E-Learning is education and training utilizing information technology, such as computers and communication networking. Of all the various types of e-Learning, the most widespread e-Learning method is the asynchronous "Web-based Training (WBT)". Unlike conventional classroom training, it is possible to learn anytime and anywhere in most types of e-Learning.

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E-Learning Standards

For an effective, widely used e-Learning environment, standardization in various aspects of e-Learning is required. The following are a few examples of widely accepted standards and specifications.

• SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model)
  SCORM is a standard specification for WBT contents, developed by ADL (Advanced Distributed Learning) in the United States. Compliance with SCORM enables materials to run on different LMS, and to use SCOs (Sharable Content Objects) in different course structures. A certification program that certifies whether LMS and contents comply with SCORM, is run by ADL, and the internationalization of the program is being considered. SCORM Version 1.3 is currently being developed, integrating IMS Simple Sequencing Specification to define the dynamic behavior of contents accordingly to the learners' level and comprehension.
  
  
• LOM (Learning Object Metadata)
  LOM is a standard specification for metadata to define attributes of various resources (i.e., learning object (LO)), in education and training. It is the index information to search and reuse LOs. By creating a list of LOs, it is possible to classify and select LOs depending on the types of education, and to systematize LOs accordingly to a curriculum.
  
  
• QTI (Question and Test Interoperability)
  QTI is a specification for a question database for exercise and test questions. QTI specifies the question format, answer format, and grouping method for exercise questions. This standard is expected to facilitate the creation of questions for certification examinations and prep examinations, and to promote distribution of these examination questions.
  
  
• LIP (Learner Information Package)
  LIP is a specification that defines the attributes of the learners. LIP standardizes the format used in exchanging learner information between systems. The dynamic generation system for the curriculum can be constructed accordingly to each learner's learning objective and learning situation by using the learner information, including learning objective, learning history, competency, and the curriculum information described in LOM.
  
  In Japan, prototypes, complying with international standards such as SCORM 1.3 (draft), are being developed. For example, Typical LMS/Authoring Tools and Typical Collaborative Learning System were developed in 2002.

E-Learning Cycle

The process of e-Learning can be represented in the following e-Learning cycle model.

1. Skill analysis
   The learning manager analyzes the learner's present skill and skill that is set as a learning goal, and obtains the necessary material information. The manager then searches for the related material (registered for the search).
   
   
2. Material development
   The developer creates exercise questions and the material structure (table of contents) linked with explanatory pages.
   
   
3. Learning
   The learner engages in learning that is proper to the need, that is, individual learning for knowledge acquisition, or collaborative learning for workshop-type learning.
   
   
4. Evaluation
   The learner carries out exercises and takes examinations using questions designed according to the learning goal. The learning manager makes the evaluation of each learner, using results of exercises and examinations.
   
   Each phase of the cycle is related with standards described above.