What
Is E-learning?
E-learning
(electronic learning) means using a computer or electronic technologies in the
learning and teaching process. While http://www.jisc.ac.uk/elearning defines e-Learning as learning
facilitated and supported through the use of information and communications
technology. It can cover a spectrum of activities from the use of technology to
support learning as part of a ‘blended’ approach (a combination of traditional
and e-learning approaches), to learning that is delivered entirely online.
Whatever the technology, however, learning is the vital element.”
How
To Make E-learning Effective
- Know the subject material well!
Before
making the e-learning, teachers have to know and prepare the subject material
well. Be prepared
to back up any claims made within the course material, not all learners
understand information the same way, and some may need more explanation through
further example and explanation.
- Online courses provided should appeal to all learning styles.
Every student has their own way of learning. Some
are like to learn visually, some others may like to learn by reading the
material in form of text. So, to make it effective, in an online course, it should
cover the need of students in term of their way of learning.
- Facilitate contact
In the online course, teachers have to provide the
students by the contact information. They should specify which means of
communication they prefer and during which hours. This will ensure that
expectations are met and that the student receives the help or support that
they need. For example, the students can contact their teachers via
email/social media, discussion forum, and so on.
- Set and communicate clear goals
one of the reasons teams are
unable to achieve goals is not having clear enough guidelines on how to reach
them. Part of the curriculum of any course should be what will be done, when it
will be done, and what is needed for the successful completion of tasks. It is
therefore important that all instructors set and communicate clear goals to
their learners in a manner in which they are sure they will understand and will
be able to put into action.
The
Advantage of E-learning
-
E-Learning can be
done in short chunks of time that can fit around the daily schedule.
-
Reduces travel
time and travel costs for off-campus students.
-
Students may have
the option to select learning materials that meets their level of knowledge and
interest.
-
Students can study
anywhere they have access to a computer and Internet connection.
-
E-Learning can
accommodate different learning styles and facilitate learning through a variety
of activities.
-
Develops knowledge
of the Internet and computers skills that will help learners throughout their
lives and careers.
-
Successfully
completing online or computer-based courses builds self-knowledge and
self-confidence and encourages students to take responsibility for their learning.
-
Learners can test
out of or skim over materials already mastered and concentrate efforts in
mastering areas containing new information and/or skills.
The
Disadvantage of E-learning
-
Learners with low
motivation or bad study habits may fall behind.
-
Without the
routine structures of a traditional class, students may get lost or confused
about course activities and deadlines.
-
Students may feel
isolated from the instructor and classmates.
-
Instructor may not
always be available when students are studying or need help.
-
Slow Internet
connections or older computers may make accessing course materials frustrating.
-
Managing computer
files and online learning software can sometimes seem complex for students with
beginner-level computer skills.
-
Hands-on or lab
work is difficult to simulate in a virtual classroom
From the
explanation above, we can conclude that e-learning is beneficial for the
students, but
it also has some disadvantages. So that, in making the e-learning, the
teacher
should consider some things in order to make the e-learning really fits and
gives some
helps to the students to study or learn.
Sources :
http://www.jiscdigitalmedia.ac.uk/guide/introduction-to-elearning
