E Learning

Have you ever thought about how the implementation of technology has changed the learning process?

The implementation of technology and digital resources has changed every aspect of life. The contribution of technology in education has made the teaching and learning process more effective. 

E-learning initiatives are also known as online learning or virtual learning, in which students learn at home through the internet and technical resources. E-learning provides flexibility of studying according to learning pace and study routine. 

After the COVID 19 era, E-learning has become a common term for denoting every teaching and learning process. The evolution of e-learning has changed the education system by making it more flexible and personalised. 

E-learning is not a single term used for teaching and learning process instead it is a broader aspect of online communication. E-learning is not only limited to academics but plays an integral role in other fields as well. 

E-learning also helps in the Healthcare sector, Banking, Business, Corporate, etc., where it is used to teach employees through LMS and exercises. Through e-learning, peers can participate in multiple ways ,and learners have more control over how they receive and react to e-learning content. 

What is E-learning?

E-learning can be defined as the process of acquiring knowledge or attending classes with the help of e-learning platforms.

E-learning, also known as electronic learning, is a broader term that consists of all types of online education that can be done with the help of technology. 

With the rapid adoption of technology, it becomes essential for students and individuals to stay updated with the latest technical trends. E-learning which is also known as digital classroom, web-based learning, online learning and virtual learning. 

E-learning uses Information Communication and Technology (ICT) in order to provide educational resources by means of the internet. 

The purpose of ICT in education is to provide students with equal and easy access to education irrespective of any challenges and hindrances. 

E-learning focuses on remote learning, which allows students to learn from any location irrespective of geographical boundaries. E-learning makes education more interactive as it uses simulations, gamification, 3D learning, audio visual elements and softwares which enhances students participation. 

History of E-learning 

E-learning is not a new concept and first emerged in the year 1999 as a form of distance education. The principles of e-learning were first introduced in 1999 as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) system. 

However, in the timeline of history even before the internet distance education was provided to students in the form of shorthand via correspondence. In the history of e-learning various new changes were implemented and with years it changed a lot. 

Various academics and corporate fields have acquired the process of e-learning as an efficient tool for learning. 

1. E-learning in the 1840s

In the early days when there was no internet, distance education was provided to students; however at that time it was not so popular. In the 1840s Issac Pitman was the first who introduced the shorthand initiative. 

In this method, completed assignments and tasks were sent to students through the mailing system and the same is done by students also.  Shorthand was developed by Isaac Pitman to enhance  the writing speed. 

In the earlier times shorthand was a popular skill and was widely used by secretaries, journalists, teachers, writers and other government officials.

2. E-Learning in the 1960s

In the year 1960, the first computer based training program was introduced known as PLATO.  PLATO is known for Programmed Logic for Automated Teaching Operations. The main aim of this program is to promote self-directed learning among students.  

However in the same year, Harvard Professor BF Skinner has invented a teaching machine which enables educational institutes to administer programs to childrens. However most schools have taken time to adapt these learning approaches.

3. E-learning in 1970s

The first online learning system was created in the 1970s to give students access to information. This initiative first originated in Britain, where open schools were the first to offer distance learning as an online learning. 

However, educational resources were not easily available at that time and due to this teachers were the only ones with access to them. The main method of communication at the time was email. 

However, with wide spread of the internet and access to educational materials open universities started to provide learning materials to students

4. E-learning in 1980s

In the 1980s e-learning has increased in popularity as at that time access to computers and the internet has expanded. People started using computers in their homes after Mac computers were introduced. 

They found it easier to pick up particular knowledge and skill sets as a result. This has extended  distance learning opportunities among students. Various open schools and educational institutes has also started providing distance learning opportunities to childrens.

5. E-learning in the 1990s

In the 1990s technology and the internet became easy access for individuals. The majority of people in 1990 had access to computers and the internet. 

Numerous open universities and institutions have begun offering distance education to students through online courses and programs. 

With technological developments a wide range of people were able to access education. However, in the year 1990 online learning was not much popular and most people were not aware of the term online learning.

