E-Learning Prototype
Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Background of the study E-learning is a very broad term. It is commonly used to describe any type of learning environment that is computer enhanced. There are multiple technologies that can be employed in E-learning. It has become one of those types of words that are generally have lost some of its meaning. Distance learning is something that has evolved from E-learning. It is used to describe on a learning environment that takes place away from the actual traditional classroom and campus. (Aranda, 2005) E-learning and distance learning are not the same concept although they are quite similar. The basic thing that distinguishes distance education is the physical separation of the student from the instructor and the class room. E-learning, however, became part of the classroom environment from the beginning. The early use of computers was geared to help the classroom instructor. Gradually, as more and more personal computers became available, the ideas of online classes were explored by some pioneering Colleges and Universities. The early attempts of distance education were hampered by resistance from traditionalist within the education field. E-learning is a universal term for all "electronically-supported learning and teaching system". It is a method or an approach that utilizes ICT to support, enhance, enrich, and extend the whole teaching and learning experience. In a global setting, many universities and colleges have started adopting e-learning in the delivery of their instructions. From the report entitled “Regional Report 2008 on ASEAN University-Level e-learning”, (Charmonman, 2008) presented different universities and colleges that take initiatives on e-learning. The College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University of Thailand is the only ASEAN member of the Sloan Consortium (Sloan-C), an international organization that promotes excellence in e-learning. For the university level, it was reported that the
INTRODUCTION
Background of the study E-learning is a very broad term. It is commonly used to describe any type of learning environment that is computer enhanced. There are multiple technologies that can be employed in E-learning. It has become one of those types of words that are generally have lost some of its meaning. Distance learning is something that has evolved from E-learning. It is used to describe on a learning environment that takes place away from the actual traditional classroom and campus. (Aranda, 2005) E-learning and distance learning are not the same concept although they are quite similar. The basic thing that distinguishes distance education is the physical separation of the student from the instructor and the class room. E-learning, however, became part of the classroom environment from the beginning. The early use of computers was geared to help the classroom instructor. Gradually, as more and more personal computers became available, the ideas of online classes were explored by some pioneering Colleges and Universities. The early attempts of distance education were hampered by resistance from traditionalist within the education field. E-learning is a universal term for all "electronically-supported learning and teaching system". It is a method or an approach that utilizes ICT to support, enhance, enrich, and extend the whole teaching and learning experience. In a global setting, many universities and colleges have started adopting e-learning in the delivery of their instructions. From the report entitled “Regional Report 2008 on ASEAN University-Level e-learning”, (Charmonman, 2008) presented different universities and colleges that take initiatives on e-learning. The College of Internet Distance Education of Assumption University of Thailand is the only ASEAN member of the Sloan Consortium (Sloan-C), an international organization that promotes excellence in e-learning. For the university level, it was reported that the