I’m sure many of you have heard of the term e-learning and how much it has grown in popularity in the last couple of years. But just what is e-learning? Is it a type of online learning or does it represent all forms of online learning? Is it a viable alternative to traditional classroom teaching? How can you make the most of online learning? Let’s explore these questions in detail.

What Is E-Learning?

E-learning is an umbrella term for all types of online or digital learning. But rather than just using the terms inter-connected or distance learning, some experts prefer to use the term digital learning or e-learning because they feel the terminology more accurately reflects the type of learning taking place online. That being said, distance learning can also be a form of e-learning – especially as more and more universities and businesses shift to a completely online learning environment.

Why Is E-Learning Popular?

There are many reasons why e-learning is popular. For starters, the convenience of online learning for students is undeniable. Being able to log on and learn at your convenience, rather than having to get up early in the morning to attend classes is certainly appealing. In a world where many of us are struggling with pandemic lockdowns and fear of COVID-19, the desire to learn at your own pace and at a time that suits you best is certainly appealing. And what’s more is that some of the world’s best businesses and universities are moving entirely to an online learning environment, so the skills you learn here will be valuable no matter what career you choose.

E-learning is particularly popular among millennials. According to a Forbes report from April 2021, 66% of millennials said they would prefer to learn on their own rather than in a classroom setting. Only 14% of them preferred to learn in a traditional classroom. So if you’re a business or institution looking to take your education or training to the next level, consider implementing an e-learning program.

E-Learning Vs. Traditional Learning

Although e-learning is a broad term, it can be broken down into two distinct categories: (1) e-learning as a substitution for, or an addition to, traditional learning (2) e-learning as a replacement for, or an addition to, traditional learning. The first type represents what is sometimes called “shadow or clone” learning. In this type of e-learning, often called “substitution” or “blended learning,” students learn the content, but via different means, such as podcasts, videos, or online quizzes.

The benefits of this type of e-learning are many. For instance, you can use interactive tools to allow students to engage with the content and draw connections between concepts that they are learning about. These types of tools often called “interactive elements” because they encourage the student to engage with the content and contribute to the learning process.

The second type of e-learning, which we’ll term “traditional replacement” or “parallel training,” usually involves students learning the same content as those in a traditional classroom, but via a different means, or in a different location. For example, students in Boston might be learning about organic chemistry via a MOOC (Massive Open Online Course). Essentially, this type of e-learning involves the student learning the “same as” the instructor, rather than learning from each other as in a collaborative or social learning environment. This can also include students using different platforms or software to access content. For instance, a student in Boston might be using a laptop or desktop computer, while a student in London might be using a tablet or smartphone.

The disadvantages of this type of e-learning are similar to those of traditional learning. One of the primary disadvantages is the lack of human interaction, which can make it more difficult to learn. Another disadvantage is the absence of any kind of social element which can make it more difficult to collaborate and work with others. For these reasons, this type of e-learning is usually only used for specific skills or knowledge where there is no opportunity for interaction, such as law or accounting.

E-Learning as a Substitution For, or An Addition To, Traditional Learning

E-learning, particularly as more and more businesses and institutions adopt it, can be used as a tool to supplement, rather than a replacement for, traditional learning. This type of e-learning, which we’ll term “augmented learning,” usually involves students learning the same content as those in a traditional classroom, but via different means. For example, students might be using text-based learning tools, such as Chrome Books, Safari Books, or Kindle Readers, to download and read articles, textbooks, or other types of learning materials. Or, they might be listening to audio books via AudiobookBucket or downloading playlists of Sage Browsers for educational purposes.

The advantages of this type of e-learning are many. For instance, these learning tools can be used to supplement, or increase the learning efficiency of, those who are already learning the material, rather than being used to replace classroom learning. Another advantage is the ability to scale back the number of learning materials required, as you can often download or listen to a textbook or other learning material once and then access it from any device.

The disadvantages of this type of e-learning are similar to those of traditional learning. One of the primary disadvantages is the fact that you cannot always ensure that all the students will have easy access to the necessary learning tools. Another disadvantage is that, even with some of the best learning tools available, you cannot always ensure that everyone who needs to learn will be able to access them. For instance, someone might not have a computer, or the internet might not be accessible at home.

E-Learning as a Replacement For, or An Addition To, Traditional Learning

E-learning, particularly as more and more businesses and institutions adopt it, can be used as a tool to replace classroom learning. As mentioned above, this type of e-learning, which we’ll term “disrupted learning,” usually involves students learning the same content as those in a traditional classroom, but via different means. For example, students might be using video conferencing platforms, similar to Chromebooks or Skype classes, to interact with the instructor and other students and learn from each other. Or, they might be listening to audio podcasts from Podcast Learned, or watching YouTube videos on Stories We Told, to learn new things.

The advantages of this type of e-learning are many. One of the primary advantages is the ability to reach a large audience. Even if you don’t personally have the financial resources to invest in expensive equipment or additional tuition, you can often find a free or low-cost version of a specific software package or video conference platform, that will enable you to run a classroom-like learning environment virtually anywhere you have an internet connection.

The disadvantages of this type of e-learning are similar to those of traditional learning. One of the primary disadvantages is the fact that some students might feel more comfortable in a traditional classroom environment, while others might find it more beneficial to learn via video chat or audio podcasts. Another disadvantage is the inability to ensure that all the necessary learning materials are always available for those who need them. For instance, what if a student needs a textbook for a class, but doesn’t have one? Or, what if a student finds that reading a physical book helps them retain information better than using a device to read an audiobook?

In summary, e-learning can be a valuable tool for those seeking to better their lives or learn a new skill, as long as you know how to make the most of it.