What is E-Learning in Higher Education?| CBU ECAMPUS

What is E Learning in Higher Education 1

Introduction

Anyone who has any sort of experience with eLearning will most likely agree that it is both effective and convenient. In today’s “always-on” world, both learners and educational institutions can benefit from eLearning.

It became the latest craze during the pandemic due to the unavailability of face-to-face instruction methods. But, what exactly is eLearning and why has its popularity skyrocketed in the last decade?

The main reason is that it provides organizations and institutions with a cost-effective and time-efficient method of rolling out their study programmes. On the other end, learners receive bite-sized training that has been proven to efficiently build up industry-relevant knowledge and competencies.

Given these benefits it’s not surprising that the eLearning industry is expected to reach $275 billion by 2022. Let’s take a closer look at what does e-learning stands for and how it can benefit both learners and institutions in the long run:

What is E-Learning?

E-learning, also known as online learning or electronic learning, is based on elevating the study processes through the use of electronic devices. It usually takes place on the Internet, providing students with unlimited access to their learning materials. The most common types of eLearning content include online courses and degree programmes.

The Evolution of eLearning

It is useful to look back in time to better understand how eLearning benefits organizations today. Elliott Maisie came up with this term back in 1999 when it was used professionally for the first time.

Since then, eLearning’s reputation has grown from strength to strength. But what factors have aided eLearning is becoming the most popular method of training delivery today? Among these elements are:

The Internet Prior to the internet, many people relied on printed manuals, CD-ROMs, and other limited methods of learning and training. It allowed organizations to abandon one-dimensional practices and embrace the flexibility of eLearning.
Multimedia Development The advancements in technology led to the ability to include multimedia formats in study materials including images, videos, audio, and graphics. This way of rolling out learning content proved to increase engagement and knowledge retention when compared to traditional learning.
Affordable Digital Devices Given that the first IBM computer cost nearly $5000 in today’s dollars, it’s understandable that eLearning’s popularity grew as digital devices became more affordable. Mobile learning has also greatly aided the growth of eLearning.
Learning Management Systems (LMS) LMSs have become more sophisticated, moving from locally installed to cloud-based systems, and organizations are increasingly using them to execute various types of training. There are numerous factors to consider when selecting an LMS; at the very least, ensure that it has the functionality and support you require to meet your objectives and those of your learners.

What is E Learning in Higher Education 2

What is E-Learning in Education?

The recent pandemic-induced crisis led to a large number of institutions turning to EdTech for creating a seamless and flexible learning experience through the use of digital platforms.

There are numerous ways in which teachers have used e-learning to continue teaching their curriculum. One major method is to use video communication platforms such as Zoom to create virtual ‘classrooms’ or lessons.

The teacher can plan and teach lessons as usual, with all students attending from the comfort of their own homes. The great thing about Zoom is that it can be accessed via phone as well as computer, giving students more flexibility.

And, when it comes to finding lesson plans and learning materials, the internet has a plethora of shareable resources.

What is the Importance of E-Learning in Education?

Currently, e-learning is playing a significant role in education by ensuring that students can continue their studies even during a pandemic.

Aside from that, e-learning is important in the modern classroom because it allows teachers to share students’ progress with parents and allows learners to continue their studies outside of the classroom via online learning materials and student forums.

Another great benefit is carbon print reduction due to going paperless. While it cannot be said that paper books and materials will completely disappear, e-learning tools and resources play a significant role in reducing paper waste and assisting schools in being more environmentally friendly.

What is E Learning in Higher Education 3

Advantages And Disadvantages of E-Learning

E-learning have numerous advantages that make it the first choice for many motivated students. However, there are a few drawbacks to be aware of, which may mean it isn’t appropriate in all cases. First, we’ll go over benefits of e-learning for students and faculty:

Benefits of E-Learning

Saving Time And MoneyBecause e-learning can be accessed from virtually any location, including your own home, it eliminates the need for travel, printed materials, and the costs associated with running an office or learning institute. This means that not only does online learning save everyone time, but it also makes learning much more affordable for the students.
Studying Anywhere, AnytimeE-learning can now be accessed from almost any device, which means that learning is no longer limited to the classroom or even the home. Apps and online learning platforms allow students to continue their education whenever it is convenient for them, including on the go, allowing them to make greater progress in their studies.
Easy to Monitor ProgressThe majority of Learning Management Systems (LMS) has a built-in feature that allows learners to track and monitor their own progress. Knowing how far they’ve come helps boost their motivation and retention rates. Teachers or tutors can also keep track of where their students are in a particular course or subject module and determine when additional assistance is required.
DiscreetAs some students may not be comfortable with learning in a large group setting, E-learning allows for studying at one’s own pace. E-learning modules usually come with interactive tasks to ensure learners properly understand each module.

Disadvantages of E-Learning

Relying on Self-Motivation To be successful, e-learning necessitates self-discipline and self-motivation. Because the learner is completely in control of his or her own progress, they will get exactly what they put into the learning. In a traditional classroom, learners have a teacher or a parent figure monitoring their progress and setting the pace for completing the programme’s curriculum. With these figures removed, excelling in online learning takes an iron will and a high level of self-discipline to successfully complete.
Lack of Face-to-Face ContactFace-to-face contact, which e-learning generally lacks, maybe a huge motivator for some people. Sometimes, even having online access to a real-life tutor doesn’t cut it. The social aspect plays a huge role for some students, which is why they may find e-learning unsuitable for them.

What is E Learning in Higher Education 4

Future of Online Learning

Online learning is projected to grow at an exponential rate in the future. As more educational institutions, corporations, and online learners around the world recognize the value of online learning, its role in education will only grow. Online learning already has numerous applications in education, and its future roles in education will be enormous.

The agendas of the world’s most successful educational institutions have already recognized that online learning has the potential to transform people, knowledge, skills, and performance, and other educational institutions are likely to get on board any time soon.

While the world of online education is undeniably exciting, many students who are uneasy with online learning still prefer the traditional live, in-person teaching methods to which they are accustomed. All students have different learning styles, and online learning will almost certainly never be a one-size-fits-all solution to education.

Taking all this into account, there is no doubt that we are already in a new era in education. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, we have plenty of 100% online degree programmes for you to choose from.

Feel free to contact us for any additional information. We’ll be happy to help!

Download our prospectus