E-Learning Pedagogies

E-Learning Pedagogies

What is E-Learning?

                   It is a form of electronically supported learning and also teaching. The Information and communication systems serve as media for implementing the communicative process.  E-learning is essentially the computer and network-enabled transfer of skills and knowledge. E-learning applications and processes include Web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classroom opportunities and digital collaboration. Contents of the learning process can be delivered through internet, audio, video and CD-ROM etc. In  modern days it is becoming a prominent learning environment.

E-Learning Definitions:

                   E-Learning can be defined in various aspects some of them are

“A broad combination of processes, content, and infrastructure to use computers and networks to scale and/or improve one or more significant parts of a learning value chain, including management and delivery.”

      “Electronic learning covering a wide set of applications and processes, such as web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classrooms, and digital collaboration”.

    “The use of internet technologies to deliver a broad array of solutions that enhance knowledge and performance.”

History of E-learning:

                   In the early 1960s, Stanford University psychology professors PatrickSuppes and Richard C. Atkinson experimented with using computers to teach math and reading to young children in elementary schools in East Palo Alto, California.

Early e-learning systems, based on Computer-Based Learning/Training often attempted to replicate autocratic teaching styles whereby the role of the e-learning system was assumed to be for transferring knowledge, as opposed to systems developed later based on Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL), which encouraged the shared development of knowledge.

Approaches to E-Learning services:

E-learning services have evolved since computers were first used in education. There is a trend to move towards blended learning services, where computer-based activities are integrated with practical or classroom-based situations. Some of the common approaches used are as follows

·         Computer-based learning(CBL)

·         Computer-based training(CBT)

·         Computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL)

·         Technology-enhanced learning (TEL)

All the above are innovative methods that render the learning services but differ in the way of usage.  CBL refers to the use of computers as a key component of the educational environment. While this can refer to the use of computers in a classroom, the term more broadly refers to a structured environment in which computers are used for teaching purposes. Computer-Based Trainings (CBTs) are self-paced learning activities accessible via a computer or handheld device. CBTs typically present content in a linear fashion, much like reading an online book or manual. For this reason they are often used to teach static processes, such as using software or completing mathematical equations.

            CSCL has the concept of collaborative or group learning whereby instructional methods are designed to encourage or require students to work together on learning tasks has existed much longer. Technology enhanced learning (TEL) has the goal to provide socio-technical innovations (also improving efficiency and cost effectiveness) for e-learning practices, regarding individuals and organizations, independent of time, place and pace. The field of TEL therefore applies to the support of any learning activity through technology.

Challenges of E-Learning:

                   E-Learning has to come across the following challenges

·         Organization

·         User attitude

·         Cost

·         Content/Pedagogy

·         Technological Barriers

Organization:

            As a whole, the organization must make some decision of the degree to adopt     e-learning. They may hesitate as it is not a necessity for them.

User attitude:

            User may not have the right kind of attitude. He may be reluctant to get into the innovational arena.

Cost:

            Though it may be useful and effective e-learning needs money to be spent for some cause which indeed is a challenge

Content/Pedagogy:

            The contents and the approaches followed may be older one sometimes as the instructors don’t want to try it out in new curriculum.

Technological Barriers:

            The lack of technology availability may be the biggest challenge in implementing e-learning

Advantages of E-Learning:

         The advantages of e-learning can be listed out as follows

• 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
• 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

Disadvantages of E-Learning:

• 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

Conclusion:

                   E-Learning environments are evolving rapidly in terms of tools techniques and standards. With a rapid growth in technologies like mobile and Internet the economic benefits are vast for a country like India. The challenges and drawbacks of the process can be overcome and learning can be made more individualized and comfortable.