Digital Learning X: Summary

To conclude this introduction to my thoughts on the topic of “Digital Learning,” I’d like to summarize the key points:

1. Due to the extensive and cost-effective ability of computers to store, process, retrieve, and display data, digital learning materials are superior to analog ones in certain cases—particularly when it comes to delivering relatively simple, repetitive, or niche knowledge.

2. In the realm of educational software, specialization is generally better than openness. Anki is a prime example of an open system: it’s free, available on all platforms, but it doesn’t provide learning material suited to any particular domain.

   (One should remember, though, that nothing comes truly “free.” Even a free program like Anki requires development and maintenance.)

3. A specialized learning application must provide content created by experts in the relevant domain, optimally support the user’s learning process (through interactivity and multisensory design), offer clear feedback on user input, and still be available on all major operating systems.