E-learning
What is eLearning?
Understanding eLearning is simple. eLearning is learning utilizing
electronic technologies to access educational curriculum outside of a
traditional classroom. In most cases, it refers to a course, program or
degree delivered completely online.
There are many terms used to describe learning that is delivered online,
via the internet, ranging from Distance Education, to computerized
electronic learning, online learning, internet learning and many others. We
define eLearning as courses that are specifically delivered via the internet
to somewhere other than the classroom where the professor is teaching. It
is not a course delivered via a DVD or CD-ROM, video tape or over a
television channel. It is interactive in that you can also communicate with
your teachers, professors or other students in your class. Sometimes it is
delivered live, where you can “electronically” raise your hand and interact
in real time and sometimes it is a lecture that has been prerecorded.
There is always a teacher or professor interacting /communicating with
you and grading your participation, your assignments and your tests.
eLearning has been proven to be a successful method of training and
education is becoming a way of life for many citizens in North Carolina.
Where did it begin ?
With the introduction of the
computer and internet in the late
20th century, e-learning tools and
delivery methods expanded. The
first MAC in the 1980′s enabled
individuals to have computers in
their homes, making it easier for
them to learn about particular
subjects and develop certain skill
sets. Then, in the following
decade, virtual learning
environments began to truly thrive,
with people gaining access to a
wealth of online information and e-
learning opportunities.
By the early 90s, several
schools had been set up that
delivered courses online only,
making the most of the internet
and bringing education to people
who wouldn’t previously have been
able to attend a college due to
geographical or time constraints.
Technological advancements also
helped educational establishments
reduce the costs of distance
learning, a saving that would also
be passed on to the students –
helping bring education to a wider
audience.
In the 2000′s, businesses
began using e-learning to train
their employees. New and
experienced workers alike now
had the opportunity to improve upon their industry knowledge base and
expand their skill sets.
The benefits and downfalls of the E-
learning
Nowadays, online learning turns out to be more and more practiced. Many
traditional universities started to share their courses online for free. It
represents an easy and comfortable method to achieve knowledge in almost
every field, from law and accounting, to human sciences, such as psychology
and sociology or history.
But what are the advantages and disadvantages of online learning?
Advantages Of Online Learning
Although many people still consider traditional universities as
the best way to achieve knowledge and get a diploma, online
learning proves to be a great alternative. Students have the
chance to study in their own time and especially for free. It
represents a great way to study many fields and to boost the
level of self-motivation. Online learning is so effective because
students can finish their homework quickly, and there is more
time left for hobbies or for finding a job.
An access to all resources of a traditional course helps
participants learn wherever they are, leaving them the freedom
to choose the time for study. With basically an Internet
connection, a person can attend different courses. Among
the advantages of online learning there are the responsibility and
self-discipline of students.
Reduces travel cost and time to and from school
Self-paced learning modules allow learners to work at their own
pace
Successfully completing online or computer-based courses builds
self-knowledge and self-confidence and encourages students to
take responsibility for their learning
Disadvantages Of Online Learning
Only in a small group a person can develop properly. At school,
students learn how to make friends, be patient, get rid of
disappointment, and especially to compete. Competition between
colleagues can be very stimulating and students will only benefit
from it. Online learning cannot offer human interaction.
Another disadvantage refers to the fact that online courses
cannot cope with thousands of students that try to join
discussions. Also, online learning can be difficult, if it is meant
for disciplines that involve practice.
In conclusion, online learning should be seen as a complement
and extension of classical forms of learning. Not even the best
online course can fully replace the personal contact with a
teacher, or the human relationships that develop in a group. So,
traditional classes shouldn’t be replaced with online learning.
Students may feel isolated or miss social interaction thus the
need to understanding different learning styles and individual
learner needs.
Some courses such as traditional hamds-on courses can be
difficult to simulate
Instructor may not be always available on demand
Slow or unreliable Internet connections can be frustrating
Unmotivated learners or those with poor study habits may fall
behind
As a summary
E‐learning is not just a change of technology. It is part of a
redefinition of how we as a species transmit knowledge, skills, and
values to younger generations of workers and students. This book
makes a few predictions of how e‐learning and the functions it serves
will continue to develop.
Learners will have access to millions or billions of knowledge
modules. Some will be Web pages with simple text and graphics.
Others may include multimedia simulations. In many fields, e‐learning
has become the default way to conduct training or to provide
education. There are four secrets of e‐learning.
The first secret is to teach what learners need to learn in the way
they most naturally learn. The second secret is to define clear learning
objectives. The third secret builds on the first two. It is to focus on the
right objectives. The final secret is in the power of testing.
E-learning is becoming increasingly prominent in tertiary education.
All available evidence points toward growing enrolments and provision
albeit from a low starting point. However, after the hype of the new
economy, growing disenchantment with e-learning has replaced over-
enthusiasm.
Failures of e-learning operations have, at least temporarily,
overshadowed the prospects of widened and flexible access to tertiary
education, pedagogic innovation, and decreased cost that was once
embodied by e-learning.
Thank you for your
attention!
This project was created by :
Moraru Gabriel Danut 606-bis
Stefanica Radu Andrei 606
Works Cited or References
[Link]
elearning/
[Link]
elearning
[Link]
disadvantages-of-online-learning
[Link]
56039.ch11
