Why Is Streaming Essential For Elearning
Before video was widespread, eLearning focused mainly on traditional forms of instruction (reading and testing).
However, video streaming app development have taken over as primary forms of engagement with their user bases; some even use them exclusively! Lets look at two workflows utilized by many services and their focus, depending on where their focus lies.
On-Demand (Vod)
- This format of online education can be found both academically and within companies workflows. Users can access their desired content whenever and wherever it suits them best.
- Content libraries typically store large files that require hosting services to host.
- Platforms, LMS SaaS providers, and streaming companies may facilitate all or parts of a workflow process; alternatives include DIY video solutions.
Live-Streamed (Live)
- Zoom/Webex are utilized for streaming events directly to viewers without 2-way communications (such as those found with most meeting platforms. Zoom Webex).
- A reliable Internet connection between its source and destination must exist to keep the video moving smoothly.
- Streaming companies and LMS SaaS solutions offer comprehensive workflow support.
Experience is of utmost importance in online learning platforms, even though streaming video may be their central element.
Why Quality Streaming Is Important
As mentioned, quality of experience (QoE) is one way of measuring this aspect of an eLearning platforms user experience.
QoE can be determined by several factors, including users interacting with content using applications or simply watching when content requests come through. You must ensure the streaming experience is perfect in light of growing competition within e-learning marketing; bad experiences may result in decreased users and negative reviews about your service if left unaddressed; therefore, conducting consistent testing and analysis to keep an eye on user responses is critical!
- Player Performance
- Video Quality
- Stream Errors
How To Optimize Your Streaming Experience
As part of your eLearning design, there are multiple factors you must take into consideration when developing an eLearning course.
While this blog primarily addresses quality of experience (QoE), other factors could also help enhance streaming performance.
Options For Encoding
Consideration must be given to the cost, effort, and quality provided by tools used for video encoding. There are various commercial and open-source offerings for such software encoding; an LMS/LXP will likely already contain everything needed to set it up efficiently.
Open-source software may be free, but that doesnt make it any cheaper, easier, or superior in any other respects. In order to effectively deploy it, you will have to develop it yourself; otherwise, it can still be useful but may only cover a specific number of computers at any given development time.
Commercial options provide more support to video app developers and make deployment simpler for mobile app developers with well-documented APIs. There may be an associated price; you should evaluate each service based on its capabilities, existing content library location, and purpose before choosing.
Consider an online video-on-demand (VOD) library as an example; your encoding requirements could be significant and require multiple machines to complete and deliver its content quickly to its target users.
With some services using parallel encoding techniques, this task may be completed faster! Commercial services provide this core feature, where multiple machines will use individual pieces to encode files before stitching them back together upon completing their task. Open source alternatives tend to be costly because you must rent or own hardware such as Amazon Web Services and Azure for this process to occur successfully.
Encoding algorithms and the ability to encode per title or in three passes are two options that can help optimize workflow by streamlining video for content type while maintaining or improving quality - significantly improving QoE, as without these optimizations, viewers would typically experience buffering or reduced quality in areas of lower connectivity.
Digital Rights Management & Content Protection
Digital Rights Management (DRM) systems are used to secure intellectual property within content. To prevent piracy and ensure only those authorized can view your material, eLearning organizations need to integrate token encryption or Digital Rights Management systems (DRMs) into streaming workflows to prevent access by anyone not authorized.
By configuring them accordingly, they can:
- Limit the number of devices that can access content
- Limit the number of times an individual can view a content
- Playback offline is enabled (depending on the Players capabilities).
- You can control how your content is interacted with by users.
Your packager and Player should support all significant Digital Rights Management (DRMs). A device, OS, and browser compatibility play an integral part in these DRM implementations, with Apple, Android, and Microsoft each possessing DRM formats unique to themselves - here is how they should fit into your workflow:
- Apple Fairplay
- Google Widevine
- Microsoft PlayReady
Modular Player And Offline Playback
Load time and Player are integral components as part of your quality-of-experience evaluation for your eLearning applications.
