Learn the lingo: Online education glossary

Augmented reality learning  

Augmented reality (AR) learning is a relatively new educational method that blends real-world and digital elements. AR programs and applications add to your surroundings, many of which are accessed using a smartphone camera. Stargazing apps are just one example of an AR program. Users point their smartphone camera at the sky and the app creates a digital overlay that identifies the stars, planets and constellations you’re pointing at. More and more educators today are figuring out ways to incorporate AR tools into their curriculum.  

AR learning is closely tied to but separate from virtual reality (VR) learning, which is much more immersive. 

Authoring tool  

An authoring tool is a software program that allows users to create multimedia content for e-learning which can be incorporated into a learning management system (LMS). Authoring tools are designed to be user-friendly so that the user can create the course content without needing to know code or how to program. Some examples of popular authoring tools used today include Elucidat, Articulate Storyline 360 and Adobe Captivate.   

Blog 

A blog is a public website or web page where the user (or blogger) makes entries by posting information that is often in the form of commentary on a particular subject, journal entries, personal reflections and related links. Most blogs are primarily text-based, though other types include photoblogs, sketchblog, video blogs (vlogs) and audio postings (podcasts). Most are designed with a comment system so readers can respond to and discuss the posts. Blog is short for weblog. 

Although blogs originated from individuals posting entries online, many businesses today have blogs on their website to post topical articles related to their organization.  

Cloud-based software 

“The cloud” refers to a global network of servers that communicate with one another. Cloud-based software can be used to store and manage data, run applications or deliver a wide range of content to the user. The idea behind cloud-based software is that the information can be accessed from any device that is connected to the internet, as opposed to being stored locally on a computer. Google Drive is a well-known example of a cloud-based storage service.  

Computer-based training (CBT) 

A learning event or course conducted on a computer, but unlike instructor-led training (ILT) and web-based training (WBT), CBT usually occurs without much direct instructor input and may not require an internet connection (i.e. offline). This usually implies asynchronous learning. The term CBT is most often used in professional or corporate settings, but it can apply to higher education as well. 

Cookies 

Cookies are simple pieces of data placed on a computer hard drive by a website that records information such as a name, site login, password, preferences, shopping cart info or other details provided by the user. On subsequent visits, the website accesses the cookies stored on the computer, retrieve the stored information and customize the web page to match the user’s pre-entered data. Cookies are also used by digital marketing professionals to deliver targeted ads to users.  

Digital flipbook 

A digital flipbook is a type of e-book that visually resembles a printed book with things like page-turning, shadows and the like. Digital flipbooks are often accessed through a learning management system for online college courses, and in this context, they may simply be called an online or digital textbook. Digital flipbooks often track how far the user has read and include features such as being able to highlight passages or add comments and notes. 

E-learning 

E-learning is any type of learning that utilizes electronic media. E-learning often occurs on or with the internet for delivery, interaction or facilitation. E-learning can be synchronous, asynchronous, instructor-led, computer-based or a combination of these options. 

Email 

Email (or e-mail) refers to electronic messages consisting primarily of text in a letter-style format, sent between computers via a network such as the internet. Email is short for electronic mail. 

Forum 

A website or page where users can post commentary on a topic and reply to other peoples’ comments or postings. In online education programs, students typically have access to a class forum through the learning management system (LMS) where they can ask questions and have discussions with fellow classmates and/or instructors.  

Learning management system (LMS)  

An LMS is a software system that facilitates e-learning or supplements classroom learning and administration. These systems are usually run on servers and accessed by students from a website. These may include stored student work, e-learning resources, discussion forums, peer communication tools, digital textbooks, tracking of student progress, learning exercises and quizzes. LMS is sometimes referred to as a course management system (CMS), virtual learning environment (VLE) or virtual classroom. 

Canvas, Moodle and Blackboard Learn are just some of the most popular learning management systems used in higher education today.  Many online schools have their own proprietary LMS for students.

Local area network (LAN) 

LAN refers to a network connecting a group of computers in relative proximity to each other. A LAN allows users to communicate and share information with each other, as well as providing access to shared devices such as file servers, printers and modems. 

Multifactor authentication (MFA) 

MFA is a cyber security method that requires a user to provide two or more authentication details to be granted access to some sort of digital account or software, as opposed to a single username/email and associated password. By requiring the user to include more details about themselves (such as verifying a code sent to their phone number), security breaches can be minimized. Today, many digital accounts that store sensitive information—online banking accounts, payroll platforms, health records and even learning management systems—require or encourage users to set up MFA.  

Open-source software 

Open-source software is software that is distributed with its source code so that people can freely modify the software and distribute any modifications.  

Social networking 

The use of social networking sites including Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and others to interact with other users. These sites allow users to find people with similar interests, create and find groups and events or simply send direct messages to other users, all of which can be useful for students.  

