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The last few years have witnessed a growing interest in the concept of e-learning, with many experts believing that there is a shift happening from traditional face-to-face instructor led learning to an era of technology driven, collaborative, student-centric learning. In India, the percentage of students that are returning to education after work is increasing. The evolution of e-learning platforms offers the students a flexibility to integrate education with demands of work and family. E-learning is also beginning to penetrate K-12 education, adult learning and corporate training. The number of institutions offering online diploma and certificate courses in India is increasing as professionals are realizing the importance of lifelong learning in their quest for long-time survival.
There is an increase in the number of companies venturing into e-learning business. The global market for e-learning reached US $90 billion in 2002 (Yong, 2003). Even the younger generation in the age of 16 – 18 years is today more inclined towards e-learning because of the increasing trend towards the Internet and computer technology (Lau, 2002). Therefore, both academic units and enterprises are gradually moving from the traditional classroom bound learning to anytime, anywhere e-learning to meet the demands for a learner-centered learning environment.
E-Learning is multifaceted, covering a wide range of approaches and methods (Clarke, 2007). There are a number of technologies utilized for online learning. According to Hiltz and Turoff (2005), it includes correspondence courses, physical email, printed matter, audio recordings, computer assisted instructions, synchronous and asynchronous communication, Web and multimedia material, simulation and gaming, collaborative learning, asynchronous learning networks (AL), collaborative knowledge systems and wireless and handheld devices. The communication media may also include learning objects, video-on-demand, virtual laboratories, virtual classrooms, net meetings, streaming media, simulation, online assessment and web based management tools (Roffe, 2002).
E-learning is centered around Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The technology is indeed needed in e-learning to educate the learner through the use of two-way video, two way computer interaction, cable, satellite downlinks and the Internet (Evans & Hasse, 2001). According to Honey (2001), learning from e-mail, on line research, on line discussion are the examples of learning activities that involve ICT. According to Hiltz (1997), the necessary hardware for e-learning such as desktop or note book computer and printers are needed. Small and medium enterprises are not willing to adopt e-learning to educate its employees mainly due to the lack of hardware support.