Technology-Enhanced Learning - Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages and Disadvantages

Key advantages of e-learning include:

• Improved open access to education, including access to full degree programs
• Better integration for non-full-time students, particularly in continuing education,
• Improved interactions between students and instructors,
• Provision of tools to enable students to independently solve problems,
• Acquisition of technological skills through practice with tools and computers.

Key disadvantages of e-learning, that have been found to make learning less effective than traditional class room settings, include:

• Potential distractions that hinder true learning,
• Ease of cheating,
• Bias towards tech-savvy students over non-technical students,
• Teachers' lack of knowledge and experience to manage virtual teacher-student interaction,
• Lack of social interaction between teacher and students,
• Lack of direct and immediate feedback from teachers,
• Asynchronic communication hinders fast exchange of question,
• Danger of procrastination.