6. E-learning in early 20s

During the early 20s education has changed its traditional method of teaching and learning. E-learning was adapted by multiple businesses and corporate employees through which they were taught with the help of online learning platforms. 

A wide range of medical institutions started providing online access to education. This method enable students to complete their education and achieve their degree from their homes. 

7. E-learning after 2020

In the year 2020 e- learning was adapted by most of the schools due to the scenario of covid 19. This changed the definition of education.

During the covid 19, e-learning has become a common learning method and a maximum number of students have adapted the e learning initiatives. 

Due to its advantages and ease of access to educational resources online education will continue to exist even after the end of the pandemic.

In order to improve the learning process education has made extensive use of technology including AI, AR, VR, LMS and more. 

Why is E-learning Important?

E-learning is an incredible aspect of the teaching and learning process. It gives flexibility and equality to learn as per the comfortability of students. E-learning allows students to indulge in lifelong learning and promotes self-directed learning. 

E-learning is not only limited to academics but also helps professionals to acquire necessary skills and knowledge. 

E-learning makes education more versatile and interactive which assists students to grasp deeper knowledge. 

1. Revised Lectures 

E-learning allows students to learn whenever they want, this is because e-learning contents are designed in such a way that it can be revisited by students.

Through e-learning students can revisit their lectures if they forget or have any doubt. 

This makes learning more easy for them and allows them to complete their assignments without any hindrances. This gives flexibility to study as per their schedule and convenience.

2. Updated Content 

E-learning contents change with time and stay updated with the latest trends and advancement. Unlike traditional book learning methods which have become outdated, online content can be updated quickly. 

This gives advantages to students to study and stay updated with the current technical trends. 

With the help of  e-learning students make sure that they meet the demand of current educational needs. This advantage also promotes holistic education where students continue their studies for future development.

3. Sustainable 

E-learning is sustainable as it doesn’t require any paper and resources. Paper waste is a cause of concern in today’s world as it is the reason for climate change. 

Unlike outdated textbooks and notebooks which were discarded after use, online learning provides digital resources such as e-books, Pdfs, presentations, etc. 

E-learning initiatives help in reducing environmental problems in schools as well as promote sustainable education.

4. Mobile Friendly 

Most e-learning is mobile friendly which means students can attend classes online with the help of mobile phones. This gives flexibility to students through which they can study as per their convenience. 

As mobiles are advanced and equipped with modern technologies that makes it extremely convenient for learning from mobile. In today’s world more than 96% of individuals use mobile phones.

5. Reduce Cost 

E-learning is cost effective as compared to traditional education. E-learning cuts costs related to transportation, hostels, traveling, accommodation, physical materials, etc. 

In online learning students can study from their own home, and can access study materials in the form of PDFs and ebooks. This saves money and extra cost which enables students to study without any hindrances. 

How Does E-Learning Work?

E-learning is a broad term that comprises any electronic medium that can be used to learn. E-learning works through providing educational content over electronic medium or digital platforms. 

In general, e-learning can be based on video, CD-ROM, networks, internet, or intranets. E- learning uses audio, video, animations, stories, simulations, and 3D elements which makes learning more easy and interactive. 

E-learning mainly denotes the internet and softwares to acquiring knowledge.

With the advancement of technology new learning softwares was included to enhance the learning experience of students. Below you can refer to how e-learning works.

1. Online Database 

E-learning platforms use digital databases to store information and knowledge of students. This provides training to students where knowledge can be transferred to them in a systematic way. 

Knowledge databases are the basic form of e-learning which offers explanations and guidance for every aspect. 

2. Asynchronous Learning 

E-learning uses asynchronous learning in order to provide effective study sessions. Students can receive study materials in a variety of formats including CD-ROM, video network, internet, intranet and more through asynchronous learning a type of traditional learning approach. 

This mostly focuses on self paced learning, where students learn on their own. This method basically denotes distance learning or homeschooling.

3. Synchronous Learning 

E-learning works by using synchronous learning, which enables students to indulge in live classes where teachers facilitate in real time. 

This method is all about real education with real time involvement. For this type of learning, the internet, websites, audio or video conferences, internet, telephones or even two-way live broadcasts to students in a classroom are typically used. 

