April 2001 — Editorial
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E-Learning
E-learning is considered the latest advance in technology-based learning. It is generally regarded as "electronic" delivery of learning on the Web, or Internet-enabled learning. E-learning is seen as an alternative to taking courses in the traditional classroom setting, providing flexibility and convenience in education. Multimedia courses to harness the full potential of the Internet and new media technologies are now being developed. The model that is emerging is access to learning, where, how and when it is needed, in a learning environment that exists almost entirely on the Web.
As stated in a KnowledgeNet white paper, "Exploring the E-learning Myth," the ultimate learning experience is one "that adapts to the student's level of expertise, that's engaging, animated, full of relevant examples and yes, delivered by real live humans in real time. There would be simulations and hands-on labs as well as quizzes, pre-assessment tests, online assistance, assignments and monitoring 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week."
E-learning's advantages - its flexibility and round-the-clock access to any number of courses - make it particularly attractive to corporate trainers. However, many companies are reluctant to state that relevant savings exist. According to the research survey of 250 firms presented in the Feb. 26, 2001 issue of Information Week, 46% already see a return on investment (ROI), but 21% say it will take a year or more to report ROI on their programs.
Corporate entities are typically earlier adopters of new technology than are academic institutions. This is often attributed to the more complex decision-making process in the academic world. It is predicted that e-learning businesses will be worth more than $7 billion by 2002. It is noted in the same Information Week research survey that favorable results are identified in improved employee performances, increased sales and better customer satisfaction.
Education's use of the Internet and of e-learning has grown substantially. Students are setting their own time schedules, learning from each other and from instructors all over the globe. Most higher education institutions offer e-learning opportunities. For example, California State University (CSU) recently announced its 25th anniversary of providing "distributed learning." The university has enrolled many students in over 800 courses in 40 disciplines. The Education Department of the State of Pennsylvania is offering online professional development to more than 100,000 teachers. They take courses on the Web toward earning credit for 180 hours of mandatory continuing education training every five years. Two courses are now available: one that is focused on reading, and another that focuses on using technology in the classroom. The courses are designed so that the content can be applied across all subject areas. The U.S. Navy has partnered with 16 colleges to offer sailors an opportunity to complete full degree programs using e-learning. Since not all submarines and aircraft carriers provide Internet access, video and print-based courses are also available.
One of the first public school programs to offer high school courses for credit over the Internet is in Eugene, OR.
