The concept of formal learning being limited to the four walls of a classroom is rapidly fading into oblivion as the world becomes a global village. E-learning is now a broadly endorsed movement — and why not? Most students would agree that getting up early for classes on weekdays is exhausting. Nothing beats the experience of receiving a virtual lecture or taking an online course from the comfort of your home.
With cutting-edge technologies gaining a strong foothold in education, learning gravitates towards being more participatory and accessible. For instance, most students gain more personalized educational experiences at their pace via homeschooling and distance learning. To make the most of the technology revolution, all educational institutions must adopt an e-learning strategy.
What is E-Learning?
E-learning, also known as electronic learning, is a process that entails imparting knowledge via technology. Understand that it is a means through which students can access information on relevant fields using varying electronic media. In educational settings, it can also refer to the content and systems used to deliver or share content.
As e-learning grows in popularity, the definition of what constitutes an e-learning platform, a learning management system, content, educational technology, to mention a few, is expanding. Its unhindered accessibility implies that people from all age groups can learn and improve their skills. Supporting e-learning models and systems include, but not limited to:
- Web-based or desktop learning software programs
- File-based individual courses
- Educational mobile apps
- Online video and audio courses
- Adaptive learning platforms
- Online assessment and co-curricular tools
While the definition of e-learning varies, it does not appear that learning outcomes are a concern. However, one drawback is the absence of a “physical connection” between the teacher and student, which influences learning processes. For this reason, online tutors must draw on their skills and experiences to deliver simple, interactive, and immersive learning.
Why is E-Learning Important?
Similar to the last two major technology advances (computing and networking), e-learning is another paradigm with significant tangible technological benefits. In many respects, the potential for e-learning is almost unlimited. Its adaptation applies to small- and large-scale education initiatives.
However, the impact of this process will be greatly reduced if tutors are not confident in how well it will help them to teach their curricula. On the other hand, it isn’t just educators who are embracing this; employers are increasingly turning to e-learning as they favor it over traditional in-classroom training.
So, what does e-learning has to offer? Let’s find out below:
- E-learning promotes increased retention. The days of students having to read large volumes and instructions are long gone. Besides, such materials contain fewer audio-visual experiences, which are an integral part of our daily lives. People absorb more information from what they see and hear. Hence, a 10-minute interactive educational video has more impact than a 1000-page book.
- It saves resources. Accessing information has never been easier and faster. For example, you can get answers to complex mathematical equations online or even hire the best essay writing service on Reddit without the hassle of fixing a mini-lesson. Best yet, its scalability caters to a wider range of audiences, compared to traditional learning.
- With e-learning comes consistency. Online educational systems and models are standardized, which means that learning and experience across all platforms is uniform, even though tutors have unique teaching styles. Similarly, mistakes are less likely to occur in such environments.
Making E-Learning More Refined Through Specific Implementations
The presence of e-learning in the educational sector steps raises the bar, making several fields that were once deemed boring interactive and fun. More learning institutions are catching up with this notable drift. If you are wondering how to get involved as well, here are some guidelines:
Pinpoint Key E-Learning Necessities
The first stage in achieving a breakthrough through e-learning is to identify areas that would require this process, particularly those that can’t be addressed effectively using traditional learning. Often, the pain points centre around cognitive flexibility. By determining what is most important for learners, an efficient e-learning model can resolve such challenges.
Identify E-Learning Obstacles
Information dissemination may be hampered by barriers. Students may be skeptical about e-learning meeting their educational needs. Since this learning method creates more flexibility, some of them may be adamant about taking responsibility for their education. In some cases, online learning modules may impede learning as well. Hence, an instructor must identify and resolve potential e-learning challenges before providing tutorship.
Select Ideal Compatible Training Programs
Not all training courses would fly on e-learning platforms. Some are best delivered via on-site individualized or group training sessions, with virtual learning serving as a secondary support system. A helpful tip for tutors is to provide both offline and online material or platforms, weigh and compare students’ performances, and devise the most ideal educational delivery solution.
Create More Interactive Learning Materials
The successful implementation of e-learning in the educational sector heavily depends on the quality of learning material, the effectiveness of the information delivery solution deployed, and the feedback mechanism put in place.
Of course, both tutors and students have unique roles to play as well. On the former’s part, training modules and systems must be interactive and engaging, while the latter must remain committed to learning the materials provided.
In Conclusion
Although e-learning has its drawbacks, it offers the potential to increase access to information and technologies. In recent years, millions of non-literate adults and children worldwide have been introduced to computer literacy through e-learning courses. As this educational process becomes increasingly prevalent, researchers must develop the next generation of e-learning interventions that can be applied to a wider range of populations and professions.
