E-Learning demands a new attitude to learning on the part of learners

Electronic learning, with all its characteristics is a major breakthrough in academic

education and professional training. Many universities around the world have incorporated E-

Learning solution into their curriculum, and commercial companies from different fields of

business have also integrated this method in their staff training programs in order to enhance

and develop the skills and knowledge of their workforce, which will significantly contribute

company’s growth in terms of production and profit.

However, it is also worth mentioning that despite its growing popularity electronic

learning is not fully utilizes and there are many ways in which e-learning can be utilized. One

of the examples is high schools, system of e-learning is not very incorporated into middle

education system. Although, there is much prospective in this direction: children of the

school age are very technologically advanced and often overcome adults in understanding

computer technology. But what is most important is that they are truly interested in the

modern technology. Therefore, this interest might be used to benefits them in terms of

education.

Secondly, electronic way of education does not realize its potential in term of learning

material. For example, considering all the devices used nowadays by the students, e-learning

solution did not touch much the textbook printing industry. However, that seems like a

logical step, which could have been taken a long time ago. Students keep spending big sums

of money on the textbooks, and this is one of the factors which make higher education so

expensive and unaffordable for many children. Using on-line libraries and textbook in

electronic formats could make education way more accessible.

Nevertheless, the trend of using e-learning as learning and/or teaching tool is now

rapidly expanding into education. Although, e-learning environments are popular, there is not

much research done of the attitudes of instructors and students involved into electronic

learning environment. What is more, at this point it is hard to compare the effectiveness of

both ways, traditional and electronic, on the learning process; it is also hard to compare the

quality of the electronic learning to the traditional one.

E-learning is considered to be a global tendency in the educational system. E-learning

market worldwide has been growing rapidly during the last decade. Different researchers

from different parts of the world discussed attitudes towards e-learning. The interest has been

caused by the fact that more and more students around the world switch from offline wasy of

learning to the on-line one. Therefore, let us clearly define what electronic learning system is

itself, what aspects it has, and afterwards analyze the advantages and disadvantages

associated with electronic learning. So, what is a definition of e-learning and how it demands

a new attitude among young people?

Firstly when electronic learning was introduced it was promoted as a savy way to

educate yourself with the use of CR disks with recorded information, which was usually

divided into the lessons. “Old style” of electronic learning did not involve any

communication at all, or you could call it one way communication, as the learned was

absorbing the prepared information (What is electronic learning?, n.d.). However, electronic

learning we have today has stepped far ahead, and now electronic learning process involves

the use of internet technologies and telecommunications in order to get and deliver the

information for education. In addition to that, the electronic learning is also very concerned

with clear communications between the source/instructor and the student. Therefore, the

success of the electronic learning process heavily depends a lot on the two-way

communication process (What is electronic learning?, n.d.).

Communication process involved in the electronic learning takes diverse forms. One

of the usual forms of communication is submitting assignment online until the set deadline, at

the same time the use of chats is very common too. All the students can simultaneously

participate in the discussion process, or leave the comments on the open forum s. Among the

most sophisticated communication ways are virtual classrooms, video-conferencing and the

use of shared electronic whiteboards. The last way allows modify the material and comment

in real-life regime, so everyone, including instructor and the learners can participate in the

discussion (What is electronic learning?, n.d.).

With the constant process of IT technologies developing and improvement, e-learning is

emerging as a paradigm of modern education (Pei-Chen Sun, Ray J. Tsai et al., 2008). There are a

lot of advantages of this process, which include limitation of time and space around a learner;

high-speed on-line interactions between teachers and students worldwide. In its broadest

form, e-learning encompasses (Katz, 2000; Trentin, 2007):

• The provision of information via information or communication

technologies in a very accessible and immediate way that can enable individuals to

refresh or extend their knowledge and improve their performance (Katz, 2000;

Trentin, 2007);

• The provision of interactive learning materials and packages designed

to facilitate skills or wider personal development. The actual courses currently

provided via e-learning mainly focus on IT skills and, to a lesser extent, on softer

skills (people-to-people training) such as general management skills, or more specific

aspects of management such as interviewing, negotiation, conducting meetings, etc

(Katz, 2000; Trentin, 2007).;

• At the third level, e-learning is multi-dimensional and embraces both

the first two levels into a wider performance support framework. This is coupled with

processes to administer and monitor learning provision and outcomes, and to provide

learners with various forms of support from experts and peers. On administration, e-

learning can provide access to learning resources including previews, registration and

tracking of use (Katz, 2000; Trentin, 2007).