Deploying only whats necessary makes an enormous difference; commercial and open source players provide various choices depending on your requirements, devices supported, and the "heaviness" or size required of downloads as well as playback times are also crucial considerations; monolithic players require you to load all their pieces even though not utilized by your workflow development process.
Modular players offer an ideal solution to this dilemma by giving you control over which APIs you wish to utilize and not forcing you to add extra code - this makes the Player lighter, reduces load times by up to 40%, and improves user QoE.
Our modular Player has proven itself, with many companies seeing load times drop up to 40% and QoE improve.
Offline playback of videos is another crucial feature that defines an ideal player experience, closely tied to DRM, as discussed previously.
A user must be able to download and watch a video safely within an application without access to its source files; not all video players offer this capability, which allows learning platforms to differentiate themselves by offering a mobile on-the-go experience.
Branding the Player
Enhance the user experience on an app through colors, logos, and button sizes that suit you best. Even minor customization can make a noticeable impactful statement about our Players mission and value proposition to audiences worldwide.
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Elearning Business Models
As discussed previously, streaming workflow is critical in creating the ideal streaming experience. But another significant aspect is how users want to engage with content - here are a few ways eLearning platforms make their courses accessible:
SVOD
Subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) provides users access to an expansive content library. By including subscription benefits or providing exclusive material, SVOD ensures a steady monthly revenue flow and maintains steady monthly margins.
Avoid
After making payment, users can access their course for an unlimited or limited period by choosing their favorite courses and creating their own tailored learning experience.
Track what courses are popular so that your offerings align perfectly with whats popular among your target market.
Avod (Advertising-Supported)
Online ads offer you a way to offer content free of charge while reaching more viewers. Users must view demand videos featuring embedded advertisements.
Sometimes, these become intrusive enough that users abandon learning platforms altogether.
Why Video Streaming Is The Future Of Education In 2023
Video Platform For Education
As the COVID-19 pandemic spread, many educators embraced online classroom systems. Since 2016, video conferencing rooms and platforms that provide live-streaming education have rapidly taken hold.
The global online learning market generated 46.67 billion dollars worldwide in 2016 alone! By April 2020, 98% of educational establishments will have adopted video-based educational platforms, while 180 Million will have taken Massive Open Online Courses by that date; 41% of students prefer online to classroom education, while 90% use eLearning platforms for employee training purposes - these factors make online education the future! This article will demonstrate why online education will dominate in 2022!
10 Reasons Why Online Video Streaming Is The Future
1. Comparing Traditional Education To Cost-Effective Education
Online learning platforms typically offer two payment models for their courses: pay-per-class or installments. Due to platform competition, many offer discounts and scholarships, which help save students money on studying materials and transportation expenses.
2. Flexible Schedules Are Available.
As online classes can be scheduled according to both teachers and students convenience, online class times can be tailored specifically for both parties involved - giving both parties more freedom in managing work/study balance and work/life integration for employees who participate in formal training programs.
3. Easy To Access
There are just two requirements to access online education platforms - a device and internet access. Learning can quickly happen while on the move; students can study anytime they like - be it complete-time work, traveling abroad, or studying full-time!
4. Learn More With Our Improved Experience
Creating an educational video platform for your students to learn at their own pace allows for personalized education without setting aside specific times each day for live classes; they can enjoy watching recorded videos without feeling pressured to keep up.
5. Students Can Customize The Learning Experience.
video streaming and conferencing mobile app development operates under multiple models, from traditional classroom settings with one teacher for many students, small-group training with a trainer, and individual teaching videos that enable learning at their own pace to individual teaching and recorded videos that allow learners to progress at their speed.
Students can select which model best meets their learning experience needs to maximize personalized education experiences.
6. After Covid-19, The Demand For Online Video Education Platforms Has Increased.
As our world has become more digitalized following COVID-19s outbreak, the demand for video platforms has skyrocketed as more individuals rely on remote education models like eLearning to access quality remote education services.
Globally, the industry generated $101 Billion in 2019, projected to hit $360 billion by 2026.