4. Online Support and Feedback

Online support is very vital for proper e-learning outcomes. Proper support allows students to understand the uses of technology and technical aspects. 

Online support can be provided to students in various forms such as formative assessment tools, forums, chart room, online bulletin, etc. Online support provides the ability to ask more detailed questions and receive faster responses. 

Types of E-learning 

The contribution of technology in education allows students to enhance the learning experience. E-learning uses a variety of technologies that make learning interactive and engaging to students which makes education simpler and effective. 

These technical resources use a wide range of learning methods and techniques in order to provide quality learning opportunities. 

E-learning promotes dynamic education which can be updated as per the need and evolution, with technological advancements. 

1. Adapted Learning 

Adapted learning is a type of e-learning that utilizes data driven technologies which allows students to receive personalized and tailored content. 

Adapted learning compromises digital resources that allows them to maintain childrens class record as well as provide them flexible and customized education. 

Adaptive learning helps teachers to track students’ data, progress report and performance. Adaptive learning also allows students to understand their weaknesses and progress. E-learning for kids assists them in providing systematic delivery of content . 

2. Mobile Learning 

Mobile learning is a widely used most common  e-learning initiative which allows students to learn with the help of mobile phones. 

Mobile learning or m-learning is a simpler method of acquiring knowledge as most of the softwares and learning resources are mobile friendly. 

Through mobile learning students can indulge in live or recorded classes or acquire any information any time at any where. M-learning provides students with mobility and flexibility to study at their own pace and learning style.

3. Gamification

Gamification is a fun in learning approach that allows students to learn through gaming concepts. Gamification is an interactive method of e-learning in which students will be given digital badges or awards for their achievements in academics.  

Gamification learning makes childrens motivated which enhances the knowledge retention and enhances their confidence. 

To make class interactive gamification uses various activities and assessments which allows students to indulge in class activities and enhances their performance.

4. Microlearning 

Microlearning is another e-learning aspect which makes learning easy by breaking down difficult concepts into smaller ones. Through this method students can grasp difficult concepts through smaller chunks. 

Microlearning makes it easy for childrens to break down tough concepts into small understandable concepts, and makes it simpler. 

Microlearning includes short texts, messages, quizzes, infographics, and videos to make difficult concepts simpler and understandable. 

This method is known for  enhancing students’ critical thinking skills and promoting their problem solving skills, which allows them to retain information for a longer period of time.

5. Blended Learning

Another form of e-learning that blends online and offline learning is called blended learning. Hybrid or mixed learning are other names for blended learning. 

In this method students learn through in-person as well as online classes. This method provides flexibility through which children can learn at their own pace and capabilities. Blended learning allows students to learn from any location which helps in promoting remote learning. 

6. Synchronous E-learning 

Synchronous e-learning is a method of e-learning which includes real education with real time involvement. In synchronous learning students can interact with their teachers and peers virtually with the help of e-learning platforms. 

This method allows students to actively collaborate with others and develop problem solving skills. 

In this type of e-learning students can indulge in online group activities and develop collaboration skills. In this method childrens can communicate with others with the help of online chat, group conferences, video conferencing, web learning and so on.

7. Asynchronous E-learning 

With asynchronous e-learning students can study independently and at their own pace. Unlike synchronous learning, asynchronous learning doesn’t include live interactive classes. 

Students using the asynchronous learning approach can access learning resources via CD-ROM, video network, intranet and the internet among other formats. 

Asynchronous e-learning is a type of traditional learning approach that primarily focuses on distance learning and homeschooling.

8. Web-based Learning 

Web-based learning is a type of e-learning in which educational content is virtually learlivered with the help of the internet and softwares. 

This enables students to learn any concepts through virtual learning platforms that primarily focus on web-based platforms. 

Web-based learning helps students to utilise technical resources and make learning more interactive. Web-based learning uses LMS and SMS to track students progress and performances.

Best E-learning Platforms

E-learning uses various digital tools which provides a platform that makes learning easy and interactive. E-learning platforms facilitate the teaching and learning process, through which various resources and educational tools will be provided. 