E-learning is the acquisition and use of knowledge distributed and facilitated

primarily by electronic means (Mantzari & Economides, n.d.). This form of learning currently

depends on networks and computers, but will likely evolve into systems consisting of a

variety of channels (e.g., wireless, satellite), and technologies (e.g., cellular phones, personal

digital assistants) as they are developed and adopted. E-learning can take the form of courses

as well as modules and smaller learning objects (Mantzari & Economides, n.d.). E-learning may

incorporate synchronous or asynchronous access and may be distributed geographically with

varied limits of time (Wentling, Waight, Fleur, Wang, and Kanfer, 2000).

Development of electronic learning has had a positive influence not only on the

educational learning environment but on the business as well, as it was mentioned earlier.

Electronic learning enabled business to combine knowledge management and internal

communication. Therefore, the knowledge within the company can be spread faster, divisions

can exchange the experience, all the employees can undergo certain qualification training at

the same time. Company can launch a training within the all the branches, which is extremely

convenient if the company in presented internationally. The same is true if the company

launces a new software for internal use, and due to the electronic learning all the employees

can be trained to use it. Incorporation of the electronic learning into the knowledge

management of the company is very beneficial in terms of employees training, human

resource management and efficiency of information exchange.

This tailored mix of technology and strategic change management improves the

efficiency of learning by reducing more than 8 hours of classroom learning time to 3 to 4

hours of learning time with e-learning. Training can be accessed without travel by both

instructor and learner and training time is shorter, more targeted and of course immediate. By

developing a sophisticated learning management system e-learning can be tailored to the

learner by topics of need or priority. Specific behavioral or technical feedback can be

delivered through testing and database management on the basis of optimum customer

responses.

Electronic learning is widely spread nowadays: businesses – private or public sectors,

non-profit organizations, NGO’s (Non-governmental organizations) and educational

institutions. E-learning is deployed with the objective of enhancing the students knowledge

and cost saving. E-learning also helps to reach geographically dispersed groups, to provide

“anywhere-anytime” learning, to provide consistency, to ensure compliance with regulations,

and to improve productivity, to name just a few.

Ones of the most distinct and beneficial feature of the electronic learning are:

• Electronic learning is self-paced and gives students a chance to speed up or

slow down as necessary (Kruse, K., 2002)

• Learning is self-directed, allowing students to choose content and tools

appropriate to their differing interests, needs, and skill levels (Kruse, K., 2002);

• Accommodates multiple learning styles using a variety of delivery

methods geared to different learners; more effective for certain learners (Kruse, K.,

2002);

• Designed around the learner;

• Geographical barriers are eliminated, opening up broader education

options;

• 24/7 accessibility makes scheduling easy and allows a greater number

of people to attend classes;

• On-demand access means learning can happen precisely when needed;

• Travel time and associated costs (parking, fuel, vehicle maintenance)

are reduced or eliminated;

• Overall student costs are frequently less (tuition, residence, food, child

care);

• Potentially lower costs for companies needing training, and for the

providers;

• Fosters greater student interaction and collaboration;

• Fosters greater student/instructor contact;

• Enhances computer and Internet skills

• Draws upon hundreds of years of established pedagogical principles;

• Has the attention of every major university in the world, most with

their online degrees, certificates, and individual courses (Kruse, K., 2002).

Previous researches found by and large a favorable attitude towards e-learning. For

example, Peters (1993) explored the possible benefits provided by e-learning. Results show

great conformity to deriving benefits of e-learning in both teaching and research. However,

faculty members in this study expressed certain reservations regarding the future

implementation of e-learning at the university; for example: “One day the university will

receive all its learning provision through e-learning”, “e-learning will help faculty members

develop better teamwork and inter-personal skills” and “Implementing e-learning at the

university will make faculty members flock to sophisticated technologies in teaching”. These

attitudes reflect faculty members’ lack of trust in one another’s ability in using advanced

technologies in teaching as well as in building up teamwork spirit in the workplace.

Kruse, K., 2002)

One of the unique features of electronic learning is that it promises to provide a single

experience that accommodates the three distinct learning styles of auditory learners, visual

learners, and kinaesthetic learners (Rossett, Allison 2002). “Other unique opportunities

created by the advent and development of e-learning are more efficient training of a globally

dispersed audience; and reduced publishing and distribution costs as Web-based training

becomes a standard”. (Rossett, Allison 2002)

“E-learning also offers individualized instruction, which print media, cannot provide,

and instructor-led courses allow clumsily and at great cost. In conjunction with assessing

needs, e-learning can target specific needs. And by using learning style tests, e-learning can

locate and target individual learning preferences (Shintre, n.d.).

