E-learning 101 is an e-book that will cheer you on, while it shows you the ropes. It’s just like having your own personal e-learning coach.
This e-learning resource can do three things for you.
1. Save you time – by quickly explaining how everything works (it’s much faster than guessing on your own).
2. Stop you worrying – by replacing your fears with action and progress.
3. Make you more confident – by giving you step-by-step strategies for dealing with the tricky parts.
E-learning 101 can help you if you’re:
• Somewhere between slightly nervous, and frankly terrified • Frustrated with having to guess about what to do next • Too busy to wade through enormous books about online learning • Keen to make progress on your course right now.
In 6 short lessons, you’ll find the solutions to your biggest e-learning questions. And you’ll discover that e-learning’s really not as tough as it looks.
I'm Liz Hardy, an e-learning specialist who's helped around 3,000 online learners in 21 papers, from beginners to graduates. I hold degrees and diplomas in several disciplines, including a PhD, and Adult Training qualifications.
I know that online learning looks pretty tough - especially when you're just getting started. But a few simple strategies can make all the difference to your learning experience.
I share my passion for learning by offering practical e-learning answers in the e-book "E-learning 101" and on my website, ElearningTrainer.com.
‘If you are an adult learner who’s new to online learning, this guide’s for you.’
One of the great opportunities afforded by the digital age is online learning: enabling individual access to learning in virtual rather than actual classrooms. It’s convenient – learning outside formal timetables and designated institutions - but requires some adjustment and self-discipline in order to make the most of the flexibility offered through technology.
At the same time as these more flexible learning opportunities become available, many adults are requiring new learning in order to retain (or obtain) employment. But not all adults are equally comfortable with computers and the internet, and it’s easy to be distracted in an online world. So, how to make the most of the opportunities afforded by online learning, and succeed? If you’ve recently enrolled in an online course, or are considering it, and you are new to online learning, then this guide may well help you.
In six short lessons, Dr Liz Hardy covers the fundamentals: Lesson 1 Who’s Afraid of technology? Lesson 2 Too busy to study Lesson 3 How to study when you don’t feel like it Lesson 4 Can’t it wait ‘til tomorrow? Lesson 5 When deadlines attack Lesson 6 Is there anyone out there?
All modes of learning require a commitment of time and a degree of self-discipline. Technology can be daunting at first, but eLearning interfaces are designed to assist and help is often only a phone call or an eMail away. For many, online learning may seem lonely: no other students to interact with. Dr Hardy offers some ideas for building your own support network.
Online learning can be a lot of fun and very satisfying – but there are challenges, especially for those of us who are easily distracted and prone to episodes of procrastination. Dr Hardy provides a practical and relevant guide, and I love the dog illustrations that appear on each page. Cutely relevant: even we old dogs can learn new tricks.
Note: I was offered, and accepted, a copy of this manual for review purposes.
Dr. Liz Hardy sent a request to Indie Chicks (www.indiepicks.wordpress.com) to ask if either Faye or I would review her book, E-learning 101. She mentioned that I might be a good person to review it as I have a background in adult instructional learning and design, and I agreed that it was a subject that interests me.
The book is very straightforward, written in everyday language, except for a few odd terms that adults new to online learning might not know. For example: Learning Management System Moodle or Blackboard (apparently they are Learning Management System platforms), but these were the only technical terms I noticed that I thought could have benefitted from further explanation.
The book is broken down into six lessons, each with subsections and ‘take action’ tasks plus key summaries at the end of each chapter. The chapter headings are quite self-explanatory: 1. Who’s afraid of technology? 2. Too busy to study? 3. How to study when you don’t feel like it 4. Can’t it wait ‘til tomorrow? 5. When deadlines attack 6. Is there anyone out there?
One particular section in the book spoke to me, and that is Lesson 2 where the author shows how to find time in busy schedules to carve out the hours needed to study. What I noted was that her strategy would work equally well for writers struggling to find gaps in their busy lives in order to write, or painters to paint, or dreamers to dream. It is a great chapter with good all-around tips for anyone searching for ways to squeeze more time from their busy lives.
‘E-learning 101’ is a quick read that should appeal to adults returning to the world of study after possibly many years of being away. I wouldn’t say anything in the book is new or earth-shattering, but it certainly is easy to read and digest and does not ‘talk down’ to the reader.
