Online Training /E-learning in the 21st Century: Opportunities and

Challenges

Grace A. Ajuwon

Network of African Medical Librarians (NAML)

AJPP Annual Workshop and Meeting Accra, Ghana 26 April, 2013

Traditional/Face-to-face learning

Traditional/Face-to-face learning

Introduction

• The idea of using technology in the classroom is not new• From use of transparencies, projectors and Power Point

slides are all familiar examples of this idea• Technology has become a key to a new world of learning• Online training/e-Learning has become one of the most

popular ways of gaining access to an education• It offers new educational possibilities to all potential

students“if you can’t go to school, we’ll send the school to you”

(Dwyer, Barberi and Doerr, 1995)

Terminologies

• Computer Assisted Instruction• Computer-based Training• Electronic learning• Internet based Training • Web-based Training (delivery could be

on the Inter- or Intra-net),• Online Learning• E-learning /e-learning

Online Training/E-learning: Definition

• Online training or E-learning /e-Learning as it is also known is learning that is accomplished over the Internet, a computer network, via CD-ROM, interactive TV, or satellite broadcast

• e-learning, refers to use of computers and communication technologies in the teaching learning process with the intention to enhance its effectiveness (Sasikuma, 2013)

• E-learning involves the use of a computer or electronic device (e.g. a mobile phone) to provide training, educational or learning material (Derek Stockley 2003)

Definition Online Training/E-learningConts.

• E-learning is an approach to teaching and learning, representing all or part of the educational model applied, that is based on the use of electronic media and devices as tools for improving access to training, communication and interaction and that facilitates the adoption of new ways of understanding and developing learning (Sangrà, Vlachopoulos and Cabrera, 2012)

• The delivery of a learning, training or education program by electronic means. It can cover a spectrum of activities from the use of technology to support learning as part of a ‘blended’ approach (a combination of traditional and e-learning approaches), to learning that is delivered entirely online (JISC, 2013)

The Need for Online Training/eLearning

• Shortage of qualified teachers

• Cost• Distance• Professional duties• Family• Travel• Health issues• Time constraint• Technology

Learning Methods

Modes of Online Instruction

There are two primary modes of online training/instruction:

• synchronous (instructor-facilitated) instructor and participants are online at the same time –virtual classroom

• asynchronous (self-directed, self-paced). Uses content repositories for offering content, and discussion boards, e-mail, chat for communication.

Types of eLearning

• online courses• live online training/virtual classrooms,• blended learning,• learning via mobile devices and smart

phones,• social media for learning,• video • podcasts.

Components of Teaching Learning Process (TLP)

Components of TLP

• Communication • content

• assessment

Technologies

• e-mail, discussion board, chat

• Notes, slides, slides on line, videos, web resources, simulations

• assignment online submission, online test

Mode of Delivering Online Training

• Instruction can be delivered by a combination of methods: – Static (learning portals– hyperlinked pages– screen cam tutorials– streaming audio/video– live Web broadcasts) – interactive (threaded discussions– chats, – desk-top video conferencing).

Opportunities/Benefits• It is asynchronous- 3As (Anywhere, Anytime, Any pace)• Flexible (when and how learning occurs)• Can meet a specific learning objective• Learner control• Can be customized for an individual or group• Cost effective

– Cost savings (individual)• Accommodation• reduction/elimination of travel costs• A course can be repeated several times without charges

– Cost savings (organizations)• Venue costs• Trainers salaries• Refreshments• More staff can be trained

Opportunities/Benefits Conts.

• E-learning can reach an unlimited number of people virtually simultaneously

• Reduces the need for a classroom/instructor infrastructure

• Consistency of content• Easy access to learning materials• Enhanced learning experience• More systematic feedback• Meet needs of geographically dispersed

employees or students)

Challenges• Lack of awareness among population• Low adoption rate• Limited or absence of Instructor /student interaction• No set time for classes• Bandwidth and connectivity limitations• Lack of ICT skills• Difficulty engaging learners online• Language barrier• Time management (Students may not complete the

course)

References• Sasikumar, M. E-learning: Opportunities and Challenges. http://

www.cdacmumbai.in/design/corporate_site/override/pdf-doc/e-learning.pdf Accessed 19 April, 2013

• Sangrà A, Vlachopoulos D and Cabrera, N . Building an Inclusive Definition of E-Learning: An Approach to the Conceptual Framework. The International Review on Research in Open and Distance Learning, 13 (2), 2012.

• Kay, P. Online Training and e-Learning. UK Business.co.uk. http://www.ukbusinesstraining.co.uk/articles/online_training.php Accessed 14 April, 2013

• Stockley, D. E-learning Definition and Explanation (E-learning, Online Training, Online Learning). What is E-learning? http://derekstockley.com.au/elearning-definition.html Accessed 19 April, 2013

• Karrer T, e-Learning Technology. E-Learning Technology blog, 2007. http://elearningtech.blogspot.co.uk/2007/10/elearning-defined.html Accessed 22 April, 2013

• McConnell, D. (2000) Implementing computer supported cooperative learning. London: Kogan Page Limited

• Joint Information System Committee (JISC). Introduction to eLearning. http://www.jisc.ac.uk/elearning Accessed 19 April, 2013