Online Learning

Online learning offers an opportunity for LINC learners to learn English while they build digital literacy skills through real world online skills development, practice and tasks. Online learning can provide flexibility and access to LINC classes to learners who cannot attend in-person 
classes. When LINC was first established, it was offered exclusively as a classroom-based, in-person program. Then a remote learning version called LINC Home Study was established, and in the last few years, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of online programs available. 



In LINC, online learning can take many different forms. The online component of a class can be either synchronous, where online activities are completed in real time with an instructor using video conferencing, or asynchronous, where learners complete online learning activities independently, on their own time and at their own pace. There are many different types of online learning:

• a fully online class, including LINC Home Study
• a blended class where learners are in-person part-time and online part-time
• a hybrid (hy-flex) class where the instructor is simultaneously teaching in-person and online learners
• a self-directed learning interactive tool, app or resource for remote learners 
• an online activity or resource used in an in-person LINC class
  
  

While some organizations use their own learning management system (LMS), all LINC programs can access Avenue, a Moodle-based LMS. Learners on Avenue can complete CLB and PBLA-aligned e-learning activities within themed modules while building their e-portfolios. Instructors have the flexibility to customize their courses through Avenue’s Course Builder function, uploading activities from Tutela or by creating their own Moodle activities.

Organizations using an online approach should:

• consider digital equity to ensure all learners have access to online learning supports; lack of digital knowledge or experience should not be a barrier 
• choose a common online learning delivery model and a digital platform that learners can access, creating a continuity of learning as they progress from level to level
• have digital navigators on staff to support learners with online access and training
• offer learners ongoing digital skills training and access to foundational training such as keyboarding, email use, website navigation and so on
• offer an introductory course or module for learners who are new to online learning or the LMS
• offer access to LearnIT2Teach or other digital skills training opportunities for instructors, as well as opportunities for ongoing professional development and mentorship
• have program administrators and PBLA Leads complete the LearnIT2Teach Leadership micro-credentials
• consider partnering with government or community organizations to offer low or no cost access to hotspots, Wi-Fi and or devices

When you are teaching online, you should use checklists or guidelines such as Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to ensure all e-learning activities used are accessible. 

Stage I learners may need additional support to be successful online. LINC programs should consider developing a digital skills needs assessment for learners to complete at intake to help learners determine if online learning is a good match for them and to identify which
digital skills need to be developed.