E-learning in Higher Education

Abstract

This paper is a consideration of the issues associated with the need to associate the usefulness of technology to enhance the learning experience. This technological path will potentially enhance the learning process, not replace the lecturer or tutor. For lecturers and students, the implications of e-Learning are extensive.Increasingly universities and other institutions must provide quality and flexibility to meet the diverse needs of students – this will inevitably involve tailoring courses to suit differing educational needs and aspirations. Lecturers will be forced to fundamentally change their approach to teaching to accommodate the shift in student learning styles. The associated implication of increased workload requires proactive and effective management. It is clear that universities must change to accommodate demand and in response to new competition from global, giant corporate and virtual universities. However the problems associated with the change must be fully understood and taken into account prior to the transition-taking place. Whilst the benefits of e-Learning are highly prophesised, the many implications of implementing an e-Learning programme require careful consideration. Most, if not all the university sector are utilising technology to develop what they consider to be e-Learning. Many of these implementations are costly and yet superficial, in terms of learner engagement and activity.