What is ODFL?

Online learning is typically considered “a form of distance education where the primary delivery mechanism is via the internet” (Bates, 2008). Online learning can involve a learning management system like Moodle or be offered through open tools like WordPress or a wiki. Online courses can be completely asynchronous, where the instructor and students are not online at the same time, or can include synchronous options like using Zoom for real-time class meetings.
Usually, when using terms such as online learning and distance education, we are trying to describe a very dynamic and fast changing phenomenon, and the lexicon often struggles to keep up with the reality of what is happening.
Dr. Tony Bates, specialising in training in the planning and management of online learning and distance education, describes key concepts in ODFL as stated below.