Where Is E-learning Heading?

Institutions across the globe are embracing the concept of e-learning really fast. As the number of enrolments to online courses increase, the number of institutions offering virtual degrees and diplomas is also mounting high. The enthusiasm, excitement and success revolving around e-learning has just gotten better down the line. So, where is this concept of virtual learning heading? A recent survey carried out in USA to study the future direction of virtual correspondence schools has made some predictions as regards the changing educational scenario.

The survey noted that virtual education has become a vital long-term strategy for a good number of post secondary institutes. There has been a steady rise in the higher education online programs. Considering the importance of post-secondary education, the quality of virtual courses becomes a key element of contemplation. So, a point that comes to spotlight is faculty training. Online instructors must possess the requisite skills to teach via the virtual mode. Training should be imparted to them so that they are in a better position to function in an online network. There is a considerable difference between online teaching and face-to-face teaching and hence the difference calls for a proper training for the instructors. According to the research conducted, it has been predicted that the quality of online degrees will improve considerably in the times to come. Just 8% of the surveyed population felt that the quality of e-learning will deteriorate in the next couple of years.

The survey also stressed on various types of 'pedagogical practices' that are formed on fundamental constructivist principles. The study stresses on the point that online courses should be collaborative, interactive, project-based and relevant. Besides this, the survey also states that the learners should be provided some control or choice over what they wish to learn. A majority of the surveyed people hold that problem-based learning (PBL) and case-based learning (CBL) will be the most preferred online methods of instruction in future. The respondents feel that in the coming times, the courses will be specially tailored to fit the precise educational needs of the learners.

Technology also plays quite an important role in the expansion and growth of virtual learning. No wonder, more and more e-colleges have reported a rise in the employment of online tools. Efforts are continually being made to integrate online technologies into learning processes. Usage of blogs, wikis and podcasting has been reported all around so as to enhance virtual student collaboration. New technologies are emerging with the passage of time but their effectiveness still remains to be tested. The coming times will witness more of such technologies that attempt to make online learning easier and more interesting.

We cannot be quite sure as regards the future of web-based learning but we can say for sure that we have entered a very exciting and unique era in virtual learning and teaching. The clouds of myths and misconceptions that had hitherto shadowed the world of e-learning have also somewhat appeared. We can safely expect a better e-learning environment in the future.