So, if you’re an adult getting your feet wet in the online world of E-learning you could quite possibly benefit from reading this book. Although its scope is very general in nature it does have quite a few good tips and strategies to help you make the most of your new experience.
It was a pleasure to read this book. When I was asked to have a look at it, I wasn't sure I'd have much to contribute, as I am not usually an e-learner. However, I have needed to pick up a few skils for work and was using Internet resources to do so, so the timing was good! The books is laid out in a simple and fresh manner with plenty of places to write down the practical steps that help transfer the theory into action. I thought the book addressed the challenges that face the e-learner in a direct but positive way and I would expect that those who might be intimidated by the prospect would find this a helpful resource (a certain technophobic retiree aged relative comes to mind!)
Title: E-learning 101: It’s not as tough as it looks Author: Dr. Liz Hardy Publisher: Liz Hardy Date: 2012 Pages: 46
Overview: The purpose of this book is to take the worry out of e-learning for adult learners. Dr. Liz Hardy informs students of the basics of e-learning through very short lessons accompanied by action steps. Students considering an e-course will be confident of their success after reading this e-book.
Purpose:
Background information: Liz Hardy enrolled in university as an adult after experiencing a lack of job satisfaction in a series of office jobs. She worked in higher education for ten years then began working in e-learning. Dr. Hardy has helped thousands of online learners. She is the developer, author, and administrator of ElearningTrainer.com. Dr Liz Hardy believes learning can change everything and getting over fear is worth it.
Evaluation: In E-learning 101, Dr. Hardy uses humor and cute little dogs to give new learners the skills they need for success in e-learning. Light humorous instruction helps to increase learning by reducing stress. There are many scientific reasons why humor helps to increase learning, but teachers know that it works. Students remember more and perform better when they are relaxed.
Many of the success skills can be applied to college and university success in general. All students struggle with procrastination and organization. As an adult learner we can use life events and packed daily schedules as an excuse to put off due dates, or we can learn to organize, prioritize, and find applications of what we are learning to what we are living.
One of the first suggestions from Dr. Hardy in E-learning 101 is that you become familiar with the way online learning works, school and class requirements. Once you know the expectations you can plan to excel at them.
Although online learning eliminates the stress and expense of commuting to class, don’t be fooled that you are only working on a machine. You are taking part with other human beings. Etiquette is important, as is doing your part to help your classmates remembering they are helping you. Also keep in mind that your classmates could become part of your professional network and lifelong friends.
People in the university want you to succeed in your classes and later on in your career; to keep up the university’s reputation. They have high expectations. Meeting deadlines is important for graduation success and for later career success. It’s to your advantage to complete work on time, however E-learning 101 tells exactly what to do if something comes up preventing you from submitting it on time. All those people helping you succeed will listen to and work with you if you talk to them.
What’s missing An additional piece of information that students need to keep in a booklet like E-learning 101 is your student identification number and the directions to access the university library and website learning modules. There are times students have to access the university library and download academic journals for class assignments and research. There are also multimedia modules some professors use to enhance learning, reach students who learn differently, and present alternate real world applications to evaluate. A student ID is the university’s way of ensuring that the copyright owners of learning materials are properly compensated.
Summary: I wish I had a copy of E-learning 101 when I was getting ready to begin taking my online classes. It would have calmed my nerves and increased my confidence. As with any new venture, the unknowns can cause almost paralyzing stress. The E-learning 101 booklet gives a handy place to keep contact information, to view the blocks in your schedule that e-learning will fit into your adult life, and a place to plan meeting due dates. I attended online classes while my children were in middle school and high school. The convenience of online classes made it possible to work, volunteer for their scout troops and band activities, and study with other adults from all over my home state, the USA and the world. My advice for adult students working toward improving their lives by attending online school courses is to use E-learning 101 as a resource, remain flexible, and enjoy the adventure.
If you like dogs and you want to learn, this little book’s a great place to start. And no, I didn’t mean if you want to learn about dogs. The dogs provide light-hearted, well-chosen illustrations to some simple lessons on how to start e-learning in an excellent, easy-reading book by an author who’s not trying to tell you what to learn or how to find a job, just how to learn using the wonders of modern technology. This nicely technological ebook is peculiarly satisfying, with pictures that stay where they’re meant to be even when you change the font size on your kindle, headings that look like headings, list that format simply with sensible white-space around them... Okay, maybe you’re not worried about those things, but they mean a lot to me. A book that’s easy to read is so much easier to learn from.
