Why Need Distance Learning (E-Learning)

1. What is Distance Learning?At its most broad level, distance learning is any educational or learning process or system in which the instructor is separated geographically or in time from his or her students; or in which students are separated from other students or educational resources. Contemporary distance learning is effected through the implementation of computer and electronics technology to connect instructor and student in either real or delayed time or on an as-needed basis. Content delivery may be achieved through a variety of technologies, including satellites, computers, cable television, interactive videoconferencing, electronic transmissions via telephone lines, and others. Distance learning does not preclude traditional learning processes; frequently it is used in conjunction with face-to-face tutoring or professional training procedures and practices. Distance Learning TechniquesDistance learning represents the whole category of technology-based learning which includes a wide set of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) applications and processes. Distance learning tools include web-based learning, computer-based learning, videoconferencing, virtual classrooms, and digital collaboration. Sad to say, the benefits and advantages of the distance learning haven't yet fully recognized and acknowledged in many parts of the world. In actuality, distance learning is a credible, efficient and effective alternative to classical education. Typical ICT-Based Models of LearningThe recent revolution in Information and Communications technologies has produced a variety of ICT-based models of learning. Here, we may cite a few examples:Learning by "correspondence".Learning through "Pressure Sensitive Blackboards".Learning through "Video Taped Lectures".Learning through Interactive CD's".Learning through "Web-based courseware".Learning through "Satellite delivered courses".2. What is e-learning?One of the most vital modes of distance learning is e-learning which is the delivery of content via all electronic media, including the internet, intranets, extranets, satellite broadcast, audio/video tape, interactive TV, and CD-ROM. e-learning is defined more narrowly than distance learning in the sense that it excludes text-based learning and courses conducted via written correspondence.3. Benefits of e-learningThere are many significant benefits for all those who engage in e-learning which include:Convenience:e-learning delivers just-in-time training to the desktop, taken at the learner's convenience. On-demand access means that the student can access training instantly at the office, at home, or on the road, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Customization:Through e-learning, academic institutions are capable of addressing individual and group needs, then tailor the learning modules to specific interests, career objectives, and geographic places.Customization:Through e-learning, academic institutions are capable of addressing individual and group needs, then tailor the learning modules to specific interests, career objectives, and geographic places.Learner Controlled:e-learning technology has offered learners greater authority over the learning environment where learning is self-paced giving them a chance to speed up or slow down as necessary. Besides, learning is self-directed, allowing students to choose content and tools appropriate to their differing interests, needs and skill level.Personalization:e-content can be developed with individual users in mind. Courses and programs can be created to deal with each individual's strengths and weaknesses.Cost Effectiveness:One of the major benefits of e-learning is that it eliminates the expenses of getting the instructor and students in the same place. Learners are given the chance to save travel expenses including residence, food, child care卐tc. Besides, employees don't experience the "opportunity cost" created from the working time being lost to training. In addition, the tuition fees for e-learning programs are usually less than traditional learning programs.Interactivity:The e-learning technology allow for the optimum interactive online environment and foster the greatest student/instructor content through the rich array of interactive we-based learning tools that are available for the learner.Effectiveness:Online training results in superior retention compares to traditional learning. Studies confirm that online learning processes lead to 60% faster learning curve. Moreover, the delivery of content in smaller units further contribute to a more lasting learning effect.Consistency:The information delivered can be consistent to all users , therefore, reducing the possibility for misinterpretation.Measurement:e-learning software empowers administrators to track learners' performance, measure their progress, and produce detailed usage reports. This enables trainers to carry out assessments and evaluate cost-effectiveness.Global Opportunities:With e-learning, the global learning community is at your fingertips. The technologies utilized provide learners with the unique opportunity to access global resources that may never be accessible in a traditional classroom. 4. The Rising Need for e-learningThere are several recent changes that have led to the rising need for e-learning in today's globalized world:Economy is evolving to a knowledge-based economyIn the last decades, the global economy has been shifting to what so called "Knowledge-Based Economy" where knowledge is created, acquired, disseminated, and utilized more efficiently and effectively by enterprises, organizations, individuals and communities for greater socioeconomic development and global competitiveness. The new knowledge economy puts a premium on intellectual capital making lifelong education more important than ever. However, the education constraints (whether time, money卐tc) are becoming more prevalent. Accordingly, e-leaning is a vital asset for all employees in the new knowledge economy.A paradigm shift in the way education is viewed and deliveredAt the dawn of the new millennium, learning is increasingly viewed as a competitive weapon. Business success depend largely on high-quality employee performance, which in turn necessitates high-quality training. In the quest to remain competitive in today's hyper-competitive market, companies are exploiting technology revolution in order to train more rapidly, efficiently, and cost effectively.Exponential growth of the internet provides the ideal delivery vehicle for educationThrough its increasing reach and simplicity of use, the internet has paved the way for a global learning community to exist where language and geographic barriers to education have been erased