This refers to the process of accessing educational materials electronically using the computers over the internet. It can also refer to covering a curriculum of a given level of study which has been proven and certified, over the web and other forms of media. This can be done over a very long distance or distance. This method of learning has enhanced learning by making it cheaper and easier to access educational resources. Besides these advantages, it also has some of its limitation.
There are certain factors which hamper the effectiveness of e-learning. It is very expensive for most students to avoid some of the electronic gadgets which are very essential for e-learning such as computers (Ding, 2015).The networks also require the internet connection to access the resources which are found on the web. This makes e-learning method of learning accessible to only very few individuals who can afford it.
There are few skilled personnel's to facilitate training of people on the e-learning. This is because many people are computer illiterate thus making them outnumber those who are qualified to train them on the computer operation skills. Some of the materials which are found over the internet are ambiguous and desperate to understand. This may pose a lot of challenges to the learners since certain concepts require the explanation of the lecturer or the teacher in his physical presence.
Certain materials which are posted over the internet are not correct and thus, may mislead the learner. Thus, some of them end up using the incorrect information. It, therefore, requires one to be very keen when while obtaining any information from the internet, this is a trait which is not common among all learners. Some of this information from the web are therefore are not accurate and cannot be relied on. The use of e-learning is also hampered by uncertainties such as unreliable power supplies and constant breakages of the gadgets used for e-learning.
The use of e-learning has improved my studies at Ashford University in various ways. It has enabled me to access study materials very easily and cheaply; this has made my research work to be very comprehensive since can obtain the information from various sources. I am also able to learn at any time of my convenience during the day and anywhere, thus making me perform other duties while studying. It also allows me to explore on my own especially when I don't want the interruptions of other students in lecture halls. This makes it very convenient for personal studies and research. E-learning also makes it easier to keep records and documents as they can easily store and access within a short period (Renner, 2015).
When computer trainer wants to train his learners one learning skills, the students must be prepared first in a given way first (Pollard, et al. 2013). The instructor starts by creating a conducive environment for learning. This is done by ensuring all the connections are made correctly. The trainer also has to ensure that the students can start and shutdown a computer.
The students should have the necessary skills and prerequisite knowledge in computer. This will enable them in solving particular problems which might arise during the lesson. He should also be able to motivate the students to arouse their interest. The trainer should also be able to identify and address the needs of all learners. From the discussion above, it is clearly indicated that e-learning as the method of study is very efficient and cheap and thus, should be encouraged among the scholars. To enhance these many trainers should be trained to help in teaching people on how to use it. Despite all these advantages of e-learning, it has some limitations which can be eliminated by being cautious while using it.
References
Ding, Y., Meso, P., &Xu, S. (2015). A Theoretical Model for Customizable Learning/Training to Enhance Individuals’ Systems Security Behavior.
Pollard, J. S., Higbee, T. S., Akers, J., & Brodhead, M. T. (2013). An Evaluation of an E-Learning Training Course to Train Instructors to Imp
Renner, J. R. (2015). E-Learning and Mobile Learning Training Manual for Colleges and Universities: Transforming Learning.