The author tells how your chosen learning system should give you access to study material, present the material engagingly, then get out of your way so you can learn. As a microcosm of such a learning system, this manual truly works. For someone who’s already signed up in a program and putting off those first steps, E-Learning 101 becomes the best friend at your side, telling you it’s okay to drop down those menus, log in and out, and enter discussion boards. And of course, any student’s best friend is always a dog. Canine images keep the learning light-hearted, make you smile instead of cringing away from the task, and give you that encouraging moment to draw breath.
E-Learning technology really can make learning easier, and this book, together with its dogs, helps you find out how—even when the glitches swallow your assignments (ah, the frown on that little pup’s face!), or daily life swallows your time. Practical suggestions deal with scheduling, motivation, procrastination, distractions and all those other everyday problems that get in the way of studying, making the whole process seem sensible and safe. If internet learning dismays you, I definitely recommend this little book.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review
Merged review:
If you like dogs and you want to learn, this little book's a great place to start. And no, I didn't mean if you want to learn about dogs. The dogs provide light-hearted, well-chosen illustrations to some simple lessons on how to start e-learning in an excellent, easy-reading book by an author who's not trying to tell you what to learn or how to find a job, just how to learn using the wonders of modern technology. This nicely technological ebook is peculiarly satisfying, with pictures that stay where they're meant to be even when you change the font size on your kindle, headings that look like headings, list that format simply with sensible white-space around them... Okay, maybe you're not worried about those things, but they mean a lot to me. A book that's easy to read is so much easier to learn from.
The author tells how your chosen learning system should give you access to study material, present the material engagingly, then get out of your way so you can learn. As a microcosm of such a learning system, this manual truly works. For someone who's already signed up in a program and putting off those first steps, E-Learning 101 becomes the best friend at your side, telling you it's okay to drop down those menus, log in and out, and enter discussion boards. And of course, any student's best friend is always a dog. Canine images keep the learning light-hearted, make you smile instead of cringing away from the task, and give you that encouraging moment to draw breath.
E-Learning technology really can make learning easier, and this book, together with its dogs, helps you find out how--even when the glitches swallow your assignments (ah, the frown on that little pup's face!), or daily life swallows your time. Practical suggestions deal with scheduling, motivation, procrastination, distractions and all those other everyday problems that get in the way of studying, making the whole process seem sensible and safe. If internet learning dismays you, I definitely recommend this little book.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review
Some of us--and I'll fess to being totally in this group--don't like to approach a new experience without an orientation.
This book is the freshman orientation for online education.
I wish I'd had this book before I began my first online learning course. Unfortunately, that was a long time ago, because I'm just geeky to get close to the bleeding edge once in a while. I'm also just geeky enough that I never really feared online learning.
Still, I would have appreciated the author's advice about time management and procrastination. Actually, her advice there is helpful to anyone who works alone. I especially like her method of turning excuses upside down. The technique of rescheduling distractions as rewards is also brilliant.
Each chapter features selected action steps for you to take and concludes with an easy-reference list of key takeaway points. The book is well-written, with a lively style that makes it a quick read. Just the thing for someone jump-starting their first online course.
The Kindle edition unfortunately bears signs of a print design converted to e-format, even though there is, at this point, no print edition. Remarks in the book refer to "printing" the pages, and the PDF version of the book is perfect, so getting that version from Hardy's website, elearningtrainer.com, may be your best bet. For the most part, the book's designer has done a great job. There are only a couple of hitches in the Kindle conversion with charts that are designed like the fill-in-the-blanks sort of thing you'd find in a printed workbook. The charts run offscreen in the Kindle app, requiring a sideways scroll. Nevertheless, the Kindle conversion is well-done--better than most.
This is what I like to call a right-sized book. At 48 pages, it is still comprehensive, dealing with all the major issues that are likely to trip up a newbie. The $10 price tag may seem a bit steep for a 48-page book, but if this is the book you need to embrace online learning and succeed at it, that will be a tenner well-spent.
The marketing for this book is clear: It's designed for people who are afraid of embarking on their first online learning experience. Online learning is only going to become more common, and people who let fear prevent them from participating will find themselves left behind. This book will prevent that sorry state.
Disclaimer: The author provided free e-copies of this book for review purposes.
I received a copy of this book from the author for review purposes. I was not compensated in any way for the review, and everything stated in this review is my own honest opinion.
