Impact of E-Learning in Secondary Schools Students

The development of technology and the Internet all over the world during the last decade has enabled new educational delivery methods like E-learning. It is the use of technology to enable people to learn anytime and anywhere. E-learning applications and processes include Web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual education opportunities and digital collaboration. stakeholders at different levels, such as researcher, practitioners and institutions understand the value of e-learning [Kira 2009], thus countries all over the world has adapted to this new delivery method, and Fiji as one of the developing countries has also joined them. The Universities in Fiji have already started using this method and by 2014 Fiji hopes to implement this education method in around 20 secondary school.

As online education gains in popularity, it becomes more important to recognize the inherent advantages and disadvantages offered by this medium[Richard Hauser 2012]. Timothy Rodgers [2008] also stated that as the use of e-learning is becoming more and more widespread in higher education it has become increasingly important to examine the impact that this teaching style has on student performance. There have been a number of researches conducted to prove numerous advantages of E-learning.

Firstly, E-learning is cost effective, for example, there are no travel costs. Melissa et al [2011]stated, access to online training is cost effective. Higgins [2012] also supported that by stating that e-learning can be effective for students as they do not need to travel and efficient in terms of time. Majority of the learners being middle aged education professionals and keen on professional development could take course that are offered through e-learning since it does not impinge upon their work times.[Shikha Raturi 2011]

Secondly, E-learning has Flexibility, Accessibility, and Convenience. Here the Learners can proceed through a training program at their own pace and at their