USE of E- Learning IN TEACHER EDUCATION

The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice

                                                                                                                                 Brian Herbert

The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn. The man who is too old to learn was probably always too old to learn. Developing a desire to learn is the kindling point of all classroom achievement.

The word learning is used by us routinely in our communication or discussions about teaching in higher education, so it’s important to make clear what we are referring to when we talk about learning. Educational researchers agree that learning is much deeper than memorization and information recollect. Deep and long-lasting learning involves proper understanding, relating ideas and making connections between previous knowledge and new knowledge, independent and critical thinking and ability to transfer knowledge to new and different contexts. But ahead it now a new term e-learning become very popular in today’s world of knowledge and information as well in higher education.

What is E-Learning?

In general e-learning means learning conducted via electronic media like computers, laptops, smart phones etc, typically on the Internet. According to Derek Stockley( 2003).

The delivery of a learning, training or education program by electronic means. E-learning involves the use of a computer or electronic device (e.g. a mobile phone) in some way to provide training, educational or learning material.

 A learning system within traditional teaching with the help of electronic resources is known as E-learning. While teaching it can be based in or out of the classrooms, the use of e-resources with Internet forms the major part of E-learning. Initially, it was not accepted enthusiastically as it was presumed that this system lacked the human element required in learning process. But with the rapid growth and progress in the field of technology and the advancement in learning systems, now it is acknowledged and readily accepted by the masses. The introduction of e-resources is the basis of this revolution in all the spheres of life and with the passage of time, as we get captivated to various electronic gadgets like LCD projectors, smart phones, tablets, etc. These devices now hold an importance place in the classrooms procedures for learning. Books are gradually getting replaced by electronic educational materials like optical discs or pen drives. Knowledge and information can also be shared via Internet, which is accessible 24/7, anywhere, anytime.

Benefits of E-Learning

1. The delivery of education is made to a large number of recipients at the same or different times
2. E-learning has proved to be the best means not only in the education sector but also in the corporate sector, especially when training programs are conducted by MNCs for professionals across the globe.
3. It helps in acquiring important skills while sitting in a board room, or by having conferences and seminars, which are conducted for professionals and teachers of the same or the different institutions at one place.
4. E-learning technologies are a step ahead of those which still have the traditional approach towards learning.
5.  Learning through electronic media makes it memorable, interesting and long lasting. As it has also been found that visuals, apart from holding the attention of the student, are also retained by the brain for longer period of time.
6. Different sectors like agriculture, medicine, education, services, business, and government setups are adapting to the concept of E-learning as it helps in the progress of a country.

Dr Rajnee Gaur

Sr. Assistant Professor

JIE, JEMTEC