Electronic learner, also, provides an opportunity for a learner to adjust a study process

according to his or her speed. Advanced learners can go ahead, learn material and submit

assignment ahead of the class in case the system allows. This fact creates an efficient learning

environment for everybody, which can be adjusted according to the abilities of one (Shintre,

n.d.). Therefore, electronic learning is inclusive in the number of the learners and with their

maximum range of learning abilities, styles and preferences (Shintre, n.d.).

Despite the fact that a collaborative learning theory says that human interaction is

vital for successful learning process, electronic learning is taking a very prominent place in

the educational and business environment. Especially, due to the constantly developing

modern technologies the communication link between the instructor and the students in

electronic learning process can be preserved at almost the same level. No doubt that the

supporters of the traditional way of learning will remain on their position, but, there are a few

strong advantages of the electronic learning (Rossett, 2002).

Electronic learning possesses advantages to both sides: educators and learners. Below

there are the advantages that electronic learning process holds for two parties involved:

Advantages of e-Learning to the Trainer or Organization

• Reduced overall cost is the single most influential factor in adopting e-

learning. The elimination of costs associated with instructor's salaries, meeting room rentals,

and student travel, lodging, and meals are directly quantifiable. The reduction of time spent

away from the job by employees may be the most positive offshoot.

• Learning times reduced, an average of 40 to 60 percent, as found by Brandon

Hall (Web-based Training Cookbook, 1997, p. 108).

• Increased retention and application to the job averages an increase of 25

percent over traditional methods, according to an independent study by J.D. Fletcher

(Multimedia Review, Spring 1991, pp.33-42).

• Consistent delivery of content is possible with asynchronous, self-paced e-

learning.

• Expert knowledge is communicated, but more importantly captured, with good

e-learning and knowledge management systems.

• Proof of completion and certification, essential elements of training initiatives,

can be automated. “

Advantages to the Learner

“Along with the increased retention, reduced learning time, and other aforementioned

benefits to students, particular advantages of e-learning include:

• On-demand availability enables students to complete training conveniently at

off-hours or from home.

• Self-pacing for slow or quick learners reduces stress and increases satisfaction.

• Interactivity engages users, pushing them rather than pulling them through

training.

• Confidence that refresher or quick reference materials are available reduces

burden of responsibility of mastery.”

A lot of different researchers describe factors which show a perceived usefulness and

perceived ease of use as well as learner’s interaction with others in the global learning

environment. In the table there are core dimensions of perceived e-learner satisfaction

(Kanuka and Nocente, 2003)

Perceived e-learner satisfaction

Learner dimension Learner attitude towards computers;

Learner computer anxiety;

Learner Internet self-efficacy.

Instructor dimension Instructor response timeliness;

Instructor attitude toward e-learning.

Course dimension E-learning course flexibility;

E-learning course quality.

Technology dimension Technology quality;

Internet quality.

Design dimension Perceived usefulness;

Perceived easy to use.

Environment dimension Diversity in assessment;

Learner perceived interaction with

others.

Nevertheless, it is, also, worth mentioning the disadvantages of the electronic learning

process.

Disadvantages of electronic learning:

• Access capabilities: application accessibility should be ensured

24x7x365.

• Internet connection speed/bandwidth: care should be taken to ensure

that students with low bandwidth also can access these.

• Type of content (not all content is suitable for e-learning): it has to be

ensured that all content provided is suitable for e-learning, but some educational

institutions are not yet ready to adapt to the e-learning capabilities due to which much

of the content cannot be adopted to the e-learning platforms.

• Developer limitation: this is still a platform in its growing stages due to

which the developers still have many limitations to consider in developing these

platforms.

• Learner motivation and initiative: students are used to Internet and

hence the adoption to an e-learning platform is still at the beginning stages. For this,

the initiatives of the users have to be developed upon and the interest level has to be

increased.

• Cost (longer development time): the subsequent section will discuss

various implementation barriers, but one of the observed factors here is the high cost

and long time of development used in bringing an effective e-learning platform to its

users.

• Loss of a live (physically present) instructor may cause concern for

some learners and lack of instructors may not be perceived as a positive sign at many

educational institutions. This can be perceived negatively and hence poses a threat to

the growth of e-learning.

