Definitions and Acronyms

Blended learning

Blended learning uses digital learning tools within a classroom setting where students are face-to-face with each other and their teacher. Blended Learning can use just a few of the digital tools in the provincial Learning Management System or can combine many of the tools, courses and resources available there.

Unlike e-learning classes where students are not in a traditional classroom with their teacher and classmates, blended learning occurs within the context of a face-to-face classroom.

delivering school
A school that delivers a teacher-mediated e-learning credit course to students through the provincial Learning Management System (LMS), and that has the delivering teacher on staff.

distance education
A way to provide education through packaged lessons that students complete on their own. The material has traditionally been delivered by mail, but many distance education courses now deliver their material and collect their assignments electronically. Distance education is not the same as the teacher-mediated, e-learning credit courses offered through the provincial Learning Management System (LMS).

e-learning
The use of digital technologies to support learning and teaching. A variety of learning opportunities can be offered through e-learning. For example, secondary school credit courses may be taught by teachers online, and digital learning resources may be used in all grades, from K to 12, in regular classrooms. The technology includes computer-based learning modules, videoconferencing, electronic whiteboards, digital projectors, e-mail, threaded discussions, and more.

e-Learning Ontario
A program of the Ontario Ministry of Education (and formerly known as the Ontario Knowledge Network for Learning). E-learning Ontario is dedicated to reaching Ontario students through digital learning. E-Learning Ontario is responsible for implementing the provincial e-learning strategy.

(LMS) Learning Management System
There are many different learning management systems. The provincial Learning Management System is a set of applications that is used to deliver Ministry-approved teacher-mediated e-learning credit courses and blended learning to students throughout the province. It provides a range of services to help school boards deliver e-learning, including course management, student tracking, learning activities, and communication and collaboration tools. Ontario's LMS is funded and governed by the Ministry of Education and is hosted in a central location.

(OERB) Ontario Educational Resource Bank
Ontario's storage site for digital learning resources to be used as part of the provincial e-learning strategy. The Resource Bank enables teachers to access single learning objects (such as visual aids), units of study, or remediation units. These resources may be used to support classroom learning or for credit courses delivered through the provincial Learning Management System.

(OSR) Ontario Student Record.

(PPM) Policy/Program Memorandum – a statement of policy by the Ontario Ministry of Education.

teacher-mediated credit courses
e-learning courses that are taught by a teacher to a class of students using electronic technology to communicate.