While working with a new client something very interesting was brought to my attention. The foundation for e-learning was built far before the technology was even available. In 1969 author Edgar Dale presented what is called the cone of learning which is a visual representation of how we retain information. The basic principle of the Cone of Learning is, "We tend to remember our level of involvement." We only comprehend 10-50% of what we are taught through passive learning mediums like reading, lecture or even watching a movie.

On the other hand active learning methods such as participating in discussion, simulation of real experience and of course doing the real thing are the most effective ways to actually comprehend something over a significant period of time. These activities achieve comprehension rates up to 90% over a two week period. The corporate training world does not allow us to put all of our employees through "the real thing."

There are a number of legitimate reasons for this, cost and safety are the first that come to mind. However, if you look right above doing the real thing on the cone you will find that the next best thing is simulation of real experience, which is where expertly developed e-learning fits the bill. I have said it before, simulation based training where the user has to make consequence based choices is by far the most effective way to teach people something short of doing it themselves. You could argue that for the purpose of corporate training it is better because in the simulation mistakes are made in a virtual environment rather that in the real world where it can cost companies millions of dollars in losses and fines.

The principles have been the same for 40 years, what has changed is the ability to cost effectively distribute these principles to the masses.