One of the chief drivers of course is that training becomes more accessible to the

learner. Thus training in theory becomes more efficient in terms of cost ($per employee) and

in terms of retention. With e-learning technology it is not necessary to send employees away

to expensive hotels for several days on seminars or on training courses. Employees can now

learn in their own time at their own pace and repeat the learning until they have retained the

information. Direct training costs are reduced dramatically, as well as indirect training costs

such as travel, hotel, transport and food. Training can be delivered quicker and more

efficiently by exploiting the company's intranet and internet facilities, be it at the employee’s

desk or in a custom made learning center. A company that has developed companywide e-

learning delivery systems can deliver a much wider range of content on demand (driven by

the user) more efficiently than for example a traditional classroom training center. Finally, a

compelling driver for any management team is that e-learning training if designed by

professional instructional designers, can improve top line revenues. Content is king and

within industry segments’ competition is high. Highly trained employees should have an edge

over the competition and therefore have a positive effect on top line revenues.

E-learning does not represent more of the same. Electronic communications

technologies, with their multiple media text, visual, voice and their capacity to extend

interaction over time and distance, are transforming teaching and learning. Notwithstanding

this widespread influence and the large and growing discourse on the topic, developments in

communications technology, and their adoption generally in different universities and

academies, have outpaced our understanding of how to use them to support an educational

experience. The qualities that will be valued in a ‘knowledge-based future’ will be the ability

to access and understand information. That is the ability to order and construct knowledge.

This is an enormous challenge and there are no simple rules or recipes for designing and

delivering an effective e-learning experience. (Garrison, Anderson, 2003) This is really true

of most educational experiences but, in the case of e-learning, is compounded by the

variables and variations inherent in a deep and meaningful e-learning experience. The pro's

and con's of e-learning vary depending on program goals, target audience and organizational

infrastructure and culture. But it is unarguable that e-learning is rapidly growing as form of

training delivery and most are finding that the clear benefits to e-learning will guarantee it a

role in their overall learning strategy.

To sum it up, e-learning has its own pros and cons as in any type of service-oriented

activities but if to compare its cons against the benefits we can take advantage of e-learning,

it will certainly dwarf the disadvantages and e-learning will still come as an excellent and

convenient way of gaining further education which will not require anyone to spend a lot of

money or time to spare just to achieve their academic pursuit. Electronic learning will grow

into overwhelming process, and most probably will be party incorporated into traditional way

of learning. Textbook industry will, also, be changed by the new technologies. The textbook

will become available in electronic format, which will make educational process more

affordable and convenient. Global knowledge can now be easily transmitted across the globe,

and foster the development of global educational environment.

Therefore, electronic learning with all its advantages and disadvantages, and what is

more important prospective is an integral part of the future educational and business

environment. Electronic learning will bring global knowledge together in order to create

accessible and quality educational system which can be tailored according to everybody’s

abilities and preferences.

Works Cited

D. R. Garrison and Terry Anderson, E-Learning in the 21st Century: A Framework for

Research and Practice, London: Routledge, 2003, pp.167

Marc Rosenberg, E-Learning: Strategies for Delivering Knowledge in the Digital Age, 2001

(http://www.mcgraw-hill.com)

Rossett, Allison (2002); The ASTD E-Learning Handbook; Best Practices, Strategies,

andCase Studies for the Emerging Field.

Kruse, K. (2002), The benefits and Drawbacks of e-learning (http://e-learningguru.com)

What is electronic learning?. (n.d.). What is electronic learning?. Retrieved March 10, 2012,

from http://www.mup.com.au/uploads/files/pdf/978-0-522-85130-4.pdf

Pei-Chen Sun, Ray J. Tsai, Glenn Finger, Yueh-Yang Chen (2008). What drives a successful

e-Learning? An empirical investigation of the critical factors influencing learner

satisfaction. Computers and Education,50. Retrieved October 3, 2012, from

http://ebiz.bm.nsysu.edu.tw/2009/m9540110

(Pei-Chen Sun, Ray J. Tsai et al., 2008)

Mantzari, D., & Economides, A. (n.d.). European Journal of Open, Distance and E-

Learning. European Journal of Open, Distance and E-Learning. Retrieved October 3,

2012, from http://www.eurodl.org/?article=150 (Mantzari & Economides, n.d.)

Shintre, S. S. (n.d.). Course ware conversion to E-Learning. Course ware conversion to E-

Learning. Retrieved October 3, 2012, from http://www.tirubaa.com/resource-center/ILT-

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