What are the various challenges faced in E-learning and how to overcome them | Edzag

E-learning, also commonly referred to as online learning, is the process of attaining knowledge with electronic mediums. It covers everything that traditional forms of learning cover, but the only and vast difference that in e-learning, the whole process occurs over the internet.

It often takes place in the forms of online degrees, programs, and even e-courses, where students can access the learning material at any time. Up until the early 2000s, learning only meant that there is a classroom where students and teachers have to be physically present. Then, the internet happened, and the rest, as they say, is history.

The worldwide revenue regarding e-learning is expected to surge to $325 billion by the year 2025. This is a remarkable improvement, as in 2015, this figure was much smaller- $107 billion. With such increasing competition, the benefits that accompany e-learning have also reached well beyond expense cutting and convenience.

However, certain barriers have hampered the complete adoption of e-learning to be converted into a standardized method of education. Studies suggest that more than 30% of students studying online are concerned about unreliable internet, constant developments in technology, etc., are causing a hindrance in learning.

Here we have compiled a list of the most common obstacles faced in e-learning, along with a few suggestions on how to overcome them:

Adaptability

Since the traditional form of learning has prevailed in society for centuries, the sudden switch to digitized methods of getting education gets a bit difficult for most students to adapt to. It is difficult for a student to cope and concentrate on learning on the online learning platforms.

The best technique to overcome this challenge is on the part of the curators of content to develop courses while paying heed to individual needs. Adaptive learning now involves artificial intelligence to alter content by providing personalized courses in order to achieve better learning outcomes

Technical Issues

A common problem faced in e-learning is the interference caused by internet connection. E-learning requires the learner to have a high bandwidth internet which helps them to access the online platforms for virtual learning. Students face technical issues if they are not well versed with the technology along with the role a high-speed internet can play in attending online classes.

All you need to do is find a high-speed internet connection at home and be aware of where you can get technical support for software and tools for effective e-learning. It is also a good idea to keep an idea about public places which offer Wi-Fi like coffee shops, cyber cafes, etc.

Lack of Motivation

One of the most common challenges that are faced by e-learning professionals is the lack of motivation. Online learning required the learners to stay engaged, interested, and work towards getting an education. Since online learning is a comparatively informal method of education that does not require the students to present physically in a classroom-like setting, it becomes difficult for learners to cope up with this issue.

Students should try to be more involved with their education by being present for all lectures and extra-curricular activities. They should also make a proper schedule to be able to learn more effectively with their time management skills.

Deficiency of Communication

Online learning paves way for the barrier of communication between the teachers and students. It becomes difficult or confusing for students to talk to their teachers in this new medium of communication and there are high chances that the messages that are delivered are not interpreted correctly, which causes more confusion and wastage of time and resources.

Awareness regarding the importance of communication should be understood by all. Teachers should be aware that certain students might face difficulties in contacting them if they have any doubts, so they should be available and conduct personal calls so that students who are shy to speak up can ask their queries and clarify. One can also use certain tools that can help to improve the overall communication skills.

E-learning is a new and different mode of education that is slowly paving its way into our normal lives. It is understandable that not everyone is comfortable with it, and it is difficult for certain students and educators to adapt to these new technologies.

Even if you are facing challenges in the whole process, you should believe in yourself. Adaptive learning management systems help curate content so that it is easier for both students as well as teachers to cope with the online aspects of learning.