Let's start by being clear on who the target audience is for this book -- this is intended for ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS in e-learning course, for people intimidated by online classes (or the internet in general). If you're looking for something on computer programming, click on that search bar and try again.
Ok, now that part is cleared up, let's do the actual review. 'E-learning 101' is nicely formatted and filled with simple, no-nonsense, common sense advice. This book discusses how to help organize and prepare yourself to take an internet based course, and how to get the most out of the course.
What I liked about this book: Dr. Hardy actually tackles one of the biggest issues in internet based courses -- time management and procrastination. When you're signing up for e-courses at your local college, advisors sometimes fail to mention how crucial it is that you are self-motivated, a good independent worker, and good with time management. I know several people who failed their e-courses because they didn't manage their time well, and not because they didn't understand the material.
Dr. Hardy's time management and self-motivation tips and tricks are right on the money. E-courses can be a great asset, but you have to be prepared to push yourself.
What I didn't like about the book: I think it would have been helpful to include a few screen shots of some of the most commonly used e-learning management programs (like BlackBoard or Moodle) to give beginners a better idea where to start. But I do understand that colleges often customize these, so screen shots may not reflect what a user would actually see when they sign in.
My only other complaint is that the advice in this book is really common sense. Manage your time wisely. Don't procrastinate. Seek help if you need it. There's some good tips and tricks in here to help you with time management if you struggle with it, but if you're organized and a fairly independent worker, this book isn't for you.
Final verdict: Great advice for ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS or for people who have trouble managing their time (or keeping themselves motivated). This book is not appropriate for all e-learners, but if you fall into the above categories, it may be worth checking out.
In six easy to read, straight talking lessons, E-Learning 101, dispels the myth that learning online is difficult, not worth the effort and unsociable.
A handy go to guide, each subject is dealt with in an informal almost jovial way so the reader understands not only how to get around the online management system they are using but why they may not want to learn via a computer as well as motivate them to complete a course undertaken.
With topics such as 'Who's afraid of technology?', 'How to study when you don't feel like it' and 'Too busy to study', Dr. Hardy gets down to the crux of the question. It asks the reader for the answers with 'Take Action' segments. It gets the student to really think about why or what they want out of the course; for example 'List 3 of your reasons for enrolling in the online course'.
The addition of various pictures of dogs with myriad of expressions removes the idea that this is another run of the mill 'how to' guide book. It says a lot without being condescending and anyone not sure about online courses would be motivated (and be confident) to get going after reading this book.
It's a guide that is quick to read. I've taken online courses before and would have been glad of guide such as this simply because Dr. Hardy motivates you, understands procrastination and makes you work out how to fit studying in to a busy life. Although seemingly aimed at adults, college and high school students would gain just as much - after all it'show they live right now - computers, social media...
With ten years experience in higher education, Dr. Hardy has helped thousands of online learners. Along with her site ElearningTrainer.com which makes e-learning more accessible, this additional 'pocket-guide' is a great back-up making this sphere of education not so daunting. A recommended read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.
E-learning 101 is an excellent resource and invaluable tool. I particularly like the format and layout of the book. It is easy to read and only takes a couple of hours to read and complete the "action" sections. Liz Hardy clearly outlines the six areas adult e-learners may experience when they are starting out in the e-learning world and provides a summary after each lesson. Each of the six lessons includes a "take action" section for applying the lessons and there is plenty of room for taking notes. Liz Hardy also includes examples of how to apply this knowledge and how to be an active participant.
E-learning 101 is not only helpful for the first time e-learner, but for anyone who has taken an online course. This book is also for anyone who wants to work on time management, conquer procrastination, and increase their self-motivation.
Lesson One addresses the fear some students may have regarding technology and how to face that fear head-on. Lesson Two deals with finding the time to study in a busy schedule. Lesson Three discusses self-motivation. The fourth lesson looks at procrastination and how to overcome this barrier. Lesson Five looks at dealing with deadlines and Lesson Six emphasizes connecting with others for support in an e-learning world that can sometimes create a feeling of isolation.
As an online instructor and as a participant in e-learning, I highly recommend E-learning 101. An added bonus is that Liz Hardy has made learning about e-learning fun. I must mention the dogs throughout the book. They are adorable and fit right in. A perfect book for the adult e-learner.
Five stars for E-learning 101.
FTC Full Disclosure: I received a free copy of this e-book from the author and chose it for review.
