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There are many terms for online education such as virtual education, internet based education, e-learning and web based education. What characterises this style of education however is the fact that there is a separation of teachers and learners which differ to face to face education, the influence of an educational organisation which distinguishes it form a self study or private tutorial, the use of a computer network to present or distribute content and the provision of communication via a computer network. An online education Support System is thus defined as all systems that support online education. (Paulson, 2003, 25-26)
Today there are two main models for an Online Education Support System and these are known as the jigsaw model for online education support systems and the hub model for online education support systems.However there are two main models for an Online Education Support System and these are known as the jigsaw model for online education support systems and the hub model for online education support systems.Both of these models incorporate and Integrated Learning System or ILS. Kaplan-Leadsperson (2003, cited in Paulsen, p. 26) defines the integrated learning system as a complete software, hardware and network system used for instruction in addition to providing curriculum and lessons organised by levels. ILS usually include a number of tools such as assessment, record keeping, report writing and user information flies that help to identify learning needs, monitor progress and maintain records.
While both systems incorporate Intergrated Learning Systems as previously mentioned the jigsaw model is very simplistic and includes four main categories of online education support systems. These are content creation tools, learning management systems, student management systems and accounting systems. It is called a jigsaw model because these systems fit together and exchange data easily.(Paulsen, 2003,p. 27)The hub model however is more complicated than the jigsaw model because the center of the model is a student management system. This is because there is a growing number of online students who expect a high level of quality form their educators. The student “Hub�? is the center of the system which smaller systems linking off it. These systems include content creation tools, learning management systems, accounting systems, prospective systems, logistics systems, customer relation management and other such systems. (Paulsen, 2003,p. 28)
Paulsen, M. F. (2003). Online Education: Learning Managment Systems, Norway: NKI Forlaget, Part One: Online Education Terms pp 25-33. ISBN 82-562-5984-2
Natalie Harris 22:51, 27 Oct 2005 (EST)
