| dc.description.abstract | eLearning, although not entirely new, has taken on a renewed form and focus with the advent
of new technologies like Web 2.0 which allow for easier collaboration and the growth of social
media. As with any new technology being introduced into a very traditional formal sector like
Education, there are a number of barriers to ICT in education and the progress is cautiously
slow. In addition outcomes of eLearning are very different from traditional outcomes and are
difficult to measure with the current techniques, which further complicates or distracts from
implementation and the evaluation.
Advocates of eLearning need to embrace that this is complimentary to current educational
techniques and should be intended to enhance a learners experience and not completely
replace it. Opponents need to appreciate that the new technology is able to assist in producing
better equipped students with new 21st Century skills, at the same time opening a learner to a
more global perspective.
Developing Economies stand to gain significant benefits in advancing their education sector
with the correct and careful implementation of eLearning structures. Although much of the
focus for eLearning implementation is on access to technology, there are a number of other
factors that have to be considered to effectively implement an eLearning program;
1. Shared Vision and Policies aligned to social and economic desired impacts
2. 21st Century Pedagogy requirements
3. Foundational ICT Skills
4. Curriculum Framework
5. Contingency Planning
6. Skilled Personnel and continued professional development
7. Suitable equipment
8. Technical Support
9. Assessment and Evaluation
eLearning is essential for a developing country. The process requires a long term plan and
commitment but the end result could allow us to not only leap-frog but surpass other countries
in having adequately prepared graduates for the 21st Century. | |
