Pros & Cons of E-learning from student prespective

E-learning is the use of technologies in learning opportunities, without face-to-face interaction. It is different from the traditional class room learning. By using e-learning, student can learn through internet in their house. E-learning includes web-based training, computer-based training and web-based learning.

Some Malaysin universities offer e-learning courses such as Universiti Teknologi Pertronas (UTP), University of Malaya (UM) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).

Pros on e-learning:
1) Reduce cost and time
Student can save the time and money travel to school. Since e-learning can be conducted at home, student can just study at home. Besides that, student can control the time of learning, they can choose to learn until wherever the like.

2) Flexibility
Student can schedule their time table themselves. This will allow student to study at the time they prefer. Besides that, student can also choose a comfortable place that they prefer, e-learning can be conducted anywhere as long as there is a computer that can access to the internet. In addition, with the flexibility of time, student can do some part-time job whenever they are free.

3) Personalized learning
E-learning encourages students to peruse through information by using hyperlinks and sites on the worldwide Web. Students are able to find information relevant to their personal situations and interest. E-learning allows selection of learning materials
E-learning is more focused on the students because student can get the information they wanted to learn. E-learning is flexible and can be customized to meet the individual needs.

Cons on e-learning:
1) Lack of communication
Without the face-to-face communication, student will face the communication problem with their tutor or lecturer. Student may communicate with them by using e-mail or msn, but sometimes the e-mail is not instantly reply by the lecturer. This will not be useful if the student have an emergency problem.

2) Unmotivated
E-learning requires time to complete especially those with assignments and interactive collaborations. Students have to be highly motivated and responsible because all the work they do is on their own. Learners with low motivation may not complete modules.

3) Access
Students need to have computer skills with programs such as word processing, Internet browsers, and e-mail. Without these skills and software it will be difficult to conduct e-learning. Slow Internet connections or older computers may cause the learners to get frustrated and give up.