The world of digital learning is full of technical terms and abbreviations that you should know. Get a quick overview now – with the help of 1-sentence definitions!
Short and Clear: Definitions around digital learning
Digital learning is no longer just a trend, but a fixed part of modern continuing education. However, terms are often confused or used synonymously, even though they describe different concepts. A clear understanding of terms helps you to plan learning offerings strategically, select appropriate tools, and explain digital learning formats clearly to clients or employees.
Asynchronous Learning
Blended Learning
E-Learning
Gamification
Learning on Demand
LMS
Microlearning
MOOC
WBT
Webinar
Asynchronous Learning
Definition: Asynchronous means occurring at different times, meaning that communication between learner and trainer takes place with a delay.
More about synchronous vs. asynchronous learning
Blended Learning
Definition: Blended learning is a method where different types of learning merge – in practice often combining traditional in-person sessions with an accompanying online course.
More about blended learning in practice
E-Learning
Definition: E-learning is an umbrella term for all learning in digital form, utilizing various methods.
More about methods in e-learning
Gamification
Definition: Gamification means the use of game principles and utilizes our natural play instinct for more successful learning – for children as well as adults.
More about gamification in continuing education
Learning on Demand
Definition: Learning on demand means learning on request: content is available exactly when the learner needs it.
More about the trend of learning on demand
LMS
Definition: LMS means Learning Management System and refers to a digital learning platform for managing e-learnings.
More about LMS and the subforms LCMS and LXP
Microlearning
Definition: Microlearning means learning in small doses and is primarily used as a method in e-learning.
More about examples in microlearning
MOOC
Definition: MOOC stands for Massive Open Online Course and denotes digital courses (online) with very large participant numbers (massive), which are freely available (open).
More about the use of MOOCs
WBT
Definition: WBT stands for Web-Based Training and is an older term for all learning methods where content is accessed via the internet.
More about the difference between WBT and blended learning
Webinar
Definition: A webinar is a web seminar that connects the formats live and online: a seminar that takes place at a specific time in a specific digital location.
Conclusion
Digital learning does not start with tools, but with a clear understanding of terms.
Those who can clearly categorize the most important concepts such as e-learning, blended learning, microlearning, or LMS make better decisions when planning, implementing, and further developing learning offerings.
Especially in a corporate context, clarity is crucial: It facilitates communication with executives, IT departments, and trainers and prevents misunderstandings when selecting learning platforms or methods.
This glossary is therefore not an end in itself, but a foundation. Because the clearer the language around digital learning, the more effective the practice will be.
Updated on 03/03/2026
