A.
Definition of E-learning
E-learning consists of two parts, ie 'e' is an
abbreviation of 'electronica' and 'learning' which means 'learning'. So
e-learning means learning by using electronic devices aid services. So in the
implementation of e-learning use of audio, video or computer device or a
combination of all three.
B.
The
History of E-learning
The term "e-learning"
has only been in existence since 1999, when the word was first utilized at a
CBT systems seminar. Long before the internet was launched, distance courses
were being offered to provide students with education on particular subjects or
skills. In the 1840′s Isaac Pitman taught his pupils shorthand via
correspondence. This form of symbolic writing was designed to improve writing
speed and was popular amongst secretaries, journalists, and other individuals who
did a great deal of note taking or writing. Pitman, who was a qualified
teacher, was sent completed assignments by mail and he would then send his
students more work to be finished using the same system.
In 1924, the first testing
machine was invented. This device allowed students to tests themselves. Then,
in 1954, BF Skinner, a Harvard Professor, invented the “teaching machine”,
which enabled schools to administer programmed instruction to their students.
It wasn’t until 1960 however that the first computer based training program was
introduced to the world. This computer based training program (or CBT program)
was known as PLATO-Programmed Logic for Automated Teaching Operations. It was
originally designed for students attending the University of Illinois, but
ended up being used in schools throughout the area.
C.
Indonesia Higher Education E-learning
Management Strategy
E-learning is a learning technology is
relatively new in Indonesia. Indonesia is located between 6 º and 11 º N
latitude and 95 º to 141 º BT BT is the largest archipelagic country in the
world that lies between two continents, Asia and Australia with the number of
17,000 islands that stretch more or less along the 3200 miles from east to west
and 1100 miles of North to South. These geographical conditions more or less
become an obstacle in the dissemination of education and training services
using conventional methods (face to face) to all citizens.
The main vehicle in the development of human
resources is education and training. But when watching the situation geography,
socio-economic and cultural diversity of Indonesia, it is clear that it was not
adequate anymore (not practical) when only relying on the ways of traditional
solutions alone. Therefore, various alternative strategies relating to the
problem needs to explored, studied and applied. As the development of
globalization there are many people aware about this especially for those whose
profession is a teacher.
D. The
Advantages and Disadvantages of e-Learning
.
E.Types of E- Learning
There are a number of types of
e-learning that depend on the amount of physical interaction. Entirely online
e-learning occurs without any face-to face interaction. Course work and
materials are distributed electronically through email, websites, online forums
and/or CDs or DVD-ROMs. Combined learning uses a combination of
Internet-directed instruction, as well as face-to-face interaction. Most
traditional colleges and universities use combined learning as students learn
in physical classrooms, with instruction augmented by online lessons. For those
learning for personal accomplishment, e-learning can also use a combination of
e-learning types, as they can be entirely self-directed, or they can use the
assistance of an expert in their selected field.
F. Location
Because the only requirements for
e-learning (in most cases) requires a computer with Internet access or a
CD/DVD-ROM drive, e-learning students can learn from home, libraries, Internet
cafes or any other location that has Internet access. This is why e-learning is
a preferred option for those who work full time or part time and cannot afford
to travel to a physical school. The ease of location with e-learning also makes
it preferable to stay-at-home parents with young or special-needs children. E-learning
can also save money in that e-learners do not have to pay for gas, vehicle
repair or parking validation if they choose to remain at home while taking
courses online. Ease of location is also beneficial to students who are
home-schooled, as they can gain social interaction through online
communications as well as educational materials.
G. Pace
Another benefit to e-learning is that
it is self-directed, meaning that the e-learner sets the pace of her learning.
Unlike traditional methods of education, e-learning allows a student to pace
her educational needs with her comfort level. This is especially true when a
person chooses to use e-learning for personal accomplishment. For those seeking
a professional degree, there may be requirements and course work that must be
completed by a certain time, but these deadlines are usually more flexible than
the requirements made at traditional learning institutions.
F. Drawbacks
The most controversial aspect of
e-learning is for those who are seeking professional degrees. Some online
learning institutions may not meet the academic standards set forth by private
accreditation organizations. Accreditation standards are used to confirm a
learning institution’s academic quality. This does not mean that an online
institution that is not accredited has poor academic quality, but it can cause
problems when an e-learner seeks to transfer credits from an online institution
to a traditional educational facility. Another drawback to e-learning is that
it can be difficult for individuals who are not primarily self-motivated. While
self-directed learning has been appropriately praised for its versatility, it
can be a trap for those who need the external motivations physical classrooms
and instructors can provide.
H. Cost
E-learning has also been praised as a
lower-cost option for those seeking additional education. Costs for individual
classes and learning institutions vary depending on location, degree or type of
program, and area of study. Online universities generally charge the same way traditional
universities do, by charging per credit hour. But also like traditional
universities, scholarships, grants, and student loans are available as well.
See the Resources list below for sites with information about e-learning costs
by discipline and degree desired.
Bibliography :
4 .http://www.optimussourcing.com/learninghintsandtips/the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-elearning
