Everything About E-Learning

To learn, no matter where you are, to have access to knowledge and the transfer of knowledge everywhere – that is the idea behind the term e-learning.

By definition, it is about learning through digital media instead of in school, in workshops, or in seminars. Learning with the help of the Internet is a subject that is becoming increasingly important. But how exactly does e-learning work? What does e-learning fall under? And does it really work? Or can we not do without on-site learning in groups? In the following, we give an overview of e-learning, the forms, strengths, and weaknesses of digital learning.

Detail Guide On E-Learning

What is e-learning?

E-learning is basically a form of learning in which computers, smartphones, or tablets are used and the learners access the Internet. It can be e-learning if a teacher has put a PDF online that learners, regardless of whether they are pupils or students, can then use for learning. The internet – this is already clear here – is indispensable for e-learning nowadays.

There are also older definitions of the term that understand e-learning offers to mean everything that includes media. That can also be learning in front of the television or on the radio.

Which known e-learning tools are there?

The well-known course management system Moodle has proven itself at universities. Moodle originally stands for Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment. Digital course rooms are offered here, in which learners can access work materials. There is also the option of exchanging content, answering questions, or voting in forums. Moodles are often used at universities as a supplement to face-to-face teaching.

In addition, there are a ton of other online tools that learners can use. Video lectures are obvious then there are digital index cards through apps and games for learning languages ​​to tools that can be used to organize notes or literature citations. A search is worth it. Which tool is the right one depends on the type of learner and the content that is to be learned? They can be a good addition to conventional learning material.

What are the advantages of e-learning?

A few advantages of e-learning are obvious: It enables you to learn regardless of time and place. As long as there is internet access, the learning material can be accessed. It also allows learners to go through the material at their own pace. It is also beneficial for learners who otherwise run the risk of drowning. It is also good for introverts and people who don’t feel comfortable participating in groups or gatherings. For them in particular, e-learning with written discussion offers advantages.

Not to mention it is cheaper and often free. You can find many courses and lectures online for a lot less money than you would have to pay otherwise when attending an institute. You also have government programs that offer free courses to its citizens like miswebmail, which is offered by the Queensland government in Australia and is an excellent example of how this form of education can benefit ordinary folks.

What are the disadvantages of e-learning?

E-learning will probably not be able to completely replace learning on site. It is also more difficult to respond to questions in writing online.

E-learning also requires a high level of motivation and personal responsibility. You have to learn the material yourself, take care of yourself, and organize the time yourself. That can be exhausting. Especially if the e-learning course is really just a collection of written material that needs to be read. This is why the following apply to e-learning providers: The material should offer some variety. Videos, quizzes, and similar things can loosen up the otherwise very dry content.

What’s next with e-learning?

Experts think there will be more and more online learning opportunities in the coming years, especially in the area of ​​blended learning, in which face-to-face and online areas complement each other. As an example of how this might work in flipped classrooms. The idea behind it is that learning content is worked out at home. This has the advantage that everyone can work out the material at their own pace at home using materials that are made available online. The attendance time is then used for answering questions about comprehension and practical application.

Especially in the corona crisis, we have seen how far e-learning is already possible. It wouldn’t work without the Internet. It’s great as a replacement, but it is and will remain a replacement – especially when a lot has to be done quickly now. Nevertheless, we can assume that Corona will fuel e-learning and that more digital content will prevail in the area of ​​blended learning.