Wikipedia provides factual information about subject matter. In turn it is reasonable to trace virtual learning environments’ history back in time to 1728. This Website is available to obtain facts and details in regards to the subject at hand. The information given is helpful in understanding the growth and progress of virtual learning environments.
The current era of computing does seem to begin with the Xerox Parc project. Wikipedia states in 1972 that, “Alan Kay advanced the idea of graphical user interface by inventing icons for folders, menus, and overlapping windows (2010).” Throughout time these components have progressed and are used in the present.
In the 1980s there were many key virtual learning environment events. On a broad spectrum following are a few examples: educational software, online educational programs, and video gaming. This was a decade where technology boomed and began to grow within the educational realm.
Distant education became popular in the 1990s. Following the 1980s and the technological tools available to learn through there was a time of technology growth. Computers were more feasible and available to the average citizen. This is turn created popularity within distance education.
Wikipedia: The free encyclopedia. (2010, September 2). History of virtual learning environments. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. Retrieved September 4, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_virtual_learning_environments
Xerox Parc Project was a key element to developing an idea of a machine becoming part of life of citizens outside of science and large corporations. It was not until the boom of the Internet when education started to be more affordable and convenient to learners who otherwise would not be able to continue with higher education. Most educational value in distant learning is still in higher degree courses. Many distant educational tools parents and teacher use today are also the means for basic learning in preK-12. Great job summarizing the history of VLE.
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