Beat of Passion

When the World Wide Web was introduced to the world back in 1991, there was a huge interest in the chances of electronic learning (or e-learning). It is a very general term for all types of technology-facilitated educational process, where technology is used to assist the learning process. It is common the computer technology is used as the medium of instruction, especially those involving digital technologies. In most tertiary education centers, e-learning is used to define a pre-determined option to participate in a subject where the students were rarely present physically because the imparting of knowledge is done online. The e-learning has taken a step forward lately, as teachers and students become more familiar with the technology.

E-learning is good option in education, particularly when there are challenges to traditional learning situations. The advantages for students who learn online are as follows:

1. Convenience and Portability

· There are no time and place constraints

· Online learning does not require physical attendance

· Reading materials are available online and can be downloaded for revision

· Courses can be accessed anytime

· The speed of learning depends on the learner

2. Cost and Selection

· Ability to choose any range of course desired

3. Flexibility

· Online learning allows prioritize on student preferences and needs

· Availability of alternatives on self-study or instructor-led learning process

· Focus only on topics students wish to learn

· Students may use tools they wish that suits their learning process

4. Higher Retention

· Online learning will lead students to the topics they like. Therefore their attention will be captured throughout the process of learning

5. Greater Collaboration

· Most projects involve collaborative efforts. As such, the online environment is convenient to work in since physical presence and face-to-face communication is not required.

6. Global Opportunities

· Students can gain access to multiple resources and information where there is no such opportunity when studying in a classroom.

Despite having the advantages as mentioned, e-learning also has disadvantages. This includes:

• Learners with low motivation may fall behind the learning process
• Students may have extra excuses that their coursework is not completed (e.g. internet connection failed)
• Students may get lost or confused about programme activities
• Students may have no teachers to lead or guide them when they are in need
• The learning process may only cover theoretical works rather than hands-on experience
• Students may feel isolated and miss social interaction, barring them from learning to communicate better
• Slow or unreliable speed of Internet connection may lead to frustration for students
• Students with poor computer skills may find it difficult to handle to study via the computer and internet.