A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) (also known as Learning Management System) is a set of systems or tools which allow controlled access by students to curriculum content and the facilities needed to support learning. Typically a VLE is accessed via the web (though some allow off-line working), and will contain tools for: Course registration Content management including access to external resources Discussion areas (usually both synchronous (chat) and asynchronous (email and bulletin boards) for student-student and student-tutor discussion. These can be used for both informal discussions and for more formal situations such as tutorials ? Tracking student activity(secure) Submission of assignments They frequently have tools (or links to tools) for: Assessment Access to student support Course descriptions(course) calendars They can be used both on campus and to support distance learning, and can be used to deliver whole courses or in conjunction with "traditional" delivery. A VLE will often form part of a managed learning environment (MLE) qv (which also encompasses the support and administrative systems such as student registration, timetabling, financials and MIS.

This is a set of teaching and learning tools designed to enhance and develop a student's learning experience through the involvement of the internet and computers

an environment that may be used to support a range of learning contexts, from conventional classroom delivery, to off-line, distance learning and on-line learning, through the Internet.