Definition of e-learning
E-learning is a type of online distance learning that uses the Internet and new digital technologies to enhance learning processes. This type of teaching lets learners train remotely at whatever time is convenient for them, with access to a huge variety of educational content on a 24/7 basis and from any location. People can train in any field they are interested in, at their own pace.
Who can access this type of training?
Private individuals, employees, self-employed workers… In short, anyone wanting to train, learn new skills or improve their existing skillset can opt for an e-learning course. This approach can also be a great way to flesh out your CV and unlock new career opportunities.
Pros and cons of e-learning
a- Strengths
The main benefits include financial savings (training costs are typically lower) as well as practical advantages: no time or location restrictions for training organizations, businesses or learners.
Benefits for businesses:
– Increased team productivity
– Better trained employees
Benefits for training organizations:
- Lower training costs
- Capacity to train more people in less time
Benefits for learners:
- Train at lower cost for the same content
- Access training more easily with just an Internet connection whenever is convenient for you, any time, anywhere
- Train at your own pace, not one dictated by a trainer or by classmates: personalized programs
- Be in control
b- Weaknesses
Despite offering many benefits, e-learning also has some limitations:
- The lack of human contact is challenging for some learners
- Learners may be deterred when confronted with too many different learning techniques and media
- Content may sometimes not be suited to their needs and expectations, with no scope for the trainer to adapt to individual participants as in a face-to-face approach.
- Difficulty getting motivated and feeling invested in the course, due to the absence of fixed time slots
- Lack of practical exercises
E-learning seen as increasingly effective
E-learning processes have changed over time. New training processes are emerging, implemented in new ways that appeal to a growing number of businesses. For example, “fast learning” (or microlearning) uses a sub 15-minute format that is proving very popular.
All these online training processes are driving growth in the global e-learning market, which is forecast to be worth $108 billion by 2020. This phenomenal growth can be partly accounted for by the boom in digital media.