7. Educational Video Streaming Services Offer A Wide Variety Of Programs
Virtually all offline trainers and institutes now offer online training classes; experts from different industries also offer virtual classes via various media on the Internet.
Virtual classes cover various subjects, skills, and arts for people of various interests and ages to participate in virtual environments - something suitable to everyones interests can be found among the multitude of trainers and institutions offering these virtual lessons!
8. Online Video Education Platforms Have Higher Retention Rates.
Comparing online video platforms with classroom training at traditional universities, online video platforms have an increased retention rate due to reduced financial burden and virtual access.
Students can select among several virtual learning models such as recorded videos, which remain available forever; support groups designed to address any queries after using skills learned online courses; or one-to-one coaching models.
9. High-Quality Interaction
Teachers and trainers may implement numerous learning methodologies and select an ideal number of students for any particular class, which allows the teacher to give more focused attention to each of them compared with an overcrowded environment.
10. Students Can Learn At Their Own Pace.
Students can select from online education models, including classroom, live or prerecorded sessions. Hackathons offer students who want to quickly grasp a subject an excellent learning opportunity: each class additional features a practical assignment that provides hands-on experience as they continue their studies; students may access prerecorded high-quality videos at their convenience to maximize personal progress at their own pace.
Also Read: Android app development for Video Streaming Platform
The Future Of Elearning - Emerging Trends And Technologies To Watch
This article presents emerging technologies and trends to revolutionize eLearning, such as Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality Microlearning, Mobile learning, Game-based social collaboration, and Gamification.
ELearning has come a long way since its early days of text-heavy online courses. Learners now enjoy accessing interactive multimedia content across various devices and platforms; in time, we may witness numerous technologies or trends that change how we learn online.
Emerging Elearning Trends To Keep An Eye On
Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (ML) technologies have already made waves in eLearning and look set to continue transforming over the coming years.
AI tools allow learners to receive real-time feedback, personalized course recommendations, and additional support; machine learning algorithms help identify knowledge gaps while tailoring experiences based on individual learners.
Virtual And Augmented Reality
Virtual and Augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies will transform online education. By allowing learners to practice real-life skills in a safe, controlled environment - such as medical students using VR for simulation of complex surgical procedures while engineering students using AR for visualizing 3-dimensional models - VR and AR technologies will revolutionize eLearning as we know it today.
Microlearning And Mobile Learning
Two trends have garnered significant traction within the eLearning industry: microlearning and mobile learning. Microlearning involves breaking streaming content down into easily digestible pieces.
At the same time, mobile learning enables accessing learning materials on smartphones or tablets while on the move. Both trends will continue to gain prominence as attention spans decrease and learners become more mobile.
Gamification And Game-Based Learning
Gamification and game-based learning offers educators a way to accelerate learning using game design principles.
By adding elements like points, badges, and leaderboards into courses, educators can motivate learners to achieve and complete their goals. By employing games as learning mediums instead, game-based learning takes it one step further. It is beneficial when imparting soft skills or complex concepts.
Social Learning And Collaboration
Social learning and collaboration have become more integral parts of online education. By creating virtual learning communities, educators can encourage their students to share knowledge and expertise and collaborate in learning from one another.
This method is beneficial when developing soft skills such as communication or leadership abilities.
Also Read: Create a Live Video Streaming App: Features, Tech Stack, Costs, & Tips
Emerging Trends In Elearning: Technology Enhancements For Online Events
1. Flexibility
Video streaming app development company allows participants to participate in webinars and conferences from any location with internet access, saving both time and money by not traveling physically to an event venue; furthermore, they may attend events they might otherwise miss.
2. Accessibility
Online events are more accessible for people with disabilities when they offer must-have features such as closed captioning and compatibility with screen readers or assistive technologies and devices such as closed captioning.
3. Interactivity
ELearnings interactive capabilities make webinars even more effective and engaging, enabling participants to join the group discussion, ask questions in real-time, or take part in polls as soon as they appear on screen.
4. Record-Keeping
Participants of online events can easily record and archive them for later review. This key feature is convenient if events involve complex or technical materials.