This e-learning platform helps students to enhance their learning outcomes and improve their academic performance. 

Through this they can directly communicate with their teachers and peers virtually and engage in collaborative learning. 

1. Udemy

One well-known e-learning site that enables students to improve their skills is Udemy, which offers skill-based education. Experts from the industry and qualified educators instruct Udemy courses. 

Udemy provides affordable courses which allows students to  upskill their career without any challenges. Udemy promotes lifelong learning, practical skills, and career advancement. 

2. Toppr

Toppr is a very popular e-learning platform, through which students can develop problem solving techniques, and enhance their learning ability.

This e-learning platform helps in preparing students with their school assignments. 

To help students get ready for exams particularly the SSC and HSC Toppr offers video lessons and multiple-choice questions.

This learning platform offers adaptive learning tools which improves comprehension and knowledge retention among students. 

3. Simplilearn

The amazing e-learning site Simplilearn offers certification programs in a variety of subjects, including project management, entrepreneurship, data science, education and digital marketing. 

Simplilearn provides industry ready courses that are designed by the industry professionals. The platform’s ability to give students self-paced learning options and teacher support is one of its main advantages. 

This e-learning platform allows students to enhance their learning outcomes as well prepared for professional careers.

4. Unacademy

For pupils getting ready for government examinations common entrance exams and competitive exams such as UPSC, SSC, JEE and NEET. One well-known online learning platform is Unacademy.  

This platform provides structured learning and follows a national curriculum.

Unacademy provides thorough guidance, mentorship and focuses on preparing students for their future performance with the assistance of seasoned educators. 

5. Adda24/7

Adda24/7 is an amazing online learning platform that allows students and teachers to communicate directly in real time. 

In Adda 24/7 students can clear their doubts, and can prepare their homework. This platform prepares students for competitive exams. 

This learning platform offers a personalized learning approach that enables students to concentrate on strengths and weaknesses as well as aids in their exam preparation. 

6. Vidyakul

The popular e-learning app Vidyakul offers interactive one-on-one instruction to students. Vidyakul’s primary goal is to close the communication gap between educators and students. 

Vidyakul offers online resources to students to solve any problems. This also prepares students for competitive exams and allows them to get their questions answered.

Benefits of E-Learning 

E-learning is an interactive approach of learning that combines digital elements and visual learning platforms. E-learning helps in promoting a collaborative learning environment through which students can work cooperatively. 

This enhances digital literacy among children as well as promotes a positive learning environment. As compared to traditional schooling online education allows students to develop creative thinking skills and make them socially active. 

E-learning is not only limited to students but also assists educators to enhance their teaching method and assessment abilities. Here are the advantages of  e-learning mentioned below.

1. Provides Flexibility 

E-learning provides flexibility to students which enables them to study according to their pace and learning efficiency. E-learning is not only limited to students but also very useful for working individuals. 

Educational flexibility allows individuals to engage in teaching and learning process as per the study routine and comfortability. Online learning allows students to receive equal and quality education that matches with their study schedule irrespective of any hindrances. 

This helps in promoting inclusive education where every student can learn without any hindrances.

2. Personalised Education 

Another major benefit of e-learning is that it provides personalised learning opportunities to every student. E-learning allows students to receive tailored content which meets their diverse needs, as every student has their own learning style and capacity.  

E-learning uses virtual platforms which enables students to study as per their need with the help of one to one interaction. 

This allows them to develop confidence and motivates them to perform well in the examination. Through personalised education children can understand their weaknesses and strengths.

3. Promotes Global Collaboration 

 E-learning assists students to connect with any one at any time irrespective of geographical boundaries. The benefits of collaborative learning allows students to connect with any individuals online group projects, discussion boards, activities, experiments and project-works. 

E-learning platforms allow students to share their ideas, viewpoints, thoughts, concepts, emotions, knowledge, etc. 

Collaborative learning helps in promoting peer to peer education and making the learning process more interactive and engaging. Cooperative learning also aids students to promote cultural awareness.

4. Reduce Cost

One of the major benefit of e-learning is that it is cost effective as compared to traditional education. E-learning reduces costs related to transportation, hostels, accommodation, library fees and other activities. 

