A discussion on E-learning offered in Malaysian universities: Pros & Cons from the students perspective

Electronic learning (E-learning) is a term for all types of technology-enhanced learning (TEL), where technology is used to support the learning process. E-learning is an excellent option in education, particularly when there are hindrances to traditional learning situations.

Lately in most Universities, e-learning is used to define a specific mode to attend a course or programs of study where the students rarely attend face-to-face for on-campus access to educational facilities, because they study online.

Pros:

• On-demand availability enables students to complete training conveniently at off-hours or from home.
• Self-pacing for slow or quick learners reduces stress and increases satisfaction.
• Interactivity engages users, pushing them rather than pulling them through training.
• Confidence that refresher or quick reference materials are available reduces burden of responsibility of mastery.

Cons:

• Technology issues of the learners are most commonly technophobia and unavailability of required technologies.
• Portability of training has become strength of e-learning with the proliferation of network linking points, notebook computers, PDAs, and mobile phones, but still does not rival that of printed workbooks or reference material.
• Reduced social and cultural interaction can be a drawback. The impersonality, suppression of communication mechanisms such as body language, and elimination of peer-to-peer learning that are part of this potential disadvantage are lessening with advances in communications technologies.

References:
1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_learning
2.http://www.answerbag.co.uk/articles/Advantages--Disadvantages-of-eLearning/3f3013fa-e6c3-4052-38ae-1c9b67bfdf20