Like any other learning experience eLearning is not without its drawbacks. There are still a few limitations to eLearning that might cause users to reject eLearning programs. One example is that users need to have access to the internet and the proper software required. Users also need to be fairly sufficient in using a computer and the eLearning program they are working with. Users with entry level computer skills may find eLearning software to be too complex and easily become frustrated.
Another setback with eLearning can be found in the program design. If the information users are learning is irrelevant to the learning objective the system will be ineffective. Administrators must be sure the information being conveyed is useful and clearly satisfies the learning objective. If the information is unclear or irrelevant users may become bored with the interaction.
Other drawbacks with eLearning center around users rather than eLearning programs. Some users are “hands-on” learners and may become easily discouraged with this type of learning style. ELearning also requires users to be highly independent and responsible involving a great deal of time and self-management. Because eLearning entails an independent learning atmosphere, users do not have the support they would naturally have in a traditional learning environment. Users may feel help is inaccessible especially if the program lacks the proper instructions necessary.
I found this post very relevant to my experiences with e-learning. More specifically an online health and Spanish course. The problem for me was that the online Spanish was very user unfriendly. All of the tabs and menu option were exclusively in Spanish. In both courses I found that as a substitution for going to class (the main reason most people take online classes) the teacher made the class do "busy work." My experiences with e-learning have all been negative. I will probably not take one again. I do, however think that they will reduce the cost of and education.
ReplyDeleteI found this post very relevant to my experiences with e-learning. More specifically an online health and Spanish course. The problem for me was that the online Spanish was very user unfriendly. All of the tabs and menu option were exclusively in Spanish. In both courses I found that as a substitution for going to class (the main reason most people take online classes) the teacher made the class do "busy work." My experiences with e-learning have all been negative. I will probably not take one again. I do, however think that they will reduce the cost of and education.
ReplyDeleteI am the type of person who can learn anything if someone teaches me. I don't think I would do well in an online class because of this reason. I need to be able to ask questions and be able to relate to someone instead of a computer.
ReplyDelete