Streaming 

Streaming is a technology where video and/or audio files are accessed in real-time via a network connection on the user’s device in a continuous stream. This allows people to access the files without downloading them onto the device.  

Streaming services like Netflix and Spotify have become an immensely popular way to access libraries of television shows, movies, podcasts and music.  

Threaded discussion 

Threaded discussion is an electronic discussion (via email, email list, bulletin board, newsgroup or online forum) in which messages are visually grouped, often by topic (called a thread or topic thread). Threaded topics allow for easier reading and location of information by the user. 

User experience (UX) / User interface (UI) 

UX describes the overall experience someone has with a given product, typically a website or computer application, especially in terms of its overall impression left on the user and the ease (or lack thereof) of usability. UI falls under the umbrella of UX but gets more specific. It describes the means in which the user and computer system interact. On a webpage, for example, the graphics, buttons, layout and more constitute the UI.  

Virtual library 

A virtual library is a collection of information in digital formats (as opposed to print or other media) and is accessible via the internet. Virtual libraries may be free to the public, subscription-based or require special access (such as being enrolled at a college or university). A virtual library is also called a digital library or an electronic library. 

Wide area network (WAN) 

A WAN is a computer network that covers a broad area, creating informational and communication links between computers that are not necessarily in close proximity to each other. A WAN is often used to connect LANs or other types of networks together. Some consider the internet itself to be the largest example of a WAN. 

Webinar 

Webinars are interactive online presentations where the presenter is physically distant from the audience. Webinars are presented via video conferencing software, such as Zoom. Webinar comes from a combination of “web” and “seminar.” 

ADDIE model 

The ADDIE model describes a five-step process utilized by instructional designers to create educational courses, online or otherwise. The ADDIE model is defined by its acronym: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation.  

Andragogy 

The methods, theory and practice of teaching adult learners. Andragogy is synonymous with adult education.  

Asynchronous learning 

In the realm of online education, asynchronous learning describes courses where the student can work according to their own schedule. In asynchronous courses, students can progress through the online course materials—such as reading an e-textbook, completing learning modules or taking quizzes—at their own pace, which can allow for more time to digest and reflect on the course content. Asynchronous courses lack the live, real-time learning environment that defines in-person and synchronous learning. 

Blended learning 

Blended learning refers to a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning elements, not to be confused with hybrid learning formats.  

Cohort 

A cohort is a group of peers in a course or program. Cohort-based courses in e-learning emphasize interaction between classmates as an important part of the learning process. 

Distance learning / distance education 

Distance learning is a well-recognized type of education that occurs when the instructor and the students are in physically separate locations. Distance education may be synchronous or asynchronous and many times includes live video streaming, online correspondence and computer-based education. 

Distance learning has been around since the advent of the internet, but it exploded when the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020 and schools were forced to implement distance learning practically overnight. Even though most schools have returned to the in-person instruction methods they used prior to the pandemic, the demand for fully online degree options has remained steady. 

Flipped learning 

Flipped learning describes an education methodology where students complete the reading (or watch a pre-recorded lecture or something similar) prior to class, and then work on live problem-solving activities during class time (whether in-person or online). This approach moves direct instruction into the at-home, individual learning environment while the more interactive learning elements are tackled during class time as a group.  

Gamification 

The act of incorporating gaming elements (points, rules, competitions, etc.) into other activities. Many instructional designers for online education courses use gamification to keep students engaged with the course content.  

Hybrid learning 

Hybrid learning describes educational programs that use a combination of online and in-person classroom instruction.  

Instructor-led training (ILT) 

ILT is a learning event or course led by an instructor and either held in a physical location or delivered via a network as a form of web-based training (WBT). ILT usually implies synchronous learning.  

Learning objectives 

Learning objectives are goals set by an educational program that clearly define the knowledge and skills students should have upon completion of a given class, program or something else.  

Massive open online course (MOOC) 

A MOOC is a distance education course without any limitations on the number of students that can enroll. MOOCs can be university courses accessed through the MOOC provider or skills-based courses taught by individuals. Courses might be free or cost a fee to access. Examples of some of the largest MOOC providers include edX, Coursera, Udemy and Udacity.

Mobile learning  

Mobile learning is a form of online learning accessed from a smartphone or tablet. Some instructional designers have even developed educational tools specifically for mobile devices. For example, polling software has become a popular feature in many modern classrooms to increase student engagement. Polling software allows students to respond to instructor-generated questions directly from their phone and see their results in real-time.  

Online learning 

Online learning is e-learning over the internet as opposed to using a local or wide area network. Most instances of online learning can also be referred to as distance education or remote learning.  

