Technology has increasingly become an integrated part of our lives-so much so that it seems bizarre to even think of doing the most simple, routine tasks without using electronic gadgets. The world is shedding of the conventional way of education and is open to adopt some challenging evolutions in the field of education. While people of all ages increasingly use technology for daily tasks, students are among the frequent users of technology.
E-learning gained popular due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To start up with the topic- Pros and Cons of E-Learning. Let us first discuss about what is understood by the term E-learning.
e-learning or electronic learning is a formal way of learning through electronic devices, such as, computers, tablets and mobile phones too. Now, e-learning is further classified into two categories-
- SYNCHRONOUS E-LEARNING: In this process, the learner and the trainers interact over internet in real time.
- ASYNCHRONOUS E-LEARNING: In this process, the learner study via auto-didactism, that is, the former and the instructor do not interact at the same time.
With the constant evolution of technology, e-learning is emerging day by day. Not to forget COVID-19. Due to strict lockdowns and to avoid crowd, education institutions have completely stopped the physical classes and now everything happens online.
Now, let us chalk out the advantages and disadvantages of E-learning.
ADVANTAGES: The millennials and gen z opt for pertinent, personalized and at times self-paced education.
- COMPLAISANT: E-learning is a digital revolution which let the learners to get hold off customized, allotted and conferred content at any time and anywhere. E-learning makes room for everyone’s needs, depending on the availability and comfort.
- FLEXIBLE TIMIMG: The best factor about E-learning is its time flexibility. It let the learner to access the session for nth number of times. Even one can attend the lecture according to one’s preferred time.
- TIME SAVER: E-learning does not bother the learner about the long and tedious travelling. One can comfortable get set for an online session. It is also cost effective in comparison to traditional way of learning.
- IMPACTFUL: E-learning has its own benefits-
- improves scores on exams certification and other types of assessments
- a larger number of students pass and achieve mastery level
- helps to induce learning abilities, thus, making the individuals to implement new techniques in practical world
- ACCESS TO NUMEROUS REFERNCES: Technology is a gateway of unconventional and scientific ways of learning. One of the key pros of E-learning is, both the learner and the trainer can get their hands on infinite number of resources during the session, making it more engaging and effective.
DISADVANTAGES: E-learning, though proven as a better mode of studying, has its own limitations.
- AUTHENTICITY: Unlike physical classes, an effective e-learning always depends on the accuracy of the source. Currently, there are more fake sites than authentic ones. One must be aware of frauds.
- NO FACE-TOFACE COLLABORATION: We often believe or rely on some one or something when we get in touch of it face-to-face. Same goes for e-learning. E-learning might be interactive due to video conferences, webinars and video chats, but a face-to-face interaction has its own spark. E-learning also restrains students to inculcate soft skills within them.
- NOT USER FRIENDLY: E-learning is not at all user friendly for maximum number of people, in spite of the thriving growth in technology. The rate of computer literacy is still far from perfect.
- LIMITED TO CERTAIN PRACTICES: No amount of online session can compensate the practical classes. Imagine, a medical student learning how to a brain surgery online.
- LACKS PRACTICALITY: Majorly, online trainers provide or focus on the theoretical development of a learner. This makes the session less interactive and monotonous.
- TAKING HELP OF U NFAIR MEANS: As everything happens virtually, students get the opportunity to cheat easily. Surveillance during examinations becomes difficult. Without a proper identity verification, a learner can fraud by letting some one else taking the assessment or simply copying.
E-learning may fade away as most of the companies attract parents and learners with flashy advertisements and scare them with the fearing of missing out. They have just substituted a coaching centre with an electronic device.