e-Learning is an alternative method of delivering and receiving education and training. It is alternative in the sense that it is quite different from the traditional, instructor led, classroom environment that we are most familiar with. The term “e-Learning” encompasses a wide range of educational experiences and practices. Instructional content may be delivered through a wide array of methods including: CD or DVD-ROM, the Internet, audio and videotape, television or satellite broadcast, video conferencing, or on an internal network (intranet). The content can include text, audio, video, animation, simulations, and Virtual Reality (VR) applications. e-Learning is student-centered, self-paced, hands-on learning. e-Learning can provide an exciting and highly effective learning experience that can go beyond the level of education and training you might experience in a classroom.

What is the E-learning ?

There may be other definitions, but I define e-learning (also called elearning or eLearning) as:

The delivery of a learning, training or education program by electronic means. E-learning involves the use of a computer or electronic device (e.g. a mobile phone) in some way to provide training, educational or learning material. (Derek Stockley 2003)
Distance education provided the base for e-learning's development. E-learning can be "on demand". It overcomes timing, attendance and travel difficulties. ^[1]

E-Learning concepts and technique

Types of E-Learning :

e-Learning is instruction that occurs when the instructor and the students are separated by time, by distance, or both. It can be divided into 2 major delivery methods:
Synchronous e-Learning or training happens in real-time with an instructor facilitating the training. Most commonly this type of learning takes place over the Internet, using a “chat room” on specialized Web Sites. Each student logs in at a specific time and can communicate directly with the instructor and with each other. Synchronous e-Learning may also be accomplished through telephone or video conferencing or through two-way live television broadcasts between instructors and students in distant classrooms.

Asynchronous e-Learning or training is e-Learning in the more conventional sense of the word. Asynchronous e-Learning is usually CD or DVD-ROM-based, or can be Intranet or Internet based. Students generally work on an interactive “self-paced” program of study. This may include access to instructors or experts through online bulletin boards, discussion groups and e-mail. Programs may also be completely self-contained with links to various reference materials in place of an instructor. Asynchronous e-Learning allows the student to learn anywhere and usually at any time, as long as they have the proper equipment.

e-Learning uses technology to enhance and expand the learning experience. These technologies are used to create and deliver individualized, comprehensive, dynamic learning content that facilitates learning, anytime and anywhere. It is an innovative approach to communicating almost any type of instructional information. e-Learning can be delivered and supported using a variety of electronic media, but is also the perfect complement to a traditional education or training program. ^[2]

Benifit of E_learning :

e-Learning has substantial benefits and offers unique opportunities for people who might otherwise have limited access to education and training. It incorporates innovative and creative approaches to instruction and provides unprecedented access to resources and information.

e-Learning is student centered. The learner is the core of any e-Learning system. Materials and activities are designed with the needs and interests of the learner in mind. Students assume control of their learning experience and use it to suit their own specific needs.
e-Learning is self-directed and self-paced. Learners control the amount of time they spend on any particular topic. This allows learners to spend additional time on difficult items before moving on or to skip material they already understand. This “individualized” approach usually allows learners to complete their education and training faster than in traditional courses.
e-Learning is interactive and hands-on. The use of a variety of multimedia in e-Learning increases student involvement and reinforces the learning experience. This leads to increased retention and a stronger grasp of the subject at hand.
e-Learning is flexible. Learning can take place anytime and anywhere, as long as the necessary equipment is accessible. The logistics and expense of face-to-face education and training can be extremely limiting when students are separated by distance. e-Learning also allows physically or otherwise challenged students to more fully participate.
e-Learning provides consistent and effective training. All of the target learners can participate simultaneously and receive the same information, reducing the variability introduced through multiple sessions in different locations.

Limtation of E-Learning :

Although e-Learning has many benefits for students and organizations alike, it also has limitations.

Computer literacy and access to equipment. Any e-Learning system involves basic equipment and a minimum level of computer knowledge in order to perform the tasks required by the system. A student that does not possess these skills, or have access to these tools, cannot succeed in an e-Learning program.
Some topics are not appropriate for e-Learning. Certain subjects that require physical exertion and practice, such as sports and public speaking, are not good candidates for e-Learning. However, e-Learning can be a useful companion to traditional education for teaching background and technical information.
Students themselves can be a limitation to e-Learning. The flexibility and student-centered nature of e-Learning requires a high level of student responsibility. A successful e-Learning student must be well organized, self-motivated, and have good time management skills. What you get out of an e-Learning program is directly related to the amount of effort you put in.

Strategies for e-Learning Success

Recent technological advances and the advent of e-Learning have dramatically altered the world of education and training. There are millions of e-Learners in the U.S. and around the world. Today’s e-Learners come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and are of all ages. Most are working people who are trying to continue their education and improve their opportunities. Still, e-Learning is quite different from traditional classroom learning and is not for everyone. Successful e-Learning students share certain qualities and abilities.

E-Learning requires motivation and self-discipline. Successful e-Learning students are able to study independently and incorporate study time into their busy lives. Students should set aside regular study time. e-Learning requires a real commitment to keep up with the flow of the process and to finish within the required period of time.
Define your goals and plan for success. Define your goals and objectives for your e-Learning experience. Understand the requirements and plan ahead so that you will know what’s expected of you and how your performance will be evaluated.
e-Learning requires good reading and writing skills. The ability to efficiently read and interpret instructions is a critical skill in e-Learning. Most activities and communications are also written, so it is important to be comfortable with your ability to express yourself through writing.
Incorporate work, life, and other educational experiences as part of the learning process. e-Learning requires the student to make inferences based on experience as well as facts. Meaningful reflection and critical analysis of information are an essential part of the learning process. Look for opportunities to apply what you have learned in your life.
Be willing and able to commit adequate time to the e-Learning process. e-Learning is a convenient way to receive education and training, but it is not easier than the traditional educational process. In fact, it often requires more time and commitment.
Have access to the necessary equipment and create some personal space. It is important that you have a place to study in a peaceful and focused manner.

To be a successful e-Learner you must believe that meaningful, high quality learning can take place without a traditional classroom. When properly designed and executed, e-Learning is a highly effective and rewarding learning environment

E-Learning

Table of Contents