Assessing the Impact of E-Learning Platforms in Selected SEWA Schools in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

What is E-Learning?

E-learning is broadly defined as “learning which utilizes web-based communication, collaboration, multimedia, knowledge transfer, and training to support learners’ active learning without time and space barriers” (Lee et al 2009, 2). Blended E-Learning can be defined as a mix “between any form of instructional technology…with classroom teaching”. It can be seen as a combination of online and face-to-face instruction as well as a “convergence between traditional face-to-face learning and e-learning environments” (Wu et al. 2010, S156). SMS will mostly be using a Blended E-Learning environment in its Community Learning Centers, and a traditional E-Learning approach when expanding to other countries.

What are the benefits of E-Learning?

There are many benefits associated with E-Learning. It can be used to tailor lessons according to learner responses, much like a tutor or instructor can modify teaching sessions according to the needs of a learner (Clark & Mayer, 2010). Multiple studies have also shown that E-Learning outcomes can match and exceed traditional face-to-face teaching outcomes, if the course is well designed. E-Learning offers time and location flexibility for learners, and can be spread to a global audience who can receive lessons online. Lessons can be retrieved and reviewed multiple times by learners, as opposed to traditional classes, which are a one-time occurrence (Zhang 2003, 2). For learners, E-Learning can result in “better content delivery, personalized instruction, content standardization, accountability, on-line availability, self-pacing, interactivity, confidence and increased convenience” (Bhuasiri et al. 2012, 843). For educators, e learning can allow for a consistent and standardized way to deliver content (Zhang et al. 2004).

E-Learning can also help bridge the digital and educational divide, which is especially acute in Asia. There are 518 million illiterate adults in Asia and the Pacific, 65% of whom are women. India also has the largest number of illiterate adults in Asia, at 283 million (“Staying…” 2011). Only .5% of Indians have a broadband connection, a rate that is among the lowest in Asia (“A regional….” 2010). E-Learning can be used to counter those trends; in developing countries, E-Learning is primarily used to educate poorer students (Bhuasiri et al. 2012, 844). By allowing for a widespread delivery of courses, E-Learning can bring education to the masses and reach traditionally marginalized populations. Further, since rural education is an important aspect in national development, E-Learning can be used to reach rural groups that may not have access to urban educational opportunities (Murthy et al. 2008). In fact, the International Center for Entrepreneurship and Career Development, based in Ahmedabad, plans to reach 2,000 villages in Gujarat with an E-Learning format (“E-Learning…” 2008). The format relies heavily on video-conferencing, much like the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) program at a few of SEWA’s Community Learning Centers.