E-learning dates back to slide projectors and have evolved ever since then to reach the present era where distance education and smart learning has become common. Usage of technology for educating is the best way to put internet and technology in use for the development of young minds. While e-learning has widened prospects for education, there are certain drawbacks that are often brought to the front.
Here, we get you some interesting facts, quotes, GD topics and arguments that will help you form an opinion for a
Group Discussion on E-learning.
Some facts about E-learning:
- India is the second largest e-learning market in the world after the USA.
- It is estimated that distance education sector in India will grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 34 percent by 2018.
- Studies show that productivity and concentration of students increase by 43% when they are referring to the internet for learning.
- In 2016, the mobile learning industry was measured to be $5.3 billion and by the end of 2017 it was estimated to increase to around $12.2 billion.
- E-trainings take around 40-50 % less time than manual training sessions, hence saving time as well as cost of training.
- 70% of the people use their personal devices like laptops and mobiles for work and e-learning. The number is said to increase in 2018.
- E-learning consumed 90% less energy than traditional learning.
- 80% of online learners are under graduate and employed.
- More than 40% of the Fortune 500 companies use some form of e-learning technology.
Possible Group discussion topics on E-learning:
1. E-learning versus classroom learning - which is better?
2. Pros and Cons of e-learning.
3. Is e-learning a substitute for classroom learning?
4. E-learning is an easy distraction for students.
5. E-books - Pros and Cons.
6. Should schools allow students to learn via e-books and tablets instead of carrying a heavy bag full of books?
7. Smart classes for primary schools - Pros and Cons
8. Pros and Cons of distance education.
9. E-learning can help eradicate illiteracy in India.
10. Education system of India must rely heavily on e-learning sources to flourish.
11. E-learning has simply become a business.
12. E-learning can help the physically challenged.
13. E-learning has an edge over traditional learning with regards to interest and productivity.
14. E-learning is the future of education in the entire world.
A quote that can be used in Group Discussion on E-learning:
"Students do not learn much just sitting in classes listening to teachers, memorizing prepackaged assignments, and spitting out answers. They must talk about what they are learning, write reflectively about it, relate it to past experiences, and apply it to their daily lives. They must make what they learn part of themselves."
- Arthur W. Chickering and Stephen C. Ehrmann
Pros of E-learning:
1. Flexible: You can learn on the go. Even if you are employed and want to enhance your knowledge and skills, e-learning is the best option.
2. Faster: You understand better when you are subjected to a learning device of your choice with materials that are easy to understand.
3. Better examples: You can find relevant examples of the present time without having to invest in books and recently published materials.
4. Low cost: You do not have to spend a lot for getting enrolled in an e-learning program. The cost is far lower than the cost of getting admission in an institute.
5. Travel free: You can learn from anywhere under the sun with e-learning if relocating isn't an option due to job or personal commitments.
6. Access to best resources: E-learning lets you take access to best teachers and best learning material from the place comfortable to you.
Cons of E-learning:
1. Distraction: It is very easy to be distracted when internet is up and running on the same device that you are using for learning.
2. Lack of motivation: One can easily be distracted and when motivation is lost, e-learning is not enforced and hence a total waste.
3. Not for all: Not everyone is familiar with technology required for e-learning and hence this is not a one size fits all option for learning.
4. Isolation: You have no friends to share your leaning with and there is absolutely no one to discuss your doubts with.
5. Technology fails: In case of electricity issues as in some villages and town with power cuts, e-learning can be a problem.
Conclusion:
E-learning is an ever growing industry and is bound to change education system in a few years. However, it is important to draw the line where required to keep it from distracting.
We hope that you found this
GD guide on E-learning useful for the preparation of your entrance exams and placements.