E-learning provides flexibility to students so that they can study at their own home without  travelling to any location. This helps in reducing costs and cut down extra expenses related to books, library, additional fees etc. 

Through online learning students can receive ebooks, PDFS, presentations  notes, and so on which reduces their cost.

5. Equal Accessibility 

One of the main benefits of online learning is that it gives all students easy and equal access to high-quality education.

Students can receive their education from the comfort of their own homes with the help of digital platforms regardless of any challenges and geographical boundaries. 

E-learning is beneficial for students who live in remote locations and are unable to attend traditional classrooms. With the help of  e-learning every student will receive an equal and high-quality education.

6. Real Time Feedback 

 E-learning provides students with real time feedback that allows them to receive feedback on their performance. 

Teachers can effectively conduct real time feedback with the help of formative assessment tools which allows them to understand their performance and weaknesses, this allows students to understand their weak subjects. 

This also aids educators  to change their teaching method according to students ‘ needs and performance. Real time feedback enhances students academic performance and learning outcomes.

7. Enhance Students Engagement 

E-learning uses interactive methods and fun in learning approaches for education which enhances students engagement. Online learning uses digital tools and resources such as videos, games, animation, audio, and simulations. 

This enables students to learn in a simpler and quicker way. This aids them in grasping concepts more effectively and promotes dynamic education. 

Due to class engagement students participate in class activities and allow students to enhance their knowledge retention.

Disadvantages of E-Learning with Solutions

E-learning helps in enhancing students academic performance as well as promotes learning efficiency. There is no doubt that e-education has numerous benefits; however, it still faces lots of challenges and disadvantages that hinders its true potential. 

The disadvantages of  e-learning cause students to find it difficult to engage in the teaching and learning process. Below you can refer to the disadvantages of  e-learning, with effective solutions.

1. Technical challenges 

Technical challenges are the most common challenge faced in e-learning. In e-learning students have to face various technological problems such as poor internet connection, software glitch, device issues, etc., which hampers the learning process. 

Students who reside in rural areas and small cities find it difficult to engage in online learning due to poor internet connection and unavailability of learning resources.

Solution to Tackle Technical Challenges 

Technical issues are a most common problem and can be faced by anyone at any time, however, technical issues can be eliminated by utilising high speed internet connection such as WiFi or modems. 

Even smartphones also help students to engage in the learning process as most of the learning platforms are mobile friendly.

21K School also comprises mobile friendly learning software, which allows students to learn from their phone. 

2. Lack of Face to Face Interaction 

Another significant issue with e-learning that hinders students learning is the absence of in-person interactions. Due to lack of face to face communication students find it difficult to interact with others. 

This hampers their communication skills, and social learning as children find it difficult to connect with others. Children’s mental health and motivation are negatively impacted by this issue which also negatively affects their learning outcomes. 

Solution for Lack of Face to Face Interaction 

The problem of face to face interaction can be avoided by implementing video learning platforms, and group classes. Students can successfully connect with their teachers and peers in this way. 

Using video chats, chat rooms, discussion boards, allows students to cooperate with others. To avoid this problem 21K school uses video platforms and a chartroom which allows students to indulge in face to face interaction and makes learning more engaging.

3. Cause of Isolation 

The lack of physical interaction between teachers and students due to online learning makes students socially isolated. Social isolation causes students to perform poorly in their exams, which affects students’ mental health.  

Due to isolation students develop exam stress, which affects their communication skills. Spending more time attending online classes affects physical interaction between teachers and students.

Solution to Tackle Cause of Isolation 

The problem of isolation can be avoided through blended learning strategies which enables students to indulge in both physical as well as online classes. Using video platforms and group studies and online group projects also aids in avoiding the problem of isolation. 

21K School also focuses on experiential learning where students can gain practical and digital skills. Even with the help of video platforms and interaction with students and parents make classes more interactive.

4. Lack of Motivation 

Lack of motivation is another major problem in  e-learning, attending online classes makes students isolated and demotivated due to which students find it difficult to connect socially. 

