E'Learing: Trends and Future Development

Abstract

During the last several years, high expectations have surrounded e-learning initiatives in companies, universities, and schools. Presently, however, this optimism has often given way to disillusionment. In this paper, we will postulate three central theses to help counteract both this process of disillusionment and the problems that were encountered during the initial euphoric phase of e-learning. The theses provide a framework for realizing the potential of e-learning in a beneficial and meaningful way. Firstly, this new technology should be applied to learning only when its use reflects a new culture of learning. Secondly, e-learning has to be integrated into the existing training culture of an organization. Thirdly, the imple-mentation of e-learning should focus on the learner rather than on technology. To substantiate these theses, we will provide examples that illustrate sustainable implementations of e-learning.