E-LEARNING – A SUBSTITUTE FOR CLASSROOM LEARNING ?

Background:-

• E-learning is essentially the computer and network-enabled transfer of skills and knowledge.
• E-learning applications and processes include Web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classroom opportunities and digital collaboration.

In Favor:-

• Through E-learning we can study from anywhere at anytime. All we need is just a computer and internet connection.
• E-learning costs less than classroom learning.
• Through E-learning we can continue studies while doing full – time job.
• We can repeat the lesson for many times if we didn’t understand the concepts.
• We can easily update new information / inventions.
• We can e-mail the doubts, and can be clarified.
• Student takes whole responsibility of himself in learning process. So that he becomes more confident.
• Students will become more flexible with computer, which is much essential in present generation.
• We can do the course in the university of foreign countries without going to there.
• Students can become comfortable in face-face to conversations which is very important in career.

In Against:-

• Through classroom learning, we can clarify our doubts immediately.
• Through classroom learning, we can increase our presentation skills.
• Through classroom learning, we can know how to behave with colleagues and superiors.
• Teachers in classroom can know whether students understand the topic or not, and explains the topic clearly using general examples.
• Unemployment increases, in result our nation’s GDP decreases.
• In the classroom, students will not only learn the subject but also interacts with other students and thereby make friends. Classroom influences the overall personality development of students. With e-learning, students will be deprived of this opportunity.
• As students have to look at screens continuously, it can strain their eyes.
• With e-learning, teachers may not be able to focus on all the students, which will be possible in the classroom. Teachers may not also understand whether students could grasp the concept or not.
• The classroom environment is lively in nature, whereas sitting in front of a computer or smartphone to listen to the classes will be boring.
• Even in this 21st century, some people do not have internet facility. So, e-learning deepens the inequality between rich and poor.
• E-learning may not create as much seriousness as classroom learning. So, students may not be motivated enough to listen to the class.
• Not all parents are technologically educated to help their children in case of any issues.
• If the device has other apps such as youtube, students may become distracted. Several students are already suffering from smartphone addiction. So, parents may not feel safe to leave the children unsupervised.