What is E-learning?

•      E-learning is a network technology-based mode of education that uses a mix of computer and other ICTs, across time and place constraints to deliver instruction and provide access to information resources ( Wallhaus, 2000).

•      Online learning is defined as learning that takes place partially or entirely over the Internet.

•      It can involve delivery systems such as videotape, interactive audio-video, CD-ROMs, DVDs, video-conferencing, Video on Demand (VOD), e-mail, live chat, use of the Web, television and satellite broadcasts.

Types of e-learning

  There are fundamentally two types of e-Learning:

•      Synchronous training

•      Asynchronous training

Synchronous E-Learning (Virtual Classrooms):

•      Synchronous, means “at the same time,” involves interaction of participants with an instructor via the Web in real time.

•      Synchronous activities involve the exchange of ideas and information with one or more participants during the same period of time.

•       A face to face discussion is an example of synchronous communications.

•       Modernized methods such as instant writing and webcam chatting, and virtual classrooms where student is receiving updated feedback from his/her tutor are utilizing.

Asynchronous E-Learning:

•      Asynchronous, which means “not at the same time,” allows the participants to complete the WBT (Web-based training) at their own pace, without live interaction with the instructor

•      Asynchronous learning is a student-centered teaching method that uses online learning resources to facilitate information sharing outside the constraints of time and place among a network of people.

•      It’s a connection panel between teacher and learner where the later is receiving extensive lectures or study lessons thru some e-learning methods, like e-mail and video tapes, according to a planned study program where time and place is suitably choose. 

Blended learning

•      "You may hear blended learning described as “integrative learning”, “hybrid learning”, “multi-method learning” (Node, 2001).

•      "The term "blended learning" is being used with increasing frequency in both academic and corporate circles.

•      A blended learning approach can combine face-to-face facilitation with computer-mediated instruction and/or discovery learning opportunities.

 Mixing synchronous learning and asynchronous learning