From what I’ve understood, e-learning is any form of training that uses a computer network for course delivery, interaction, or facilitation and a browser for learner interaction. We can learn anytime and anywhere we want and at our own pace. E-learning has many advantages as well as drawbacks.
Advantages:
- Class work can be scheduled around personal and professional work
- Reduces travel cost and time to and from school
- Learners may have the option to select learning materials that meets their level of knowledge and interest
- Learners can study wherever they have access to a computer and Internet
- Self-paced learning modules allow learners to work at their own pace
- Flexibility to join discussions in the bulletin board threaded discussion areas at any hour, or visit with classmates and instructors remotely in chat rooms
- Different learning styles are addressed and facilitation of learning occurs through varied activities
- Development of computer and Internet skills that are transferable to other facets of learner's lives
- Successfully completing online or computer-based courses builds self-knowledge and self-confidence and encourages students to take responsibility for their learning
Disadvantages:
- Unmotivated learners or those with poor study habits may fall behind
- Lack of familiar structure and routine may take getting used to
- Students may feel isolated or miss social interaction
- Instructor may not always be available on demand
- Slow or unreliable Internet connections can be frustrating
- Managing learning software can involve a learning curve
- Some courses such as traditional hands-on courses can be difficult to simulate
Despite the fact that e-learning is very advantageous, it can never replace a human instructor. But it is a good method of learning and teaching.
