1995-1999 Era of Virtual Learning − 1 January, 1995
The five year period from 1995 to1999 was an era of discovery for course management systems in the U.S. and throughout the world. Significant usage of course management systems is noted in Germany at University Dortmund where multiple courses, user groups and teamwork in lessons are emphasized. This is a shift from single-user to multiple-user functionality of course management systems. Online course development was also evident throughout the world; 1996 Doncaster College in South Yorkshire, England, (“Common Learning Environment” newsgroups, WWW, conferencing), Australian National University Department of Computer Science (web-based course pages and network-based assignment submission), University of Southern Queensland (first fully online program-Graduate Certificate in Open and Distance Learning). In 1997, Digitalbrain was the most heavily used learning platform in UK; and still is in 2007.Many universities in the U.S. developed and implemented their own system to accommodate students. In 1996, Element K launched and hosted one of the first and most widely used learning management systems (LMS). In 1997, some universities and colleges were merely using web-based discussion and collaborative writing, such as Washington State University - OWL (online writing lab) an interactive forum with peer tutoring in writing. Many systems offered a wide range of capabilities such as course registration, discussion boards, quizzing and grades. Some of the most notable course managements systems during this period are still recognizable names today. Unusual however, during this time there is very little mention of course management systems in corporate environments.Delivery of virtual learning environments has expanded vastly in comparison to the 1950’s when college courses were broadcast through television. Historically, in 1953 the University of Houston offered the first televised college credit classes via KUHT, the first public television station in the US. Later, in 1959 the University of Chicago first produces Sunrise Semester, a series of courses delivered via broadcast television.Today, Cisco networks provide network connectivity for schools and businesses. The availability of internet online delivery anytime throughout the world enables Cisco Academy to provide global workforce training to students of any gender, race or socio-economic status. “With the United Nations Development Program, the United States Agency for International Development, and the International Telecommunication Union, Cisco has made the Academy program available to students in Least Developed Countries to help them build their country's economies.” About the Networking Academy. 1992-2007 Cisco Systems Inc. Retrieved June 1, 2007 fromhttp://www.cisco.com/web/learning/netacad/academy/About.html submitted by Tina Feleccia
