What do all of these terms mean for Distance Learning!?

Distance Learning has been around for many years! This consortium was founded in 1992 and although the technology is changing, the same principals apply to the learning environment through videoconferencing. There are a lot of terms right now that deal with distance education! Below is a list to help explain each.

Hyflex - NEW! = This term has been created during the pandemic. This involves using Zoom (or other cloud client) with students in the room and at home part of the time and content in an online platform such as Google Classroom, etc...

IDL = Interactive Distance Learning (a term mostly used in Kansas and the Midwest), it used to be ITV. Exactly what it says, it's interactive, live, distance learning with live video; fully synchronous.

IVC = Interactive Video Conference, this is used more internationally, also by ISTE. This is an interactive video conference, all synchronous and live.

IVL = Interactive Virtual Learning, this is a newer term to mean the same as IVC. Some see IVC as getting outdated.

Distance Learning = all forms of distance learning (synchronous and asynchronous). That includes IDL as well as online.

Online Class = traditionally asynchronous with all instruction, learning, and questions online with no live video component. No synchronous component. Many times featuring recorded videos, but no live interaction. Not sitting in a class at one time, can be taken at anytime.

Videoconference Class = live, interactive video and audio between all parties. Synchronous video and audio. Features online components to aid instruction (Google Classroom, Kahoot, etc..). All parties are in the class at the same time.

Streaming = live video feed, but not interactive. Only the instructor or presenter is live and the feed can be watched by anyone anywhere.

Hybrid or Blended Class = a combination of videoconference and online. It might have 2 days of live videoconferencing with instructor, then 3 days of online content. It is both synchronous and asynchronous. Two days all parties would be in the classroom at the same time, then the 3 online days can be completed at any time.