3. INTRODUCTION
A learning system based on formalised teaching but with the
help of electronic resources is known as E-learning. While teaching can be based
in or out of the classrooms, the use of computers and the Internet forms the
major component of E-learning. The purpose of e-learning is to allow people
to learn for personal accomplishment or to earn a professional degree, without
physically attending a traditional university or academic setting. While teaching
can be based in or out of the classrooms, the use of computers and the Internet
forms the major component of E-learning. E-Learning enables the learners to
learn anytime and anywhere. It enables the development of perfect learning
content through the application of sound instructional design principles to
perfectly analyze the basic requirements of learning as well as learning
objectives. There are two categories of eLearning:
1. Synchronous
2. Asynchronous
4. CONTENT
A learning systembased on formalised teaching but with
the help of electronic resources is known as E-learning. While teaching can be
based in or out of the classrooms, theuseof computers and the Internetforms
the major componentof E-learning. E-learning can also be termed as a network
enabled transfer of skills and knowledge, and the delivery of education is made to
a large number of recipients at the same or differenttimes. Earlier, it was not
accepted wholeheartedly as it was assumed that this systemlacked the human
element requird in learning .
However, with the rapid progress in technology and the advancement in learning
systems, it is now embraced by the masses. The introduction of computers was
the basis of this revolution and with the passage of time, as we get hooked to
smartphones, tablets, etc, these devices now have an importance place in the
classrooms for learning. Books are gradually getting replaced by electronic
educational materials like optical discs or pen drives. Knowledge can also be
shared via the Internet, which is accessible 24/7, anywhere, anytime
E-learning has proved to be the best means in the corporate sector,
especially when training programs are conducted by MNCs for professionals
across the globe and employees are able to acquire important skills while sitting
in a board room, or by having seminars, which are conducted for employees of
5. the same or the different organizations under one roof. The schools which use E-
learning technologies are a step ahead of those which still have the traditional
approachtowardslearning.
It is equally important to take forward the concept of non-electronic teaching
with the help of books and lectures, but the importance and effectiveness of
technology-based learning cannot be taken lightly or ignored completely. It is
believed that the human brain can easily remember and relate to what is seen
and heard via moving pictures or videos. It has also been found that visuals, apart
from holding the attention of the student, are also retained by the brain for
longer periods. Various sectors, including agriculture, medicine, education,
services, business, and government setups are adapting to the concept of E-
learning which helps in the progress of a nation.
ADVANTAGES OF E-LEARNING
Fromthe learner point of view:
On-demandavailability: Can be taken at any time and any place
Self-paced:Can be taken in one go or in parts; also any parts that are not
understood can be run again & again
Increasedknowledge retentionandengagement: If thecourseis
designed in an interactive way, it will engage and help learners retain
information
Confidence: that refresher or quick referencematerials are available thus
reduces burden of responsibility of mastery.
6. DISADVANTAGES OF E-LEARNING
Technology dependent: Delivery of eLearning courses depends on
technology. Inadequacy of required infrastructuresuch as computers,
high internet bandwidth, and also lack of relevant technical skills in
learners would greatly hamper success of an eLearning course.
Lack of motivation: Learners may not be motivated to take a coursesince
they are in isolation and have the flexibility. It requires a high-level of
self-discipline and self-motivation fromlearners.
Lack of help/training support: dueto absence of an instructor who can
solvelearners’ queries, explain in detail topics that are not understood,
analyzelearners' performanceand providedetailed feedback
Lack of human touch: since there is no direct interaction with instructor
or fellow learners during the learning process
Inflexible:It’s notpossibleto alter the coursein real time based on
learners’ reactions and comfort
Start-upcost: involved in designing, developing and deploying a course
TYPES OF E-LEARNING
1.Synchronous E-learning
set time (phone/Internet classroom sessions)
Synchronous eLearning is real-time learning. In synchronous learning, the
learners and the teacher are online and interact at the same time from different
7. locations. They deliver and receive the learning resources via mobile, video
conference, Internet or chat. In this type of learning the participants can share
their ideas during the session and interact with each other and they get detailed
queries and solutions. Synchronous eLearning is gaining popularity because of
improved technology and Internet bandwidth capabilities.
Learning from the sources of:
Virtual Classroom
Audio and Video Conferencing
Chat
Webinars
Application Sharing
Messaging instantly
2. Asynchronous E-learning
student directed, self-paced learning
Asynchronous eLearning is pause-and-resume kind of learning. In this type of
eLearning the learner and the teacher cannot be online at same time.
Asynchronous eLearning may use technologies such as email, blogs, discussion
forums, eBook’s CDs, DVDs, etc. Learners may learn at any time, download
documents, and chat with teachers & also with co-learners. In fact, many
learners prefer asynchronous instead of synchronous learning because learners
can take online courses to learn at their preferable time by not effecting their
daily commitments.
Learning from the sources of
Self-paced online courses
8. Discussion forums & groups
Message boards
CONCLUSION
A learning system based on formalised teaching but with the
help of electronic resources is known as E-learning. While teaching can be based
in or out of the classrooms, the use of computers and the Internet forms the
major component of E-learning. . Knowledge can also be shared via the Internet,
which is accessible 24/7, anywhere, anytime. Synchronous eLearning is real-time
learning. In synchronous learning, the learners and the teacher are online and
interact at the same time from different locations. Asynchronous eLearning is
pause-and-resume kind of learning. In this type of eLearning the learner and the
teacher cannot be online at same time.
