What is a Virtual Learning Environment?

A Virtual Learning Envrionment, or VLE, is a virtual classroom that allows the students and teachers to communicate with each other online. A VLE is a software system that is designed to help enhance a student's learning experience through the use of computers and the Internet.

Another name for a Virtual Learning Environment is a Managed Learning Environment, or MLE. They are also a very popular e-learning method.



Different Types of Virtual Learning Environments:

Video or Web Conferencing
Video or Web Conferencing allows teachers and students to communicate in real-time. Teachers may use this for lectures or question and answer sessions.








Class Website
A teacher may create a class website to post bulletins for their students. For example, a teacher can assign a homework assignment and post a bulletin to remind their students. Also, class websites could also include .pdf files of classwork assignment or notes for students who were absent during class. Websites could also include quizzes and/or tests.


Online Forums
Online forums are a way for students and teachers to discuss topics or concepts over the Internet.




Sources:
Information:
http://www.techterms.com/definition/vle
http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/0,,sid9_gci866691,00.html
http://communication.howstuffworks.com/elearning.htm

Images:
http://clg.coventry.gov.uk/ccm/cms-service/stream/image/?image_id=15000202
http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/elearning_qascreen.gif