Due to demotivation students perform poorly in the examination which leads to exam stress that impacts their study progress and negatively affects their social skills. 

Solution to Tackle Lack of Motivation 

The problem of motivation can be mitigated by making class more interactive and engaging. By focusing on face to face interaction and motivating students to perform well in their academics enhances their performance. 

21K school also motivates and encourages students to perform extremely well, as well they also focus on skill enhancement activities.

5. Resistant to Change 

Resistance to change is another factor that hinders the implementation of e-learning. Many students and teachers are adapted to the traditional approach of teaching and learning, due to which they find it difficult to adapt new learning methods. 

As many teachers are also not equipped with the latest technical skills due to which they find it tough to teach students using technology and digital resources. 

Solution to Tackle the Problem of Resistant to Change 

The problem of resistance to change can be avoided by promoting digital literacy among students and teachers. 

Providing students with the latest technical skills and encouraging them to participate in the learning process using digital tools. This allows them to effectively utilize technology and indulge in e-learning classes.

 E-Learning Examples 

E-learning classes are conducted over virtual learning platforms utilising the internet that uses some resources to provide education. E-learning uses various digital tools and approaches. 

With the help of learning tools it makes learning easy and interactive for students. These digital tools are subjected to update and can be updated with time which enhances the learning experience of students and teachers. 

1. E-Book

E-book are incredible learning format of physical books and notes that can be acquired through digital format. E-books include PDFs, study materials, PPTs, notes and other study materials. 

E- books  allows students to study at any time without any hindrances, which also reduces the cost of physical books and traditional learning. 

E-books help in making learning more simpler and effective as compared to physical books. Through ebooks students can develop reading habits which allows them to promote dynamic education.

2. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) 

Massive open online courses or MOOCs are an e-learning format that seeks to give everyone free access to courses. 

These courses are provided by various organisations and primarily free and provided through free platforms and websites like Google, Linkedin, Facebook,  and other websites. 

MOOC allows students to learn through pre-recorded videos and animations which allows students to study at their own pace. This makes information and resources easily accessible to students enabling them to develop social-emotional learning.  

3. Formative Assessment Tool

Formative assessment tools are digital tools that are used to assess students’ performance and evaluate their learning outcomes. Formative assessment tools are an important aspect for e-learning education. 

Formative assessment tools allow teachers and students to enhance their teaching and learning experience. With this students can evaluate their own abilities and understand their weaknesses and strengths.

4. Simulations 

Simulations are interactive e-learning tools that enhance the learning process and make it more engaging. Simulations use virtual videos which makes learning easy and enjoyable, and allows students to solve the problems more efficiently. 

Simulation contains Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), that helps students to grasp concepts more easily which gives them 3D elements to learn quickly and understand difficult concepts. 

5. E-learning Platforms 

E-learning platforms are the most important aspects of e-learning. E-learning platforms make virtual learning possible, as students and teachers can teach and learn only through digital platforms. 

Numerous e-learning platforms are available including Microsoft Team, Zoom, Google Meet and Slack which allows students to communicate with their teachers and classmates and learn concepts more quickly.

6. Learning Management System 

In e-learning which emphasizes self-learning learning management systems (LMS) are an essential component. Lessons, modules, study materials, tests, learning resources and more are all included in an LMS an e-learning tool. 

Students can easily understand concepts according to their needs and comfort level with the aid of an LMS.

Additionally, it helps teachers create class notes and enter data into the learning management system (LMS) which enables them to keep an eye on students progress. 

Conclusion

Through the provision of adaptable, easily accessible and customized learning experiences e-learning has completely transformed the educational landscape. 

It has become a crucial component of contemporary education due to its transformation from traditional distance learning to a comprehensive digital platform particularly in the COVID-19 pandemic. 

E-learning offers advantages to a number of industries such as corporate training and healthcare in addition to meeting academic needs.

Even though it has many benefits like cost-effectiveness, updated content and increased engagement there are still drawbacks like lack of in-person interaction and technical difficulties. 

E-learning can develop further and offer top-notch instruction to students everywhere by tackling these issues and utilizing cutting-edge technologies creating a more dynamic and inclusive learning environment.

Education