You have been away from education for a number of years, perhaps earning a living, or, for whatever readon, physically attending college is not possible. You have heard about this thing called e-learning, but you wonder what it's all about. This ebook gives the answer.
The most important thing to learn is that no one will stand over you making sure your assignments are done. You can do them in your pajamas if you wish, but the obligation to hand them in on time is totally up to you. Before the course starts, make sure you can sign in to the education website. Find the spots where you can get, and hand in, your assignments. Also, find the spot where you can communicate with the teacher.
No time for school? Take a good look at your daily schedule. Maybe you can find only an available half-hour here or hour there, but multiply that by seven days, and you suddenly have more than enough time to study. Feeling less then motivated to study? You'll do the assignment "tomorrow"? This is where you have to discipline yourself to actually do the work, now. If not, then why are you taking the course? Set up a reward, like watching your favorite DVD, for after you finish the assignment.
Set up some kind of early warning system, whether paper or electronic, for major events, like exams or term papers. Deadlines are never fun, but, suddenly realizing that a multiple-page paper is due tomorrow, and you haven't started it, is much worse.
This book does not try to say what course, or what major, you should choose. It looks at the basics of e-learning, and does an excellent job. It is short, and very easy to read, even for those who think that they are "too old" or "too (whatever)" for school. It is well worth the reader's time.
Full disclosure: The author provided me a copy of her book for review.
E-learning has emerged as a mainstream module for education, and online learning opportunities are vast. However, technology can still be intimidating. As a result, anyone new to e-learning might shy away from a good educational opportunity out of fear. Dr. Hardy's book thoroughly addresses how to begin and complete an e-course with confidence.
The following topics are broken into succinct discussions and action steps that, if followed, are a path to success:
1. An introduction to the various teaching modules possible within an e-course like interactive quizzes, video lectures, blog links, and online activities.
2. A resource outline to complete before beginning an e-course so if a technological glitch occurs, there is an action plan in place.
3. A list of realistic expectations a learner should understand before beginning a course. While an e-course offers maximum flexibility, it does not diminish the time commitment homework and study require.
4. A laid out schedule the reader can complete to help him/her manage time well.
5. A few points worth remembering when motivation wanes.
6. Recommendations for staying in front of deadlines, and helpful suggestions when an exception is needed.
7. A host of ideas to create an online support network.
This manual offers simple advice, and I suspect if a reader does follow it accordingly, s/he will complete any e-course successfully and will have also gained a new scope of technological confidence.
I received this book last week, and read it in less than twenty minutes. It's quite a quick read, and very self-helpful. I'm not sure if I would spend $9.99 on it, though.
Liz Hardy is a teacher that is well accomplished so she knows what she's writing about. As for the puppies that show up randomly every other page or two, it's quite funny, and does have a relax feel for adult that are unsure of e-learning.
The information in the book wasn't beyond anything I didn't know. Though, I am not an adult, or nervous/scared of e-learning I am fascinated by this new way of learning. I myself am learning Italian through the BBC language learning website. I'm on my fifth week of the Italian Steps program, and am very glad I started the program. It's completely free, and I'm getting off topic. What I'm trying to say, is that the book is helpful if you're a busy parent, or work constantly.
The novel explains some tricks that you wouldn't have known otherwise. I may have found my way of not procrastinating through this book. I probably will keep procrastinating, but in a better way, if that makes sense.
I don't have much to say about the book, but if you fit in the category of a anxious/scared adult, that works, and wants to go back to school, online, then I think this is a great way for you to be exposed to the online learning world. That's why I give the book a heads nod, and thumbs up. (4 out of 5)
If you liked my review, please check out my blog at http://readrw.blogspot.com/ (I don't always update my goodreads, but I blog everyday)
I got this book as a kindle review copy from the author, and I do not regret accepting it one bit! This a pretty good introductory book to e-learning. It's pretty small and you can read it in a 2-3 hours. Each chapter is self contained and can be read independently or out of order. Each chapter also list action items you should be filling out while reading, which might take you a couple extra hours to complete, but are worth it. The chapters cover the most typical points someone new to e-learning experiences, and gives useful tips for each situation.
This book is not an extensive guide on e-learning, as it very well explains in first couple of pages. It's a fast guide for newbies, to get them through their worries and make them get to work. And it's really good on it, with applicable tips, exercise and good humor! And some of chapters are also applicable to other areas, like the one on beating procrastination (which is one of my personal issues).
