Pros and Cons of E-learning

Electronic learning (E-learning) is a broad term of technology-enhanced learning(TEL) where technology, particularly computer technology is used to support the learning process. In other words, that is a specific mode to attend a class where students seldom attend face-to-face on campus as they study online.

In Malaysia, not all universities truly offer a 100% E-learning. E-leaning is still in its infancy stage in Malaysia and the study found that local students prefer paper lecture notes and tutorial questions. Other than that, inadequate technical training, insufficient equipment, and no incentives for innovation also contribute to the problem of E-learning in Malaysia Universities.

Advantages of E-learning

Convenience and flexible to students

Students are not bound to a specific time or days to attend class. They can adjust accordingly at their convenience. For instance, some students may need to work at day time so they can continue to learn at night time without sacrificing their academic.

Save costs

E-learning actually helps to eliminate wasted time and money. Imagine a student who lives very far away from campus, he needs to spent more on transportation and it is time consuming for him to go to campus everyday. If he can learn at home, this definitely will reduce the costs.

Environmental friendly

E-learning is a paperless activity. It can help saving the trees. With virtual notes instead of paper notes, E-learning is reducing environmental impact.

Disadvantages of E-Learning

Accessibility

Every student must be able to access to internet in order to accomplish E-learning. Besides, certain computer skills and knowledge are also needed, such as word processing and internet surfing. The student must also be very comfortable with computers.

Speed of internet

In Malaysia, the bandwidth is always an issue for internet users. Although there are many internet service providers in the market, rarely one of them can actually provide consistent high speed internet. If E-learning is to be conducted in universities, the speed of internet will be a big issue for all the students.

Motivation

E-learning may require students to complete assignments on their own. Thus, students need to be highly motivated and responsible as they have to finish the task in individual.

Effectiveness

Lecturers and tutors may not be available when students need their help. The effectiveness of E-learning is then questionable. Besides, students might cheat on the assignment or coursework since everything is done online and not physically.

References:

A comparative study on the effectiveness of E-learning at Malaysian University

Disadvantages of e-learning

E-learning in Malaysian Public Universities : UKM and UTM