Role of Libraries in E Learning

[jaison baby]

Advantages, Functions, etc.

[Mrs.K Kavita Rao]

There are numerousreports/ research papers discussing the role of libraries & information centres on elearning,some of them are below,you can read the full papers available at:

1. http://www.carl-abrc.ca/projects/e_learning/pdf/porter_report.pdf
2. http://www.ifla.org/files/hq/papers/ifla76/107-dhiman-en.pdf
3. http://www.elag2004.no/ws_papers/ws9.pdf

Also see:

http://www.slideshare.net/kelleralice/libraries-and-e-learning-2010...

 

[Jayshree Dave]



Recent developments in technology, Internet, and World Wide Web have created many new opportunities allowing consumers to buy products and use services from the sanctuary of their homes. E-learning is one of the many manifestations resulting from convergence of new technologies and emergence of the web. E-learning is referred to by several other names like online learning, virtual learning, distributed learning, distance

Learning etc.

            E-learning, distance learning, distributed learning and online learning have been used interchangeably. The following are main characteristics of e-learning:

 

Distance between learner and instructor:- That is, the learner and instructor are physically separated from one another.

Independent or group study:- The set-up of the learning environment is such that it allows learners to participate either individually or in groups, or a combination of both.

Delivery options:- Instructions may be provided in a variety of media from printed materials, audio cassettes, video tape, computer-based training programmed, CD-ROMS, to live satellite audio and video-conferences.

Learner-focused:- There are now technology that personalizes content and anticipate the learner’s future information and learning needs by recognizing patterns in how people learn. It can also match content with each individual’s learning style.

Learning can happen any time and any where. The learner is not required to participate in a course at a specific time or location. He/She can sit for the training programmed in the comfort of his/her home or at another office location, during lunch time or at midnight; whichever suits the learner’s mood best.

Learning can be interactive. Again technology plays an important role here in allowing the learner to interact with other learners through dedicated chat rooms and discussion forums. Or engage the learner by involving simulations of actual work place situations.

 

Learning can be asynchronous or synchronous:- Asynchronous learning means that learning does not occur simultaneously. Some examples of asynchronous e-learning include taking a self-paced course whereby the learner can stop at any point exchanging email messages with a mentor

Learning materials are current:-  It is relatively easy for the content provider to remotely change and update material online based on new information or new needs of the learner. The above characteristics of e-learning coupled with its appeal to adult learning pedagogy had made corporate e-learning an attractive option.