What does government mean by e-learning?
The government defines e-learning as any learning, training or education program delivered by information and communication technology (ICT). It is empowered by digital technology and no face- to- face interaction takes place. Examples of E-learning that offered in Malaysian universities are Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Putra Malaysia and others.
There are two categories of e-learning, which are:
- Knowledge database --> This is the most basic form of e-learning. It doesn’t seen as actual training. You will see the software questions with step-by-step instructions to perform specific task.
- Asynchronous training--> This training is more focus on traditional sense of the word. It is the place of a live instructor with the links to reference materials. In addition, it consists of online discussion group, online bulletin boards to access with instructors.
Pros from students’ perspective
- Students can learn on their own pace and under less pressure. For those students who have a job, they can learn to fit their busy schedule.
- There is no travel cost, because e-learning is quick and easy to get the information in anytime and everywhere. For example, high networks capacity will make learning available to people 24 hours a day in the 21st century.
- Web-based allows instructors update timely information. Thus, students can retrieve information immediately.
- Teaching through online can improved interactive and collaborative among students. For instances, case studies, chat rooms, project teams, discussion group and etc.
Cons from students’ perspective
- E-learning will reduce social and cultural interaction among students and lecturers. Students will feel they don’t communicate enough with their lecturer when they are floating in space.
- It is easy for students to misunderstand the demands from their lecturers.E-learning required new skills, technical training and responsibilities from students. Howeve
r, some of students may have weaknesses in internet skills and computer skills. - E-learning required technology to participate in the virtual classroom. For example, those minor students who have low bandwidth and low memory computer will be difficult to access the internet as well as download course material.
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1 comments on "A discussion on E-learning offered in Malaysian universities: Pros and Cons from the students perspective"
ya, canot deny that e-learning brings a lot of benefit for students but it will cause the problem of communication and interaction amongst students and lectures..communication skills is very important in our society, so in pushing e-learning, hopefully communication skill wont ignore by us..
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