Advocacy | News

Ed Tech Glossary Clarifies E-Learning Terms

• By David Nagel
• 10/06/11

iNACOL, the International Association for K-12 Online Learning, has launched a publication called the Online Learning Definitions Project, a compendium of ed tech terms related to online and blended learning.

iNACOL is a non-profit advocacy and research organization that focuses on issues in K-12 virtual learning. It represents a broad spectrum of groups centered around education, including schools themselves, state and local education agencies, non-profit organizations, researchers, and various technology and resource providers.

iNACOL described the publication as the first of its kind that's attempted to provide a consistent, comprehensive set of definitions "related to online and blended learning in order to develop policy, practice, and an understanding of and within the field."

The project was three years in the making. According to iNACOL, "The initiative began with a thorough literature review of existing definitions, followed by a research survey to iNACOL members and experts to ensure the efficacy of the definitions adopted."

The Online Learning Definitions Project publication is available as a free PDF download. Hardcopies run $9.95. Additional details can be found in iNACOL's online bookstore.

About the Author

David Nagel is editorial director, education for 1105 Media's Public Sector Media Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal. A 22-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art and business publications.

He can be reached at dnagel@1105media.com. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at or follow him on Twitter at @THEJournalDave (K-12) or @CampusTechDave (higher education).