What is e-Learning?

e-Learning is an extension of/ alternative to a traditional classroom setup. e-learning, commonly known as ‘online learning’ or ‘virtual learning’ is ideally a one-way or two-way digital communication established on a device with video and voice call integration using internet access. The last two years made us realize how technology can facilitate and improve communication. Digital technology had its impact in almost every industry including the sensitive education sector.

The emergence of e-Learning platforms

The covid pandemic has only fast-tracked the already growing digital education system. Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare and Coursera proved that online learning is inevitable and now schools, colleges and other institutions are being pushed to adapt to the modern change. e-Learning may never surpass the benefits of physical education but it has its own advantages like simplicity and accessibility; hence institutions are starting to think of hybrid models which include the right mix of physical and digital classes.

Bridging the student-teacher gap with in-app chats

Online classes are not just in-app video call communications. Imagine, a student has doubts and interrupts the whole class by asking them over a video; it disrupts the teacher’s flow and other students’ attention. That’s when chats come into the picture and complete the online learning model. Integrate chat applications into your e-Learning platform and enhance the learning experience by several folds.

Improved student-teacher interactions – In-app chats are streamlined instant solutions. A teacher can continue teaching and clear doubts simultaneously with messaging windows. This helps in clarifying personal doubts and keeps students engaged and connected
Remote interactions – Distance and reach are no more a problem for any student to learn from the best teacher. Video conferencing applications with in-app chats can adapt to any platform; with a good internet connection, remote learning can be made efficient and accessible
Interactive buttons – Customizable buttons like ‘Hand Raise’, ‘Clap’ and many more can enable smooth communication without interrupting an ongoing session
Session recording – Session recording feature facilitates revisiting complex sessions and also ensures important learning sessions are not missed
Customized classes – Online classes are usually smaller than traditional classes in size. This lets teachers create a more focused and personalized learning experience for different sections of students

Reasons why you need in-app chat for e-learning?

Video call and chat integrations into your e-Learning platform are not only real-time but also replicate the traditional classroom experience. The extensive features available in virtual learning platforms pave way for a more collaborative and interactive learning environment. When the right tools are put to use, this will be the most efficient and convenient learning method of the future. In-app chats are one such bridging tool that enhances the learning experience with simple yet powerful features.

Data sharing made easy – e-Learning reduces the burden of physically carrying books and notes. With simple file sharing features within the chat window, students and teachers can share notes, videos, ebooks and other documents easily and instantly. Assignment submissions, reports and performance analysis can now happen digitally.
Collaborative learning – in-app chats allow students and teachers to form focus groups and discussion rooms. Teachers can create specific topic/ subject groups for students and manage their access and accessibility. This helps them share thoughts and gain mutually.
Stronger student-teacher relations – chats can be more sorted and clearer making every student-teacher interaction meaningful and personalized.
Virtual learning – chats along with virtual whiteboards make teaching more convenient and understandable. Collaborative whiteboards let teachers draw, write or demonstrate complex topics and enable students to have an interactive learning experience.
Allowing educators to have better control – in-app chatting gives more control for the teachers to regulate and monitor the way students interact. Educators can moderate groups, filter conversations and manage student access with in-app chats.
Broadcasting lectures – in-app video calling APIs are a powerful tool to conduct broadcasting of classes. Live video broadcasting along with in-app chats are a great way to develop student-teacher interactions.
Reviews and feedback – with in-app chats integrated into your platform, you can collect reviews and feedback from students/ users. This ensures increased satisfaction and help focus on the points of improvement

e-Learning platforms with in-app video and chat features are the game-changers.

e-Learning platforms with in-app video and chat features are the game-changers. With the ease of mobile access to students, these applications will see a huge boom in the coming years. Steer clear of competition by developing an exclusive stand-alone platform. With the help of several solution providers in the market, you can traditionally build a platform from scratch or buy pre-built ones. Whichever be the case, here is a list of pointers to consider before you begin development.

Target audience – know your audience to the fullest. Students and employees do not deserve a similar approach. Based on who your audience is, add features and functionalities that are relevant.
Be unique – do research on what the existing players are offering. Understanding your competitors can help you build a platform that is exclusive to your users.
Meaningful content – existing educational materials from traditional classes may not always suit the digital model. Partner with experts to device meaningful and interactive learning materials.
Interactive design – create a design that is simple and powerful. A good design can keep your users engaged and invested.

Learnings

eLearning system can be tricky. As much as it sounds interesting, it comes with its own baggage; but nothing is going to stop its growth in the years to come. The key to overcoming the restrictions is to build a platform that is well planned and executed. With the right thought, you can create a powerful real-time e-Learning platform that connects students and teachers in a collaborative space and enables a seamless learning experience.

How in-app chats help e-learning platforms to be more interactive?