When we started moving our lives from the real world to digital, we knew the disadvantages, but the biggest benefit of online processes was flexibility.
E-learning is probably one of the best things we have in a digital environment that facilitates learning without boundaries. Over the years, learning platforms have gained widespread popularity as effective means for gaining new skills and knowledge. Thanks to technological advancements, e-learning has become more inclusive, offering a great opportunity for students from different geographical and cultural backgrounds to receive high-quality education.
Through e-learning, you can access educational resources and participate in interactive learning experiences from the comfort of your home, proceed at your own pace, and engage in learning activities at the desired time. Sounds like an ideal plan, right? Let’s explore the topic of e-learning in depth.
What is e-Learning?
E-learning, also known as online learning or electronic learning, involves gaining knowledge through electronic technologies and media. In other words, it is learning that is enabled electronically.Typically conducted through the Internet, this method allows students to access educational materials anytime and anywhere. In most cases, e-learning is in the form of online courses, degrees, programs, or other types of online collaborative learning.
The Brief History of e-Learning
The term “e-learning” was first used in a professional context by Elliot Masie during his TechLearn Conference in 1999. In addition, the roots of practicing online education can be traced back to the University of Illinois in 1960. This is where the Intranet was established, enabling students to access course materials and even listen to lecture recordings via computer terminals.
By the mid-1980s, college libraries adopted an identical approach. Specifically, in 1980, the Electronic University Network presented the first online courses using DOS and Commodore 64 computers. In this way, students could access courses using telephones and proprietary software. Later, in the early 1990s, the Open University in the United Kingdom introduced original resource-based online learning courses in Europe.
Types of eLearning
Believe it or not, e-learning is extremely flexible, giving you the option to choose a type that best matches your learning styles and preferences.
Asynchronous learning
Imagine learning at your own pace, on your own schedule. Asynchronous e-learning is about flexibility and control over the learning process.
Self-paced learning: No more rigid schedules! You can access and complete coursework whenever it suits you best, fitting learning into your busy life.
Independent exploration: Asynchronous materials like video lectures, interactive modules, and online resources allow you to learn independently and revisit learning material as needed.
Discussion forums: Even though learning happens independently, asynchronous platforms often have discussion forums where you can connect with peers and instructors, fostering a sense of community. Already popular discussion forums are now repurposed with the Saima note-taking feature, where learners can make notes, share with peers online, or save them for further discussions.
Synchronous Learning
Synchronous e-learning offers a more structured and interactive experience, bringing learners together virtually in real time.
Live sessions: Imagine attending online classes where you can interact with instructors and fellow learners through virtual classrooms, video conferencing, or webinars.
Real-time discussions: Ask questions, share insights, and participate in discussions just like in a traditional classroom setting, fostering a dynamic learning experience. Again, Saima’s note-taking feature is one such tool to keep your peers engaged in learning with you.
Collaborative activities: Synchronous platforms often enable group projects, presentations, and brainstorming sessions, promoting teamwork and communication skills.
E-Learning Terminology: A Handy Glossary
Now that you know the types of e-learning, explore some of the common e-learning terminology.
Hybrid Learning: This blends the best of both worlds – asynchronous materials for independent learning combined with synchronous sessions for live interaction and collaboration.
Online Learning: A broad term encompassing all forms of learning over the Internet, including asynchronous, synchronous, and hybrid approaches.
Interactive e-learning: This learning experience actively engages participants through games, simulations, quizzes, and other activities that promote knowledge retention.
Microlearning: Bite-sized learning modules focused on specific skills or concepts. These short learning materials are easily digestible and can be completed quickly, making them ideal for busy schedules.
Webinars: Live online seminars or presentations typically delivered by industry experts. Webinars offer a convenient way to gain insights and knowledge on specialized topics.
How e-Learning Revolutionizes Education?
E-learning revolutionizes education by breaking geographical barriers and reinforcing accessibility. Through online platforms, learners can access a wide range of educational resources virtually from any corner of the world. This, in turn, democratizes education, which leads to the adoption of various learning styles and schedules.
What is more, e-learning introduces interactive and multimedia elements that enhance engagement among learners. In this way, their educational experience becomes more dynamic and fascinating. Furthermore, e-learning empowers students to learn continuously and to keep up with evolving information and skills. This method also promotes inclusivity when it comes to different learning preferences. Additionally, learning management systems (LMS) are also an essential part of the way e-learning revolutionized education.
Advantages of e-Learning
So far, it has been more than obvious, that e-learning has multiple advantages. Of course, there is also a fly in the ointment in this barrel of honey. Let's discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of e-learning.
Efficiency
Online learning provides educators with an efficient means of delivering lessons while utilizing tools such as videos, podcasts, and PDFs. The integration of these tools and resources helps to go beyond traditional textbooks and develop creative and critical thinking skills. In addition, the usage of such elements can help educators adopt new learning styles and enhance comprehension among learners.
Flexibility
E-learning is about accessibility, making it possible to attend online classes from any location. The ability to record and share online lectures facilitates future reference, giving students the flexibility to access previous lectures or learning materials at their desired time. This accessibility promotes a student-centric approach and fosters personalized learning.
Low Cost
One of the significant advantages of online learning is the reduced financial costs compared to traditional learning taking place in physical classrooms. The reduction of factors such as transportation, real estate expenses, and meals contributes to the overall affordability of online education. In addition, the fact that all course materials and resources are provided in digital format helps students save money.
Improved Student Attendance
As already mentioned, online classes can be taken from home or anywhere of your choice. Thus, most students tend to attend classes regularly.
Variety of Learning Styles
Each student has a different learning styles and preferences. While providing options spanning visual and auditory learning, e-learning accommodates the individual preferences of learners. This is one of the best ways to create a perfectly harmonious learning environment suited to the needs of each student.
Disadvantages of e-Learning
While there are numerous benefits, it is also crucial to mention some of the drawbacks of e-learning. (add an image of a student using digital devices for educational purposes and looking tired).
Difficulty to Focus on Screens
Many students face significant challenges in online learning. One of those challenges is the difficulty of staying focused on the screen for a long period. The online environment also poses a higher risk of distractions from social media or other websites.
Technology Issues
Another notable obstacle in online classes is the issue of internet connectivity. Despite the significant growth of the Internet, small cities and towns still encounter challenges in maintaining strong Internet connections. The absence of a reliable Internet connection can disrupt the learning process.
Feeling of Isolation
In e-learning, there is limited physical interaction between instructors and teachers. This can lead to a sense of isolation among learners. To address this critical issue, it is essential to promote alternative forms of communication among peers, students, and instructors. Specifically, the incorporation of online messaging and video conferencing can improve face-to-face interaction.
Emerging e-Learning Trends
The landscape of e-learning is growing continuously. Several emerging trends shape the future of online education. Adaptive learning is one of those prominent trends. Thanks to adaptive education, students can have personalized learning experiences that will fit each student’s academic needs.
Another major trend is the integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in e-learning. The latter create immersive learning environments for practicing concepts they studied during online classes. These trends provide students with the opportunity to use innovative and powerful tools and enhance their learning experience.
Conclusion
Have you already found your next online learning material to expand your knowledge and skills? Or do you feel overwhelmed with the processes? Maybe you need tools to help you build a perfect learning environment. Save Saima now to use it when you are ready to set up your learning space.