In recent years, digital learning has enabled education to become more accessible, flexible and personalised. It offers new opportunities for both students and professionals who need to update their knowledge.

Thanks to technology, we can enjoy high-quality educational content without the need to be physically in a classroom, learn at our own pace, and connect with teachers from anywhere in the world something also valued by institutions like the British School of Valencia, where innovation and academic excellence go hand in hand.

In this article, we explain what digital learning is and what its advantages are.

What is digital learning?

Digital learning is an educational methodology based on the use of technological tools to facilitate teaching and learning. It is a flexible alternative that allows students to access educational materials, participate in interactive activities and communicate with tutors and fellow students through online platforms.

Within the framework of this methodology, some of the best digital learning tools are the following:

  • Online courses and MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses).
  • LMS (Learning Management System) platforms.
  • Educational applications.
  • Video conferences and webinars.
  • Multimedia content (videos, podcasts, infographics, etc).

Its main advantages include:

  • Accessibility: anyone can access the content from anywhere in the world.
  • Flexibility: the pace of learning can be adapted to the learner’s individual needs.
  • Reduced costs: the costs of transport, printed materials and site rental are eliminated.
  • Greater interaction: communication between students and teachers is facilitated through forums, chats and video calls.

Evolution of digital learning: some examples

Although it may appear to be so, digital learning is not a new concept, but rather the result of decades of technological advances and changes in the field of education. In fact, we can divide its evolution into three main phases:

  1. Learning based on digital materials

During the 1990s, online education basically consisted of the digitisation of books and documents. It was a unidirectional model where students downloaded materials, studied them autonomously and took simple exams.

  1. Creation of virtual classrooms

With the advent of LMS systems in the 2000s, digital education began to include interactive spaces where students could communicate with teachers and fellow students. From this point on, forums, chats and video conferencing became part of the learning process.

  1. Collaborative and interactive learning

These days, thanks to the integration of social networks, artificial intelligence and augmented reality, digital learning has become more flexible and dynamic. Students can now learn collaboratively, actively participating in the development of content through interactive tools.

A great example of this are platforms such as Coursera or Udemy, which allow access to courses with certificates from renowned universities and companies, or the use of simulators and educational games in vocational training.

Benefits and importance of digital learning

Here are some of the reasons why digital learning has become so important for both students and corporate training:

  1. It opens up global access to education

Digitalisation has broken down geographical barriers in education. Nowadays, anyone with an internet connection can learn from prestigious universities and training centres regardless of where they are in the world. It provides opportunities to study for millions of people who, for economic reasons or due to distance, are unable to access in-person education.

Furthermore, platforms such as Coursera, edX or Udemy have democratised knowledge, offering high-quality courses in various disciplines. Even universities such as Harvard and MIT have made programmes available to the public free of charge or at very accessible prices.

  1. It is adaptable to different learning styles

Each person learns differently. Some prefer reading, others watching videos, and others interacting with the content. Digital learning adapts to the needs of each student by providing materials in various formats, such as explanatory videos, infographics, podcasts, interactive simulations, practical assessments, and even virtual reality environments to offer immersive experiences, something especially useful in key stages like primary education. This makes the learning process much more effective and engaging.

For example, through digital simulations, a medical student can practice a surgical procedure before performing a real operation. Similarly, a graphic designer can learn new techniques through interactive tutorials.

  1. It supports inclusive education

Solutions have also been developed to enable people with visual, hearing or motor disabilities to access education without limitations.

For example, learning platforms can integrate screen readers, subtitles, audio descriptions or adapted controls to facilitate access to content. This not only promotes a more egalitarian education, but also encourages a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow.

  1. Encourages autonomy and self-training

Digital learning empowers individuals to progress at their own pace, without being dependent on a fixed timetable or the availability of the teacher. This encourages self-discipline, responsibility and time management, essential skills for professional development.

Furthermore, online learning platforms allow students to access content as often as they need to, which, in addition to improving information retention, also motivates students to be more proactive in their learning.

  1. It reduces costs and time

In the business environment, digital learning has proven to be a highly effective alternative in terms of cost and time. It can reduce training costs by up to 60% compared to traditional methods.

Additionally, the time required can be reduced by up to 40%, allowing employees to remain productive while acquiring new skills.

Students can enjoy lower costs for transport, accommodation or printed materials. They can also access high quality educational programmes at a much lower cost than face-to-face education.

  1. It facilitates the continuous updating of knowledge

With digital learning, content can be updated in real time, which is especially important in areas such as technology, digital marketing or medicine. As a result, a professional who is trained through digital learning tools will always be up to date with the latest trends and developments in their sector, making their profile more attractive in the job market.

Get to know our digital learning programme

As part of our commitment to offering quality education, at the British School of Valencia we have designed a digital learning programme adapted to the needs of the modern world. Our programme includes:

  • Intuitive LMS platform: with access to courses, materials and assessment tools.
  • A wide variety of formats: from video classes to interactive activities.
  • Personalised tutorials: to resolve any queries and help guide the learning process.
  • Official certification: recognised by educational institutions and companies.

If you are looking for a more flexible way to learn, our digital learning programme is a fantastic option for you to consider.