Internet – Based Learning Versus Traditional Classroom Learning.

Introduction Internet – based learning and traditional classroom learning are the popular learning styles known to some people. There have been several debates and which is still going on about which learning is the best. However, both learning styles have their limitations, advantages and disadvantages, but researchers still argue that one of the learning styles earlier mentioned is better than the other. Critics point out that Web-based training is a good alternative for independent, self-motivated students but that technical issues and the need for human contact limit its usefulness for students with other learning styles.

More about these learning styles will be discussed in this paper. Definition of Internet – Based Learning Internet-based learning also known as e-learning is any-time, anywhere instruction delivered over the Internet to browser-equipped learners [1]. According to Allison Rossett, She said; “Web-based learning is a training that resides on a server or host computer that is connected to the World Wide Web. ” Rossett also considers internet-based learning to be a training that is delivered partially or entirely through electronic hardware, software, or maybe both [2].

Another definition of internet-based or web-based learning is the teaching and learning supported by the resources and attributes of the Internet [3]. There are two primary models of Web-based instruction: synchronous (instructor-facilitated) and asynchronous (self-directed, self-paced). Instruction can be delivered by a combination of static methods (learning portals, hyperlinked pages, screen cam tutorials, streaming audio/video, and live Web broadcasts) and interactive methods (threaded discussions, chats, and desk-top video conferencing). ICT Revolution

The arrival of Information Communication Technology (ICT) revolution has made the world witness an expansion in Lifelong Learning, and it is also an ongoing process. The new ICT revolution has enabled academic institutions to provide more open and flexible learning environment for students. The Internet is possibly the most transformative technology in history for reshaping business, media, entertainment, and the society in amazing ways. But for all its power, it is now being tapped to transform education. Computer based learning and teaching is a rapidly growing area in education.

Opportunities are evolving in the area of web-based learning through ICT enabled education as bandwidth and transmission speed increases. These opportunities are increasing accessibilities and the quality of ICT enabled education. The convergence of new information technologies such as computers, satellites, telecommunications, and fiber optic technologies make it easier for institutions to implement Lifelong Learning. Web-based course delivery can offer a vibrant learning environment created through different teaching strategies, activities, and technologies.

Traditional forms of education are being transformed as the Internet becomes the new medium for communication [4]. Advantages of Internet – Based Learning With the emergence of Internet-based Learning, people are now able to achieve their masters’ degree. Internet-based learning provides flexibility to at personally convenient times. Internet-based learning also provides opportunity to take time to compose thoughts or ideas contributed in class on newsgroups which is the asynchronous type of web-based instruction.

Furthermore, it enables interaction with classmates in different locations with the help of audio CDs, Video CDs, and real time text. Using hardware to provide education is synchronous communication. Internet-based learning reduces the cost of travelling to attend lectures. Students using the Internet-based learning style tend to have wider range of opinions and views about some of the discussion made. Students are able to progress in a course at their pace and in order of their own personal needs [5]. Limitation of Internet – Based learning Everything in this world comes with positive and negative points.

Similarly Web Based Training also has its share of disadvantages and limitations. Some of the limitations to internet based learning in that it reduces face to face interactions by making it impossible for the student to ask questions because answers can’t?? be provided. When the student is not motivated, it leads to drop out. The cost of computer equipments and communication infrastructure may limit the number of students that can afford internet-based learning. The internet-based learning may be intimating or awkward for some students to use.

Students will have a lack of technical support in their homes to use the software tools needed in the course. Poor technical support or tutorial help can lead to incorrect usage of software tools needed to do assignments [5]. Definition of Traditional Classroom Learning The traditional classroom has been successful because it provides a means through which learning happens. Traditional classroom learning also called back-to-basics refers to a room especially designed and furnished to provide a favorable learning environment [6].

Advantages of Traditional Classroom Learning The advantage of traditional classroom learning is that it gives opportunity for students to get correct response from the teacher immediately a question is been asked. There is a room for the instructor to conduct secure assessments. Traditional classroom learning is closed and fairly free from outside distractions. It is fairly homogenous and concentrated. Another advantage of traditional classroom learning is that it provides students with a fixed schedule and specific periods dedicated exclusively to learning.

In a traditional classroom environment, learning begins with the teacher sharing his knowledge with students, proceeds with discussions between the teacher and the students and ends with the new information written in notebooks. The learning atmosphere of the traditional classroom helps them to stay focused and keeps them motivated [7]. Limitations of Traditional Classroom Learning Traditional training emphasizes passing tests, whether or not students understand the testing material. The learning process is thus devalued, and students are not encouraged to understand the methods, techniques and skills required to find answers.

It ignores individual learning differences between students. There is also no flexibility in traditional classroom learning. Not all students can afford to travel to the place where they get lectures, considering this, it may present an issue to financially challenged students [8]. Conclusion Traditional forms of education are being transformed as the Internet becomes the new medium for communication. Internet-based learning is a very good form of learning, but the introduction should not necessary mean that traditional classroom form of learning should be eliminated.

Internet-based learning should be used for lecturing and traditional classroom learning for the practical part of learning, workshop and labs. Combining both forms of learning (that is; internet-based learning and traditional classroom learning) will not be a bad idea at all that is, if applied carefully. Works Cited [1] Clark, Donald. “Defining eLearning. ” 8 December 2010. 2 June 2012 . [2] “Web-Based Instruction Defined. ” April 2011 . Learning Technologies at Virginia Tech. 2 June 2012 . [3] Rouse, Margaret. Web-based training (e-learning). ” 2005. SearchSOA. 2 June 2012 . [4] “INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY-SKILLS DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION (ICT-SDE). ” 2010. University of Mumbai. 2 June 2012 . [5] Quintana, Yuri. “Evaluating the Value and Effectiveness of Internet-Based Learning. ” isoc. org. 3 June 2012 . [6] “Traditional Education. ” 23 May 2012. Wikipedia. 3 June 2012 . [7] “Advantages & Disadvantages of Classroom Learning. ” 1999-2012. eHow. 3 June 2012 . [8] “Disadvantages of Traditional Classroom Training. ” 1999-2012. eHow. 3 June 2012 .