Elearning is, in short, technology supported learning. There is no face- to- face interaction like in a traditional classroom and learning takes place through the use of electronic means like computer or mobiles.

 

It can involve a large variety of equipments; so the instruction or content can be delivered on CD ROMs, DVDs, internet or LAN in companies. One can say that elearning is basically internet and computer based learning. Yet, Elearning is broader than terms like online learning or computer based learning because as the name suggests, online training only involves the use of internet and intranet and not CD-ROMS or DVDs.

 

Elearning is a form of distance learning; however it can used along with face to face teaching. Though, distance learning is many years old, elearning history is somewhat new but the underlying concept of both are same. In both, the learning takes place outside the traditional classroom and student and instructor are separated by physical distance.

 

Elearning history is almost as old as the age of personal computers. As more and more personal computers grew in number, the idea and concept of elearning emerged. Initially, Computer based learning emerged where the content and instruction material was stored in the CDs and one could access them by inserting it in the computer. However, the disadvantage of this kind of format is, if the learner is stuck at some point, there is no one to guide him.

 

Web based training or online training is very similar to computer based training but here the content is delivered through internet. It involves interactive methods like chats, instant messaging, video conferencing, which makes it a more popular option now. Online training and learning is all self paced, which means learner can go through the content at his own pace and can take time.

 

In 1990’s universities and colleges started exploring the idea of elearning as it had many advantages over traditional learning. It saves lot of time and travel related problems. Earlier, online training or degrees were not honored but slowly the perception has changed and many colleges and even companies are realizing its importance. May be the time is not far, when classroom type of learning will fade away and elearning will be the most coveted because of its advantages. It is possible for people to learn new skills, whether related to their jobs or not, from the comforts of their home, because of elearning.