5. Cost-Effectiveness
E-learning offers an excellent alternative to in-person training as it doesnt necessitate travel costs or venue rentals; additional savings include reduced venue rental costs and no venue rental expenses or costs associated with traditional events.
Overall, eLearning improves both quality and access for webinars and online conferences, giving participants more remarkable ability to participate in learning while building collaboration networks.
Why High-Speed Connection Is Important For Elearning
Fast internet connectivity is central to eLearning, providing learners access to rich multimedia content, participating in online discussions, and collaborating in real-time with classmates and instructors.
High-speed Internet allows learners to stream high-quality audio and video, participate in virtual classrooms, and access cloud resources. However, many rural and remote learners need more reliable access. Remote or rural learners often need more learning opportunities and barriers to online education, creating significant impediments to accessing high-speed Internet connectivity for eLearning courses.
Governments, educational institutions, and service providers must collaborate as this trend becomes more widely practiced to ensure all students benefit from its growth.
Online Learning Brings Opportunities
Online learning in India offers an alternative to the traditional educational model; it must only be achieved with proper planning and execution by government authorities.
Many educationists consider online education the optimal method for future learners due to all its possibilities; further, its implementation could combat pandemic issues facing current education systems.
- The world is a classroom for students who can access learning resources
- Virtual classrooms are a great way to impart quality education and avoid the risk of COVID-19 spreading, which is extremely important in the current climate.
- Online learning enables rural area students to circumvent costly travel costs to attend high-quality institutions within or abroad; to do this successfully, they would require access to high-speed Internet service and educational technology suitable for online education.
Benefits Of Live Video Streaming For Education And Training
Enhancing Interactivity And Engagement:
Live video streaming for educational purposes enables real-time communication between instructors and learners, creating two-way dialogue.
This facilitates two-way interaction, increasing learner engagement while encouraging active learning as students actively participate in learning processes.
Flexibility And Accessibility:
Live video streaming makes education and training accessible to a broader audience, eliminating geographical restrictions while offering greater scheduling flexibility; learners can now attend sessions from anywhere around the globe! In addition, live streams can be watched whenever convenient - helping individuals who may otherwise struggle attending physical classes meet all their learning objectives while meeting any restrictions preventing in-person attendance.
Time And Cost Efficiency:
Video streaming for education provides a significant cost reduction compared to traditional training and education methods, saving both instructors and their students both money and time while taking part from home or the office remotely.
Livestreaming enables participants to learn without the inconvenience or commute of traditional methods; they can learn comfortably in their homes or offices!
Expanding Reach And Scaling Up Education:
Live video streaming enables educational institutions to reach more learners by eliminating the requirement that only limited participants attend each session, thus expanding reach, offering courses to more learners, increasing revenue and impact.
Multimedia Delivery And Enhanced Content:
Live video streaming enables the integration of multimedia elements in educational content. Instructors sharing slides, videos and visual aids in real time enhances delivery of educational material - creating an effective, engaging learning experience for learners.
This multimedia approach may make educational material even more memorable!
Analysis And Assessment:
Many video streaming app developer provide analytics and assessment tools, enabling instructors to keep an eye on learner engagement, performance, participation during live sessions.
Such analytics provide instructors with invaluable insight into learner progression while tailoring instruction accordingly and pinpointing areas for improvement.
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Conclusion
Future prospects of eLearning look promising and are extremely encouraging. The landscape will become increasingly interactive and personalized as more learners make use of AI/VR/AR learning technologies, microlearning approaches, gamification techniques and social collaboration for collaborative education purposes.
These trends are likely to gain popularity as mobile technology makes its mark and learners have shorter attention spans - this trend shaping the future of training and education alike.
Online learning and teaching have proven that education is for everyone. Since COVID-19s pandemic hit, people of all ages have invested their time learning new skills or subjects they were previously unaware of - including choosing virtual class/online learning models which work for them best and selecting an interest/situation evaluation before choosing their ideal virtual class / online learning model suited for them personally.
While COVID-19 forced us all to adapt to online education quickly, this trend of virtual classes and education will likely only continue growing exponentially going forward as predictions show its the future of education!
