State of E-Learning in Canada - Report

Yesterday, the Canadian Council on Learning (CCL) posted their report on the "State of E-Learning in Canada." It highlights some interesting trends in online learning for Canadians -- I particularly like their profile of e-learning for students in first nations communities, students in elementary and secondary schools, students with disabilities, and students in a post-secondary environment.

"Many Canadians go online to pursue learning opportunities. In 2007, one-half (50%) of all home users (16 and older) went online for the purposes of education, training or school work."
- State of E-Learning in Canada, CCL

The CCL also posted a great fact-sheet that summarizes some key points to take away from the ever-growing e-learning trends, including:

"How does e-learning help Canadians learn?
E-learning provides Canadians the flexibility to learn at their own pace at any stage in the lifespan—thereby fostering positive attitudes about the value of lifelong learning.
• Self-directed: Learners can choose content and tools appropriate to their differing interests, needs, and skill levels.
• Reduces physical and geographical barriers: More educational options to learners with disabilities, and those living in remote areas.
• Timely: Learning can be delivered and learned when desired or necessary."

It will be interesting to see if the promise of web 2.0, social software, and other e-learning trends will actually result in more effective learning in addition to increased flexibility, and if we'll be able to add words like "engagement, interaction, community connections, authentic learning" to the list of things that e-learning enables.