Electronic Learning or can be called E-Learning is a term for all types of technological enhanced learning or knows as TEL, where technology is used to support the learning process. E-learning has been defined as “pedagogy empowered by digital technology”. E-Learning is used interchangeably in a wide variety of contexts and no face-to-face interaction takes place at all in the whole process of learning.
Lately in most Universities in Malaysia, e-learning is used to define a specific mode to attend a course or program of study where the students rarely attend face-to-face for on-campus access to educational facilities because they did study online without going to classes in universities. UTM is an example of the universities which provides E-Learning. |  |
Pros of E-learning on students perspectives
Convenience
E-learning courses are primarily independent of time and pace such as students can access instruction any time no matter where they live or travel. Online instruction knows no geographic boundaries and link students from all over the world so that students can share ideas in a culturally diverse setting with people from different social, economic, and experiential backgrounds.
 | E-learning enable students study anywhere they have access to a computer and internet connection. Students can learn at their own place and study at their convenience and class work can be scheduled around work and family. E-learning can accommodate different learning styles and facilitate learning through a variety of activities and student which have financial difficulties can continue working at their current job meanwhile they can take classes. This also will allow students to earn a living and gain work experience and able to apply it in their course work for a better results. Students does not need to follows the learning modules like studying in an actual university, E-learning provides self-paced learning modules that allow students to work at their own pace and convenience. Instruction and course work can be highly customized to your field and subject especially computer based training (CBT). In E-learning, students have the option to select learning materials that meets their level of knowledge and interest and they also can test out on materials already mastered and concentrate efforts in mastering areas containing new information and skills. |
Contemplative and reflective learning
Online courses can provide individualized attention and interaction depth from instructors and students that are not achievable in large classroom environment. E-learning do encourage contemplative and reflective learning opportunities such as students have time to reflect before responding. E-learning helps in students communications that eliminate the barriers that inhibit some individuals from expressing themselves when in face-to-face conversation. Students can concentrate and think about the readings before participating in the discussions in a quiet space and time without interruptions environment. Students may find distance learning more effective for those that prefer express themselves in writing rather than verbally. Students can learn in a fewer errors, safer environment and develop knowledge of the internet and computers skills that will help them in their future lives and careers. |  |
Reduces preconceived notions
The online format reduces preconceived notions based on students age, gender, race, background, or level of experience. Through E-learning, students can receive and give valuable feedback to each other and learn from people with a broad array of backgrounds and experience with less judgment than might be found in a face-to-face situation.
Students have the flexibility to join discussions in the bulletin board threaded discussion areas at any hour, instructors and students both report E-learning fosters more interaction among students and instructors than in large classrooms. Students that successfully completing E-learning courses builds self-knowledge and self-confidence that will encourages students to take responsibility for their learning.
Cons of E-learning on students perspective
Only effective on self-disciplined students
Students with low motivation may fall behind and E-learning need the discipline to study on their own. Students need to plan and adjust their own studying schedule around assignment due dates and student must be able to work unsupervised such as solve and problems independently without relying on others.
Confusion in study Without the routine structures of a traditional class, students may get confused about the course activities and deadlines. Instructor may not always be available when students needs help and students may need to wait for feedback and responses from peers and instructors for maybe a period of time. |  |
Less physical interaction
Students may experience feelings of isolation or a sense of detachment from their school and lack of face-to-face interaction or difficulty in developing relationships with classmates.
Limited connection speed
Slow internet connections such as limited local networking opportunities or older computers may make accessing course materials frustrating that need a new budget for additional high-speed internet costs and equipment needs for students and learning providers do costs a lot.
Required basic computer knowledge
E-learning requires students to manage computer files and online learning software that will be complex for some students with beginner-level computer skills thus may require students to learn new or enhance computer and troubleshooting skills.
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