The term eLearning 2.0 is used to refer to new ways of thinking about eLearning inspired by the emergence of Web 2.0. From an eLearning 2.0 perspective, conventional e-learning systems were based on instructional packets that were delivered to students using Internet technologies. The role of the student consisted in learning from the readings and preparing assignments. Assignments were evaluated by the teacher. In contrast, the new eLearning software places increased emphasis on social learning and use of social software such as blogs, wikis, podcasts and virtual worlds.
The first 10 years of eLearning (eLearning 1.0) was focused on using the Internet to replicate the instructor-led experience. Content was designed to lead a learner through the content, providing a wide and ever-increasing set of interactions, experiences, assessments, and simulations. eLearning 2.0, by contrast (patterned after Web 2.0) is built around collaboration. eLearning 2.0 assumes that knowledge (as meaning and understanding) is socially constructed.
Learning takes place through conversations about content and grounded interaction about problems and actions. Advocates of social learning claim that one of the best ways to learn something is to teach it to others.