The use of e-learning has boomed over the years to become a popular and accepted form of learning. However it has its pros and cons much like other forms of learning process.
The Advantages
Flexibility – E-Learning can be done in a staggered fashion so it can fit around your schedule. Unlike traditional training, your not needed to dedicate your entire day to training your company organized. If you only have an hour of free time a day, you can easily dedicate that to e-learning.
Mobility – Since e-learning can be done on mobile devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones, you can learn almost everywhere and not be confined in your office with traditional methods. Learning can be done whenever you have free time on the road. Everywhere is now your classroom.
No Travel – As mentioned above, e-learning is very mobile. Since it is not uncommon for traditional training to be sourced at great distances, using e-learning means that you don’t need to travel.
Low Cost – No need to rent equipment, rooms or trainers when you use e-learning. The savings can be considerable if you already have the device on hand for you learners.
Made for You – Unlike traditional training that is made to fit the majority, e-learning courses can be made to fit an individual. If you think that you already know a specific course, you can skip it and focus on other areas you feel you need to work more at. This gives learners the ability to learn on their own pace, a feat traditional learning can’t do.
Global Reach – Companies can ensure that their employees receive the same learning content regardless of their location and also their nationality. If you want to be sure that methodologies are translated well despite the geographical barrier, e-learning is the way to go.
The Disadvantages
Limited Control – Learners with low motivation might fall behind when using e-learning as there are no set deadlines and times. They might get too complacent and rush things up when required.
Learning Approach – Some prefer traditional learning since they want real life human interaction compared to just viewing or watching it in the screen. Some may prefer images, some words while others want hands on experience.
Isolation – Questions are easily answered when you are face to face with the trainer. Since e-learning is usually done outside working hours, most of the time they can’t get a hold of trainers that are mostly available during working hours. This can invoke a feeling of isolation can demotivate learners since they don’t have assurance and support.
Compatibility Issues – There is always the risk of incompatibility when it comes to e-learning. You must ensure that the device used by learners is supported by your platform. For example, Flash is not supported by iPads. Poor internet connection can also be a problem.
Computer Literacy – Employees that are not required to use computers on their daily routine might have a hard time using your platform. If their job doesn’t require them to handle computers, this can be very daunting for them. These employees are likely to learn a lot less compared to traditional methods.