In response to the changing technology and advancement in various processes in business and the industry, most members of the academic community have already engaged in the so-called electronic learning (e-learning) by implementing a learning management system (LMS) that supports virtual classrooms that allow for greater flexibility where one can teach and learn anytime, anywhere. With a lot of advantages that have been cited for these LMS such as Blackboard, Schoology, Webwork, Itslearning, Litmos, SlideWiki, etc., this article will be discussing about the challenges faced by the implementors and users of such technology.
One of the most important challenges that slow down the success of E-learning is the availability of internet and uninterrupted access of the students to the sources of information for knowledge sharing. Also, it has to be understood that there are certain courses and lessons, that, in order to be learned effectively, need a hands-on training and instruction, which means that not all subjects can be taught through E-learning.
Isolation is another concern. Since students engage in a virtual classroom, they act and perform individually. This gives them the feeling of being alone and hinders the values of cooperation and teamwork. Also, being in front of the computer most of the time may affect the learner’s health. Computer radiation is a risk that these students are being exposed to. Eyestrain, bad posture and other physical problems may also affect the learners.
Moreover, the educators’ preferences in teaching and students’ preferences in learning should be taken into account. It’s true that as individuals we don’t all respond to one teaching method in the same way – some learn visually, and others learn with repetition or writing; some prefer to learn by themselves, whilst others need someone to guide them all along the way; some are extroverts and feel comfortable talking in front of people, whilst others are introverts and are afraid to communicate openly inside the classroom.
With these challenges taken into consideration, the members of the academic community should design processes and procedures to respond to each challenge and make the most out of the benefits provided by the LMS.
By: NANCY S. ESTRELLA|TEACHER I|BATAAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL|BALANGA, BATAAN
