A Discussion On E-learning Offered In Malaysia Universities: Pros and Cons From The Students Perspective

Electronic learning or E-Learning is a term for all types of technology-enhanced learning (TEL), where technology is used to support the learning process. Often the medium of instruction is through computer technology, particularly involving digital technologies. It is essentially a learning system that is supported by electronic hardware and software either online (synchronous) or offline (asynchronous). The learning is carried out either individually or on a small or large group basis and can be used as a hybrid to the face-to-face format, or exclusively in open and distance learning (ODL). In some instances, no face- to- face interaction takes place. E-learning is used interchangeably in a wide variety of context. E-learning is used to define a specific mode to attend a course or programmes of study where the students rarely, if ever, attend face-to-face for on-campus access to educational facilities, because they study online.

The Advantages of E-learning from the Students Perspective:

Ø Learning is self-paced and gives students a chance to speed up or slow down as necessary as the learning is self-directed, allowing students to choose content and tools appropriate to their differing interests, needs, and skill levels.

Ø Besides that, it accommodates multiple learning styles using a variety of delivery methods geared to different learners; more effective for certain learners, where geographical barriers are eliminated, opening up broader education options which made up 24/7 accessibility makes scheduling easy and allows a greater number of people to attend classes.

Ø Travel time and associated costs (parking, fuel, vehicle maintenance) are reduced or eliminated, which also included the overall student costs are frequently less (tuition, residence, food, child care).

Ø Fosters greater student or instructor contact where students and lecturers can contact with each other and lecturers uploading recent notes or students downloading any notes that they missed during the class.

Ø Moreover, it will provide higher retention where online learning will draw you to topics you like and enjoy. Studies show that because of this and the variety of delivery methods used to reach different types of learners, retention is frequently better than in a traditional classroom.

Ø Greater Collaboration of technology tools which make collaboration among students much easier. Since many projects involve collaborative learning, the online environment is far easier (and often more comfortable) to work in since learners don't have to be face-to-face.

The Disadvantages of E-learning from the Students Perspective:


Ø The lack of face-to-face communication with lecturers, contributes lack of understanding between a student and a lecturer. While a lecturer cannot easily feel a student’s demands, interests and motivations, a student can simply be lazy and being non-motivated enough and having free time schedule for his or her e-learning. This may result a low scope of the student’s knowledge and the lecturer’s accusation in lack of proficiency.

Ø Next, online classes, conferences and discussions are limited in time and totally exclude emotional interactivity. Though some universities and colleges which provide online courses and give online degrees evolve voice communication through networking technologies there is still lack of gestures, vivid dialogue and feeling of a student’s and a lecturer’s interlocutor’s presence.

Ø Moreover, not all people have self discipline. A student can avoid classes for the week and fall way behind. This makes learning even harder when trying to get caught up with the class. Lecturers may have to make a set plan and stick to it. This is sometimes very hard for people who like to put things off.

Ø Furthermore, in some cases, students are not always able to talk to a lecturer if they need help. This can be very frustrating if a student is not able to understand the material being studied. When taking the online course, he or she is the only one in the class. Some lecturer may need the interaction with other students as they may think one to one communication may be uncomfortable, making this another disadvantage to online learning.

References:

1. http://pppjj.usm.my/mojit/articles/pdf/0804/
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E-learning
3. http://elearning.utm.my/
4. www.ptpm.usm.my/pgt201e/Week11.ppt
5. http://www.elearning-avenue.com/pros-and-cons-pros-and-cons-of-e-learning/