The only reason why I don't grade it 5 starts is the exercise tables format, which only half shows up in the kindle reader. That's really annoying, and makes it harder to understand, but it's easily correctable for the future.
I would definitely recommend this book to who is new to e-learning and wants a quick guide to get through the course. 4.5 out of 5 stars!
Remember the old days of traditional learning from a thick heavy textbook and taking notes in a black and white composition notebook on college-ruled paper? Well times have changed. Technology has evolved and now many students learn through online courses and learning management systems such as Blackboard or Moodle.
This short eBook covers areas that adult learners struggle with most. There are easy action steps you can apply to your own unique situation. E-Learning 101 addresses relevant topics such as how to handle deadlines, how to ask for an extension, how to become comfortable with the learning system, how to arrange your schedule and even how to get involved in discussion boards.
Dr. Liz Hardy, the E-Learning Specialist, has helped thousands of online learners develop new skills in communication and writing, business and management, and e-learning design. The main goal of this manual is to take the worry out of e-learning. After you complete the manual, I am sure your e-learning worries will be gone. You will find that e-learning can be fun! (So is this eBook with pictures of dogs, and talking dog testimonials on the related website www.elearningtrainer.com where you can find studying tips, mini lectures and further information.)
E-learning 101 is a precise read that will take about an hour or so out of your life but will reward you with the inspiration and drive to tackle an e-learning course with great success.
As technology and the internet starts to take over more and more of our lives, online learning courses are becoming more common and are a great way to become educated in a huge number of areas.
This book is a great resource for anyone new to online learning and 'self-paced' learning courses. It gives you small tasks in each chapter to get you focused and in control of your studies and also makes you think about reasons you procrastinate and waste time so that you can take charge and never miss a deadline.
There are also some great suggestions on building on online support network so you don't feel so isolated by not being in a physical class surrounded by other students.
I think this guide would be helpful to anyone participating in distance education, be it via an online learning format or even just by correspondence in another format as the majority of the pointers are useful to any student.
It is also full of gorgeous pictures of dogs in relevant poses which always gets a great 'thumbs up' from me!
E-learning 101 is a self help book that will allow you to understand how e-learning works.
I've read multiple self-help book throughout the years and I found them all very helpful. Most of them had a great impact in my life. And I found this one; E-learning 101, another helpful self-help book because it was an easy read, and it is a book that tells you straight up, "It's okay to do e-learning" and "there is nothing to be afraid of!" but it's not only with e-learning, it's with the internet in general. With meeting new people online and meeting up with them in person.
E-learning 101 speaks about how it will be like when you do e-learning yourself. It explains how your life could be like, and it shows you ways in fitting e-learning into your daily schedule. It tells you how to deal with deadlines and procrastination.
The dogs make a great addition to the book. It signifies what the author is trying to portray, it's something that makes you smile while you're in the serious zone.
All in all, E-learning 101 is a very informative book, suitable for adults and young adults who have an interest in doing e-learning in the future. It's an easy read, and very straight forward. Plus the dogs make it fun to read!
The author sent me a copy for the purposes of reviewing.
E-Learning 101 is an easy to read guide designed to assist people embarking on online study. It's goal is to make the whole experience less daunting. I imagine the intended audience as (perhaps) older folk who are intimidated by technology or people who are Ok with computers but maybe not very confident with forums etc. The tone, layout and illustrations are all non confronting and everyday language is used throughout.
While the focus is online learning there are some self-help lessons (such as how to find time in your day to study, how to recognize and overcome procrastination) which could be applied to many different areas of your life. I am not the intended audience of this manual but still found something to take away from it.
I think this would be a good resource for those people needing some assurances around e-learning and strategies for returning to/embarking on further study. It's not rocket science but it does present lots of ideas and strategies for overcoming some of the barriers in an easy to access way and I imagine if you are totally freaking out about online study then this would be the book for you.
[Full disclosure: Liz Hardy sent me a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.]
This isn’t normally the sort of book I’d review, but E-learning 101 is useful not only for adults learning online, but for teenagers too. Especially teenagers in small schools who have to take some courses online that their school doesn’t offer.
I find that one of the downfalls of most how-to books is that they don’t actually explain how to do things, but only give you tips without the reasoning behind them. Not so in Liz Hardy’s book! Not only does she tell you what to expect, she tells you some things you can do to make learning by correspondence easier and some common pitfalls students face. At the end of every chapter she has a box you can write in so you can actually apply the lessons she teaches you to your course.
