a little different from free-ed.net in that it is more of tutorials than courses. In this regard, it is possible for one to learn just one aspect of a course or a program for a very short time. For example, instead of learning a full program on painting, you can just learn how to pain your house…ha ha ha…that was not a good example, I guess.
Learnthat.com offers hundreds of free tutorials in Business, Certification, Computers, Finance, House, Internet and Lifestyle topics. Each of these topics are broken into sub topics, which are in turn broken into smaller units for convenience. If you get lost, just use the search field and I bet you will feel at home.
Learnthat.com is part of a network of 8 websites. The latest website in that network is mytutorials.com. This great site will enable you request tutorials, author new tutorials, or edit ones someone else has written. Great, isn't it? One advantage of creating an account at mytutorials.com is you can actually track tutorials of interests to you. Go for it!
Sorry i won't tell you what the next post is all about. I am sure you will visit again, Yes you will.
Yours Truly,
Ferdinand CHE
Which is Which?
Promise fufilled!
Web-based Learning, or Distance Learning?
E-learning, Web-based learning, online learning, and distance learning are widely used as interchangeable terms. However, these terms represent concepts with subtle, yet consequential differences. In this article, we reveal the differences, review the meanings of these terms, and suggest definitions.
A clear understanding of these concepts and their fundamental differences is important for both the educational and training communities. Applying each of these terms adequately is key to assuring reliable communication between clients and vendors, members of technical teams, and the research community. A thorough familiarity with each concept and its distinctive characteristics is a critical factor in establishing adequate specifications, evaluating alternative options, selecting best solutions, and enabling and promoting effective learning practices.
Before I give you a strict definition of the above terms, let's have a reason for distinction.
Methodology
Meanings of technical terms can be determined in many ways. Terms for new concepts are often derived intuitively from related concepts. E-learning and Web-based learning are examples of recent concepts that acquire their meanings from the related concepts of e-mail, Web, and learning. Other times, concepts are derived by shading their meanings with aggregated adjectives. Online learning and distance learning obtain their meanings this way, as does Web-based learning.
More established concepts are defined in the technical literature with precise and widely accepted meanings. Definitions for distance learning and distance education have been proposed by Keegan (1986) and Garrison & Shale (1987). Khan (2001) and Hall (1997) associate Web-based learning with Web browser technology, often delivered via the Internet or intranets. Much literature associates e-learning with Web-based learning over the Internet (e.g. Rosenberg, 2000; Driscoll, 2002; Horton, 2000). Schank (2001) refers to learning activities involving computer networks as e-learning, and stresses that e-learning is not merely distance learning. The concept of online learning predates the appearance of the Web, but most recent publications about online learning refer to materials delivered over the Internet or intranets (e.g. Malopinsky, Kirkley, Stein, & Duffy, 2000; Schank, 2001; PBS, 2001).
Occasionally, technical literature diverges from the common usage of these terms, either over-generalizing or restricting their meaning. For instance, one publication uses e-learning as a catch-all term for any form of electronically delivered learning, including computer-based learning as well as video. And a few authors restrict Web-based learning to learning materials on the Internet, excluding the same Web-based materials delivered on CD-ROM.
Our approach to defining these terms involves two complementary methods. The terminology is analyzed based on the individual meaning of the constituting terms, and the meaning of related concepts. For online learning, for instance, we examine the meanings of "online," "learning," and the meanings of related but better established concepts such as "online documentation," "online service," and "online help." In addition, we review expert literature for actual uses of the terminology and proposed definitions. These two sources are then combined to reveal key differences and overlaps among the concepts.
Definitions
E-learning is mostly associated with activities involving computers and interactive networks simultaneously. The computer does not need to be the central element of the activity or provide learning content. However, the computer and the network must hold a significant involvement in the learning activity.
Web-based learning is associated with learning materials delivered in a Web browser, including when the materials are packaged on CD-ROM or other media.
Online learning is associated with content readily accessible on a computer. The content may be on the Web or the Internet, or simply installed on a CD-ROM or the computer hard disk.
