Sometimes we use words as machetes, when scalpels are needed. Several recent conversations I've been involved in have highlighted the ambiguity of words...and the degree to which our own assumptions of what a word means impacts our ability to communicate. We're speaking, using similar words...but meaning very different things.
This is obviously a concern. Terms like elearning, content management, knowledge management, collaboration, community, learning objects, repository, etc. need clear definitions. Sometimes it's misunderstanding...sometimes it's not understanding. Hundreds/thousands of colors/shades are used to create a picture...and each is distinct, but together they create the whole. In elearning, we haven't even named and agreed on the colors to use...
Some processes are similar (i.e. KM and elearning) and they are then assumed to be the same thing...even though their ends are unique (or at least the application of the "end" is unique). Think of VHS and DVD...the process of watching each is the same...however, DVD has far greater ability for storage, review, additional footage. Seemingly small difference...with big application.
Convergence is also a factor...we seem obsessed with trying to get everything to converge and work together. By trying to assimilate, we obscure differences.
What does this mean? When selling/promoting/discussing elearning patience is needed to first ensure the same language is being spoken. From my experience, it most often isn't.
Posted by gsiemens at January 16, 2003 10:02 PM