Finally, adult learners who are either currently using e-learning or expect to be using e-learning can read a book that gives practical advice about what e-learning is like. There’s tips on scheduling time to work on your course, getting rid of procrastination (one of my personal bad habits) and avoiding loneliness. Really, what else can I say? This is 48 pages of pure gold!
Also: cute dog pictures on nearly every page, if you like dogs.
This book is very straighforward and to the point. Broken down into 6 lessons, the information is easily read and absorbed.
I wouldn't say that I learned anything prolific or even anything new really. Given that I do have some experience with e-learning having taken some online courses during my college career, none of the information was new to me. But, I can see how it might be helpful for someone who doesn't have much experience with technology or online learning.
The chapters have nice summaries at the end with the points the author wants you to take away from reading them, as well as simple tasks to help you stay on track. The most important lesson that the book stresses is time management, and fitting studying into a busy schedule.
The one thing that didn't really work for me is the pictures of the dogs on the cover and throughout the book. I'm not sure what the author was aiming for in using these, but I found them distracting.
I would say that this is a good book for a quick read and some easy to follow tips.
Full disclosure - I was provided a copy of this book by the author.
The world of E-Learning has opened up new opportunities to so many people these days. The challenge for many is that they may not be experienced with studying and may find doing it online very different from what they first thought.
This book is good primer for those who are getting into E-Learning for the very first time. It covers all the basics and should be handy to many first time students as well, whether online or not. The book takes some handy hints and tips and puts them together in an easy to follow format.
If you are new to the world of E-Learning and looking to get your feet wet this book is a great starting point. It is going to provide you with much of information that you'd probably learn in the first few weeks, however reading the book and being prepared up front is going to make the whole process much less daunting.
In summary, a great first time guide for those getting into E-Learning that is easy to read and has plenty of handy suggestion to help you succeed with your learning in the new online world.
I received a copy of this book from the author for review.
As someone who has participated in e-learning quite a bit for several years, I found this guide to be packed full of great tips for simplifying the process for those who are unfamiliar with it. I was blown away by how much great information was crammed into such a short book.
I have only one criticism for this book. Maybe it's really an idea for another book. I would have liked to have seen more information about how to go about using online information to educate yourself. This book is very much aimed at those enrolling in online courses, which is fine, but it seems to me that a large portion of e-learning takes place outside of formal course instruction.
I appreciate the opportunity to read and review this book. As I said before, there is a great amount of useful information for the e-learning novice who wants to enroll in online courses. That's the audience for this book, and its clear, concise presentation of relevant material is impressive. For such a short book, it contains an amazing amount of pertinent information. It is well worth the time for someone seeking such information.
E-learning 101 is a fun and easy to read guide with some great tips on how to study on-line. Not only is short and fast to have read but it also had some adorable dogs to keep you in company while you read.
In 50 pages the author, Dr Liz Hardy, describes the main points to be remember during your learning experience. Nowadays you have on-line courses everywhere, and I really mean everywhere, some colleges have their degrees courses divided between virtual classes and the ones you actually have to attend to. This is why it is really important to pay attention to all the details involved in e-learning.
Anyone who faces the opportunity of this type of learning should read this book because it is not only ideal for adults but for all ages. It has the greatest advices on how to manage your time, your tasks, your study group and more.
And another point at its favor is that some of the recommendations are useful for all courses, both on-line and presential ones (how to manage your time has been one of the greatest missions in the life of any student).
(I received an ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review).
What I liked: This is my first foray into a self-help "how to learn" book. I imagine the target audience of this one includes Generation X and Baby Boomers, as e-learning wouldn't seem to be a frightening or unknown prospect to the Ys and 00s. In any case, the tone is conversational, and the tips are logical and well thought out. Lots of good tips here that will indeed help an e-learner ground themself before launching into that first online course.
What I didn’t like: The book is not for true beginners. It's too short, too clipped, and provides no definitions or referrals. I imagined my mother, a Boomer, taking an online course, and this book would not help her. My mom uses email and surfs the net, to a degree, granted, but a lot of the directions in this book (e.g., "learn what assignments are due" without explaining how to do that) are not going to help folks who truly have no idea how. And too, the book is too expensive for this genre IMO.
