Virtual Learning Environments: the challenge of the transition to new forms of teaching

Abstract

The technological change that manifests itself in an accelerated and sustained way during the last decades has meant the development of various innovations in different spheres of human life, including education. In Mexico, the incorporation of new technologies into the teaching and learning process is a task that is seen to be increasing, and in which there are large areas of opportunity. Although for many years, the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) was conceived as a learning support strategy, today it is considered an urgent means from which the teaching and learning process is carried out. The context of the COVID-19 pandemic demanded the articulation of tools, means, skills and teaching experiences to continue the process of training students through online teaching. This activity represents a challenge in which the prevailing need for teachers to improve their teaching practice to guarantee a quality educational service has been revealed. This essay describes this scenario in which Virtual Learning Environments are used as a means for the transition to new ways of teaching and learning.