This article is based on the doctoral research conducted at the University of Minho in Education with specialization in Educational Technology, the research presents the technical and pedagogical aspects of e-learning, b-learning, m-learning and the new trend for new platforms as MOOCs. The terminology of the word e-learning is firstly discussed, as well as its respective definitions and concepts. The main cornerstones in the development of e-learning as a teaching method are presented, which are then extended to the areas of b-learning and m-learning. We describe the historical aspects and the generations which arose from Distance Education. Furthermore, the technical and pedagogical approaches to e-learning are related. A table is subsequently presented, displaying the advantages and challenges of the e-learning practice. Finally, the e-learning system is analysed, together with new platform trends, namely the Massive Open Online Courses.

Keywords

b-learning · e-learning · m-learning · MOOC