Synchronous learning 

Synchronous learning is an educational event or course where instructional interaction happens simultaneously in real-time. This form of learning requires that students attend class or lectures at specific times, whether in a traditional physical classroom or delivered via e-learning technologies. Rather than purely self-paced by the student, synchronous learning follows a predetermined schedule. Many synchronous online college courses today utilize video conferencing software such as Zoom to facilitate a synchronous learning environment. 

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) 

CLEP exams are standardized tests on by the College Board used to determine a student’s proficiency in a specified subject. Scoring high enough on a CLEP exam could grant you college credit at the more than 2,900 colleges that recognize CLEP exams. This could allow you to skip some introductory courses while you earn a degree, saving you time and money.  

Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) 

The GMAT is a standardized test for measuring aptitude in business studies, commonly required by Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs as part of the application for admission. The GMAT includes an analytical writing assessment, verbal and quantitative (problem solving and data sufficiency) sections. 

Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) 

The GRE is a standardized test administered by the Educational Testing Service and often required by graduate schools as part of the application for admission. The GRE General Test includes a verbal section testing vocabulary and reading comprehension, and a quantitative section with problem solving and quantitative comparison questions. 

There are also GRE Subject Tests intended for students who have majored in or have extensive background in the specific academic area being tested. These tests assess knowledge in eight subjects: biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, chemistry, computer science, literature in English, mathematics, physics and psychology. Admission requirements regarding the GRE Subject Tests vary by school and program. 

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) / Life Experience Recognition (LER) 

PLA or LER is a systematic procedure used to evaluate or grant credit for learning that occurred outside of formal educational institutions, such as knowledge and skills acquired through work experiences, self-directed study, community work, non-credit courses or corporate training programs. These types of assessments are often used to help gain admission into a post-secondary program or for advanced placement in an area of study. 

American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) 

The AOTC, formerly known as the Hope credit, is a tax credit offered to students enrolled at least half-time in an eligible college degree or certificate program for their first four years of undergraduate education. Students or their families may be eligible to receive 100% of their first $2,000 of tuition, and 25% of their next $2,000, with a maximum credit of $2,500.  

If the credit brings the amount of tax the individual owes to zero, then they can receive up to 40% of any remaining credit (up to $1000) refunded to them.  

College credit for corporate training 

Some schools grant college credit for approved non-college corporate training such as professional certifications, which participants can apply to their ongoing college education. Generally, the corporate training program must be pre-approved for credit by the school or credit granting organization. 

College credit for military training 

Many schools award college credit for previous military training, coursework and occupational expertise. Once granted, this credit can help fill college requirements, achieve advanced course placement and be applied to the pursuit of a college degree. 

GI Bill 

The GI Bill is a congressional bill that provides benefits to returning members of the armed forces to help them pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree at a college, university or approved independent study program such as an online bootcamp. The GI Bill is an education benefit earned by active duty, selected reserve and National Guard service members that can help pay for some or all of their education.

Lifetime learning credit (LLC) 

The LLC is a tax credit available to students taking at least one class from an accredited school, including classes in undergraduate and graduate programs and approved courses for acquiring or improving the student’s job skills. The credit is subtracted directly from the income tax owed by the tax-paying student, spouse of the student or a family claiming the student as a dependent. Students or their families may be eligible to receive 20% of the first $10,000 spent on educational expenses, with a maximum credit of $2,000 per tax return. The LLC is not applicable if a student is already filing for the American Opportunity Tax Credit. There is no limit on the number of years an individual can claim the credit. 

Continuing education unit (CEU) 

Continuing education units (CEUs) are used to measure a professional’s ongoing education in order to maintain their professional license. CEUs can be obtained through numerous pre-approved activities including attending professional conferences, taking college courses or stand-alone skills classes (in-person or online), watching webinars and more. 

Some professions that have to complete CEUs in order to renew their license include healthcare professionals, teachers, architects and more.  

Diploma mill 

A diploma mill is an organization that grants academic degrees and diplomas with very little or no academic study, operating without supervision or recognition by official accrediting sources. Diplomas from a diploma mill have little worth in academic or work arenas. These are also known as degree mills. 

Request for information (RFI) 

As the name implies, an RFI is a process for gathering information about a supplier’s goods and services. RFIs are present in numerous different industries, but in the online education landscape, opportunities to submit an RFI are often found on a school’s website. An RFI allows the user (the prospective student) to submit their contact information so that the school can follow up with more information about their program offerings.  

Section 508  

Section 508 is a 1998 amendment to the United States Workforce Rehabilitation Act of 1978 which requires that all federal electronic content to be accessible to those with disabilities. Although Section 508 only applies to the federal government, many businesses and organizations follow these standards to improve accessibility. Examples of assistive technology (AT) software than can help improve accessibility include text-to-speech or speech-to-text converters, screen magnifiers, onscreen keyboards and more.