Distance learning involves interaction at a distance between instructor and learners, and enables timely instructor reaction to learners. Simply posting or broadcasting learning materials to learners is not distance learning. Instructors must be involved in receiving feedback from learners.
For each of these concepts, the discriminating feature must be the primary characteristic of the learning activity. Intensive use of the feature is required, since incidental or occasional use of a characteristic feature is not sufficient to qualify for a certain type of learning. For instance, running a CBT application from a file-server does not qualify as e-learning; and e-mailing a teacher after taking a class on a campus is not sufficient to qualify as distance learning.
A definition for e-learning emerges from the parallel concept of e-mail. E-mail is typically described as the activity of transmitting "mail" with computers and networks. In the same way, e-learning refers to learning activities that involve computers and networks. (The internet and intranets are considered networks.)
E-learning does not require learning materials to be delivered by computer, but computer and networks must be involved in this type of learning.
Web-based learning entails content in a Web browser (not just activities), and actual learning materials delivered in Web format. In this, Web-based learning is analogous to textbooks, where the content determines whether a book is a novel, a report, or a textbook. Simply offering computer-based training (CBT) for download from a Web site is not Web-based learning since there is no learning content in Web format). Web browsing the learning content (even linearly) is the key feature of Web-based learning. Web-based learning content is typically retrieved from a Web site, but alternative solutions are acceptable (a hypertext Web does not require Internet or networks). For instance, some Web-based learning offerings operate from CD-ROM, and many are offered on dual format: Web site and CD-ROM. The CD-ROM solution is typically associated with situations where network access may not be available or practical, like in schools lacking Internet access or in the midst of a military conflict.
Online learning is related to the more common concepts of online help, online documentation, and online services. It is associated with readily available learning materials in a computer environment. Often, online learning refers to learning materials directly accessible from within a core application (like in online help); however, learning materials available online on a network also qualify when readily accessible. Network use is not necessarily required, and in fact the concept of online learning surfaced before the development of the Web and before learning materials were delivered over the Internet or networks.
Web-based learning and learning courseware accessible from within a core application can also often qualify as online learning. However, having to search for or open a separate application to access materials does not qualify as online learning since the materials are not readily accessible.
Distance learning is a concept older than most of those discussed here. It does not require the use of computers or networks. It involves interaction between class members primarily at a distance, and enables the instructor to interact with learners. Distance learning is typically associated with televised broadcasts and correspondence courses, but it also applies to certain
e-learning applications. On the Internet, educational interaction primarily at a distance is required between instructor and students, or between students. Typical distance learning in this context includes Internet-based live instructor broadcasts, video-conferencing, chat and scheduled online conference discussions, and even
e-mail courses or discussions.
However, Web-based courses do not often qualify as distance learning even though the author/instructor produced the materials at a distance from the students (for the same reason that simply shipping a textbook or CBT to a student does not qualify as distance learning). Web-based courses are akin to video broadcasts of educational materials. Many broadcasted educational materials are not distance learning since the "distant" instructor only produces the materials, and is not further involved in the education of the students. These only become part of a distance learning activity if the instructor (or instructing institution) obtains educational responses from the students and reacts to them with adequate educational responses.
Illustrative Case Scenarios
Examining a variety of sample cases helps clarify and reinforce the points made above.
Research on the Web for a classroom topic is e-learning, since the principal learning activity is Internet-based. The research per se is not Web-based learning, since the research is an activity that does not involve learning content. The research may, however, involve reviewing Web-based learning materials. Researching materials on the Web for a school paper at home, in a library, or an Internet-café is still
e-learning. The location does not matter. It does not matter whether the materials being researched are for a classroom project or for self-directed learning.
Educational games may be networked, allowing player interaction. Playing a networked educational game is e-learning, because of the use of networks. Playing a Web-based educational game on the Internet is three things: e-learning, Web-based learning, and online learning, since it is Web-delivered and is available online.
Online Learning: Accessing the Microsoft Office help tutorial while learning Office is online learning, for the same reason that accessing the standard help feature would be online help. It is not Web-based or e-learning since the Web or networks are not involved; it is also not distance learning.