In sum: A good resource for someone taking their first online course -- providing the person is moderately or more web-savvy.
As a Dyslexic, I am very choosey about what I read.
Subjects that don’t interest me send my mind off to ‘Planet Gaga’ by the second paragraph, so when I was asked to read a book about E-Learning, I was somewhat reticent, thinking I was going to have to force myself to be polite about something I was going to have to admit to sleeping through. So I opened the PDF doc with an audible sigh.
Well let me tell you, by page two I was hooked. The design, colour and pictures are icing on a cake that is stuffed with information inserted in deliciously edible bite sized nibbles. It was not only a breeze to read but it was fun and interesting AND more to the point, I now suddenly have an urge to do an online course. If reading something about a subject that did not particularly interest me (I thought) had been this much fun when I was at school, I could have achieved anything.
Thank you Dr Hardy, for writing such a great little E-Book, I’m thinking now that maybe I might be able to start…and finish an online paper or two
This is a book primarily for those who are in or considering an online course. It is filled with exercises to help one overcome fear and develop the skills needed for success in online learning. The style is easy and fun, but as with any change, work is required. That necessary work is divided up into bite sized pieces, clearly explained, so that you can get the value without needing to flounder around looking for the elements that will make you successful at learning.
Disclaimer: I have not done the exercises, and this is based on a review copy of the book.
This book deals not only with obvious success factors, but connects the dots to real world learning, connecting with the online tutor, other students, and overcoming difficulties that so often assail and slow us down. As with any learning or growth, the most value comes to those who ponder and do the exercises. The book is filled with exercises that make sense, and move you toward your goal. Do them, and you will have a much clearer path of learning and growth.
In E-learning 101, Dr Liz Hardy playfully introduces the reader to the world of e Learning. Divided in six unequal lessons, the author explains the concept of electronic learning without going into any complex technical jargons involved in the associated techniques. The author stresses on the importance of time management, self motivation, proactively handling distractions, deadlines and the importance of finding alternatives to traditional support networks to undertake a successful e-learning journey. Each section is supported by strategy activities for the reader. This book is not an encyclopaedia of technical know how about how to create an e Learning course material. And this book not even claims to be so. Instead it is aimed at the novice e- Learner to take the worry out of e-learning.
A quick little read, with some handy tips and insights into studying on-line. I do actually go to Uni, but only for lectures, and then have to come home and get on with assignments and further self-directed study. Some really good ideas, and exercises that have made me face some home truths that the excuses I make not to study, the distractions I allow to disrupt my study time. This gem encouraged me to confront those, and remind myself what I am studying for, and what I chose my priorities to be. Highly recommended for anyone who is new to study, especially if you are e-learning. And great for anyone who hasn't gotten off the procrastination train.
Note : I received an advanced copy from the author for review. Thanks Liz - LOVE the photos in the book too!! And my cards are on the wall already.
When I began an online course some years ago it took me ages to learn how to negotiate my way around the course notes, the timeline, the online forums, learning how to submit my work and so on. How helpful it would have been had this book accompanied the initial mail out. Packed with easy to read instructions, explanations, handy hints and time management advice, this little book is a must-read for anyone contemplating doing an online course. It has a positive, you can-do-it approach, even in the tricky area of scheduling online study into our all-too-busy lives. The simple, clear advice, accompanied by adorable doggy illustrations, is an inspiration to dive in, follow a passion or take the opportunity to upskill.
E-Learning 101 is available from http://www.elearningtrainer.com/e-lea... and covers the basics of e-learning, mostly focussed on mature students who may or may not be teach savy.
Now I'm not really the intended audience for this, however I suspect it would be very helpful to anyone who is interested in extending their education, but have little to no idea of where to start if they want to investigate e-learning.
The formatting is professional and pleasant looking, with humorous pics of dogs throughout. I also admire the author Liz Hardy's website as rather than flagrantly tried to sell her book, recommends who should buy the book and who should never buy the book.
Dr. Hardy has put her finger on the trend towards online learning/e-courses and created a short, easy to read primer that will, in her own words, "take the worry out of e-learning" and enhance anyone's experience and value derived from the online learning process.
She anticipates problems and questions -- everything from motivation to time management -- and addresses them in a friendly, professional, and helpful way. It is not intended to be an in-depth treatise, but aimed clearly at the beginner who has never tried e-learning before and who may be feeling some degree of stress or confusion about it.