What is eLearning? A simple guide for modern businesses

Emma Gillam
Oct 20
3 min read

I've spent a lot of time over the last two months attending networking events, both online and face-to-face, pitching our company and meeting new clients. Have you ever tried to explain what you do for a living and been met with a polite smile and confused nod? I have....

Even after more than a decade of working in training development and learning design, I still meet people who ask: "What do you mean by eLearning?"

Depending on where you've worked, you might have heard it called all sorts of things...digital learning, self-paced learning, online training, interactive modules, or even microlearning.

The truth is, they are all talking about the same thing.

So, what is eLearning??

In simple terms, eLearning means any form of learning delivered using digital technology (not live remote learning sessions delivered via Teams or Zoom by a tutor).

It could be a short interactive module about customer service, a video-led induction course for new workers or a full , complex compliance course rolled out for hundreds of staff across a corporation.

When it's at its very best, eLearning combines visuals, storytelling, fun assessments and interactive activities to create memorable, long-lasting learning experiences.

The concept isn't new.

Large organisations and universities have used digital training tools for a long time. But it was during the pandemic that eLearning really shifted into the mainstream.

Business, training providers, schools - pretty much everyone - had to adapt almost overnight to remote work. Training HAD to keep up. Classroom sessions, paper handbooks, and face-to-face inductions were suddenly off the table. This is where eLearning really proved it's value.

According to eLearning industry, global demand for online learning grew by over 900% during the pandemic! and it's continued to rise ever since. It has now become a permanent, practical part of how we learn at work.

Why eLearning works!

Now of course I would tell you that eLearning works - I run a custom eLearning development company - but I truly believe it! It isn't just convenient, it can be so effective when done well.

Let's break down why.

Accessibility & flexibility: Learners can complete training anytime, anywhere and on any device. The content can be adapted for different learning needs on the spot. (Something that was much trickier with older resources and ways of learning.)

Consistency: A boring word but so important! Everyone gets the same high-quality content - not matter who's delivering it or when.

High engagement: Interactive design, use of relevant scenarios and video elements keep people involved.

Cost-effective: The very act that knowledge retention is higher with eLearning means there's less re-training, refreshers or face-to-face support. There's no need for travel, printed materials or venue hire.

Let's talk about that last one a little more. One of the biggest myths I have heard is that eLearning is only for large organisations with big budgets. But that's changing - fast. In fact we at Emblem are trying to change the narrative ourselves.

Yes....if you want large, complex courses built that need to slot seamlessly into large Learner Management Systems in 4 languages....it's going to cost you.

BUT...if you want a branded, digital training module for staff on customer service....it won't. We believe every business, no matter its size, deserves access to high-quality branded eLearning that feels like them.

The benefits aren't just financial. Digital learning can:

Save valuable time for managers and trainers
Improve induction and onboarding consistency
Support compliance requirements
Strengthen team culture and staff retention

eLearning is just learning, done better

eLearning isn't about replacing people. It's about enhancing the learning experience and supporting vital face-to-face training.

Whether you call it digital learning, online training or something else entirely, the goal is the same...make learning more accessible, engaging and effective.