On-demand, just-in-time training for an accounting application directly accessible on the Web is online learning, e-learning, and Web-based learning. Job aids on the Web for the accounting application are not e-learning or Web-based learning per se, since job aids are not learning materials. However, if the job aids are used for performance-based learning, then using the job aids becomes e-learning, Web-based learning, and online learning.
Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL): encompasses a variety of learning applications, including e-learning, Web-based learning, distance learning, and conventional learning solutions.
Conclusion
Though e-learning, Web-based learning, and distance learning are all related to each other, they have significant differences. Failing to recognize the fine differences between these concepts limits the pace of development of expertise, precludes precise communication with team members and stakeholders, and often reflects a poor understanding of available alternative solutions.
Adequate use of the terminology offers indisputable advantages. Referring to each concept appropriately not only conveys precise and accurate messages, but also entails correct actions and provides clear view of challenges, potentials, and trade-offs. In the end, recognizing subtle differences in language enables faster individual development, more accurate and discerning research, improved communication, and ultimately better products.
Yours Truly,
Ferdinand Che
Online Learning: Advantages and Disadvantages
In the previous post, I defined what online learning is, and also gave you the different types. I promised you clarity on some words that are being used interchangeably, with online learning being one of them. I will fulfil that promise in the next post.
To my own opinion, the world would have been a better place if the "all good" or "all bad" laws were feasible, so that we can always select the "all good" and make the most of it. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
Online learning has its own advantages and disadvantages as opposed to traditional classroom education.
Advantages of Online Learning
Constructing one's daily schedule in the most 'time-effective' way is the key to success today, considering the pace at which everybody's life is running. Leverage the 'Time factor' and you have made it to the top. This explains the increasing significance of online education. This is why the number of online schools and colleges has increased significantly across in the United States (US) and other parts of the world. This indicates the growing shift towards online education.
Here are some of the most important advantages and benefits that online education offers, which you may consider in case you are looking out for various options to pursue higher education at your own pace and without disturbing your schedule.
Accessibility: Thanks to online education, the distance from the campus is no longer a barrier that separates education and the students. Today's generation of students has the advantage of utilizing their time effectively, since there is distant online education available to them. To access online learning, all that the students need to do is to install the contemporary communication equipment such as computer and Internet and enroll for the desired courses online.
Student-Centered Learning: The students dictate the learning experience in online education. Here because the teacher is not teaching you all the time, you have the liberty to prioritize your schedule and complete the assignments as per your convenience. In online mode of education, the students are at freedom to select their learning methodology. The choices available are audio, video, or oral components.
Fair Playing Field: Online education is growing in popularity also because it promises a level playing field for the people participating in it. Learning online does away the bias and colored decision-making based on ethnicity, physical appearance, race or gender of the student. Here, the sole criterion of evaluation is the performance of the student.
Convenience and Flexibility: Online mode of education offers the participants the flexibility of gaining access to the lessons online. This is very convenient and does not hamper the education process if the student is not staying at a convenient location. Moreover, online education and learning has overcome the barrier of time. This allows the students to attend lectures for various subjects as per their schedules. Therefore in online education the students have an opportunity to set the priority of their schedule and execute the tasks at hand accordingly.
No Relocation: Most students prefer online education because it eliminates the necessity of them going away from their parents to pursue their goal. With online education all you need to succeed in your courses is installation of contemporary communications equipment and motivation to succeed.
Interaction: Online mode of education offers an opportunity of purposeful interaction to the students at a higher level with their instructors as well as with their fellow students. The courses in online mode of education are designed in a way that each student gets an opportunity to offer their contribution to the discussions related to a subject and offer peer reviews.
Thus online education helps in creating an environment wherein the students get opportunity for free dialogue delivery and education becomes a positive experience.
Disadvantages of Online Education
Although there are many advantages of an online education, there are also some disadvantages. The fact that you are working on your own could very well be one of the major disadvantages of taking online educational classes.
Consider the busy lifestyle of most people. Between work and family responsibilities, the average person has little time to dedicate to outside pursuits even when those pursuits could mean a better job, more money and better benefits. Simply finding the time to attend regular classes may be impossible so an online education becomes a viable option. But the same reason that online education is a great option - lack of time - is the very reason that online education is often difficult.
