Union

At the intersect between education and technology

E-Learning: Education of the Future?

Traditional teaching methods are quickly becoming outpaced by e-learning and what this means for students is that they face a whole new set of challenges. These arise from the sheer variety of learning systems that can be found as well as the different types of learners that exist.

Some students’ preferences may reside in ILT (instructor-led training) while on the other hand, some may find that self-learning through technology has more to offer than traditional learning methods.

As information technology continues to surge forward, the brand new industry built around e-learning appears to yield more value and push the limits of what can be achieved.

Content is becoming more accessible, artificial intelligence is bringing about drastic changes and these days, there are even services that deal in writing custom essays for those looking for the easy way out of doing their assignments. As like everything else, the wide world of e-learning is a double edged sword.

Here are some of the more positive benefits that e-learning has to offer:

Varying types of content

With e-learning, learnersare able to bask in multisensory experiences and gain knowledge via multimedia, whether through videos, educational games, audio books or online courses.

Since there are a variety of different types of learners, a live classroom environment may not be the best solution for everyone. With e-learning, learners have more choices and can make the most out of their learning experience by finding and harnessing the learning style that best suits them. Through the use of multimedia, entertainment can also be brought into the process of learning.

Flexibility and accessibility

E-learners are able to learn at their own time and at their own pace, enhancing convenience.

They can access their content through a smartphone, a tablet or a laptop computer. These learners do not need to be tied down to a specific location and are able to learn remotely. This can also inculcate the habit of lifelong learning.

For learners who are also working, on a training program or are always on a tight schedule, e-learning is a great way to maximize time.

Cost-effective

E-learning can also be more cost-effective when compared to traditional methods. Travel, logistics and course materials can take up a fair chunk of a student’s often humble budget.

As such, with e-learning, a learner’s ROI (return on investment) can be significantly higher than traditional learners.

Quick delivery and updated content

With e-learning, a learner can begin a lesson quickly and follow through at his/her own pace rather than at the pace of a whole group. E-learners also often have the ability to repeat lessons at an unlimited rate.

This is different from learners in the traditional classroom that generally only have the ability to receive lessons in the classroom environment and will not be able to repeat the lesson at their convenience.

E-learners are also often able to access updated content at any time, ensuring that they are always in sync with modern learners.