Virtual learning environment

Definition

A virtual learning environment (VLE) is a virtual environment that supports learning by supporting learning activities plus "social presence".

Here is a picture that shows key elements of a virtual learning environment that supports project-based learning: File:Virtual environment activity community.png

A virtual learning environment is any sort of environment that supports teaching and/or learning with Computer-mediated communication, e.g. a LMS, a C3MS, a Website + Forum.

Schneider, the initial author of this article doesn't like this definition...

Here is definition from Dillenbourg, Schneider & Synteta (1993)

A virtual learning environment is a designed information space.
A virtual learning environment is a social space: educational interactions occur in the environment, turning spaces into places.
The virtual space is explicitly represented: the representation of this information/social space can vary from text to 3D immersive worlds.
Students are not only active, but also actors: they co-construct the virtual space.
Virtual learning environments are not restricted to distance education: they also enrich classroom activities.
Virtual learning environments integrate heterogeneous technologies and multiple pedagogical approaches.
Most virtual environments overlap with physical environments.

"Virtual learning environments" can be a tool for collaborative learning.

members of a community tend to make better progress (peer intellectual & emotional help and mutual stimulation)

some goals can\u2019t be reached alone (distributed cognition) a group can develop special language and practice adapted to specific problems