Procrastination: When you're attending a traditional class, you go to school at a prearranged times. You are expected to be in class and you are forced to keep up with your instructor's assignment schedule or risk failing the course. With an online education, there is probably no one checking your progress on a regular basis. You may be given some guidance along the way, but you and you alone are usually responsible for working your way through the course. Since you can work at your own pace, some people find themselves putting the work off until they don't have enough time to finish the requirements.
If there are no time requirements, the opportunities to put off working on the material is even greater. You can literally go for weeks or months (or even years) without finishing the material to get credit for the course. You've paid for the opportunity to learn, but a lack of motivation is often the downfall of those who seek out online education.
Lack of "Physical" Interaction: You aren't in a classroom and don't have the opportunity to hear questions and discussion from other students. This isn't always an issue, depending on the subject of the online education course you are taking, but it could be an important factor in deciding whether an online education is the best option when seeking out opportunities for learning new skills or gaining new training.
E-learning, Online Learning, Web-based Learning, or Distance Learning…Do you know the differences? Check my next post.
Yours Truly,
Ferdinand CHE.
Online Learning? What is it?
hi friends, welcome back to my blog. In my last post – Real Education for Real People, I introduced you to www.free-ed.net, a site that offers hundreds of free online learning courses…Let's not rush tings here. Before we continue, it is good for us to know exactly what online learning is, and the different types of online learning models.
What is online learning?
Before defining online learning, please let's look at the definition of a broader term – electronic (e-learning).
E-learning is Education via the Internet, network, or standalone computer. e-learning is essentially the network-enabled transfer of skills and knowledge. e-learning refers to using electronic applications and processes to learn. e-learning applications and processes include Web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classrooms and digital collaboration. Content is delivered via the Internet, intranet/extranet, audio or video tape, satellite TV, and CD-ROM.*
Online learning is just one component of e-learning, the one that deals with the internet. Online learning is therefore defined as "Any learning experience or environment that relies upon the Internet/WWW as the primary delivery mode of communication and presentation".
Types of online learning
There are different models of learning that are particularly useful in an online environment. Each type is defined and linked to articles and resources.
Live (Synchronous) online learning: In this form of online learning, communication occurs at the same time between individuals and information is accessed instantly. Examples of synchronous e-learning include real-time chat, and video/audio conferencing or the virtual classroom. Synchronous e-Learning can provide instant feedback on a student's performance and allows the training to be adjusted immediately if needed. It also provides a way to accelerate the building of learning communities or social presence. It aids learner engagement and provides an environment where synergism can be expressed and learner can empower learner to construct knowledge. The disadvantages of synchronous e-learning are that the training is not self-paced and the logistics of scheduling, time zones, and student availability need to be managed.
Store and Forward (Asynchronous) online learning: This happens when communication between people does not occur simultaneously. Some examples of asynchronous e-learning include taking a self-paced course, exchanging e-mail messages with a mentor, and posting messages to a discussion group.
Store and forward learning is very advantageous when considering convenience, accessibility, and the fact that it is self-paced, but on the other hand, the student may feel isolated or be less motivated without any real-time human interaction. In addition, asynchronous e-learning does not provide immediate feedback on a student's performance, leaving adjustments to training until after an evaluation is completed.
Blended (mixed mode) Learning: is a combination of traditional face-to-face lectures, tutorials and workshops with online activities such as email, announcements, discussion boards and quizzes. Learners can receive timely feedback from online tests and quizzes to identify gaps in their knowledge and understanding. Also because of how students use the Internet in their lives there are other learning community benefits for using online learning in a face-to-face environment.
Characteristics of online learning
Any online learning method must exhibit at least one of the following characteristics
- Purely online - no face-to-face meetings
- Blended Learning - combination of online and face-to-face
- Synchronous (live)
- Asynchronous (store and forward)
- Instructor-led group
- Self-study
- Self-study with subject matter expert
- Web-based
Yours Truly,
Ferdinand CHE