Brief History of eLearning

eLearning is a term, used to describe any type of learning environment enhanced by computer technology. It began at just about the same time that a PC was developed, however there are many technologies that can be employed in eLearning. Television, video recorders, and even radio have all made a contribution to it.

Evolved from distance learning it was predated by it by almost 100 years. Since 1840 in England shorthand classes were being offered by correspondence courses through the mail. As the postal service improved in the early part of the 20th century, this method of distance learning became even more popular and the number of “through the mail” type of educational programs increased.

The main distinguishing feature of distance education is the physical separation of the student from the tutor and the class room. eLearning, however, became part of the classroom environment from at the dawn of its development. Computers only made distance learning more convenient. The early use of PC technology was employed to help the classroom instructor. As more and more personal computers became available, the idea of online classes was taken over by some pioneering Colleges and Universities. Despite its obvious advantages, the early attempts at distance education were hampered by resistance from traditionalists within the education field.

They appealed to what they called the philosophy of education and claimed that the teacher was essential to the educational process. This confrontation hasn’t stopped the development of eLearning, but led to its serious underestimation: degrees, obtained online, were considered inferior to the traditional ones. Inevitably, this prejudice extended to the recruiting departments of major companies. So, choosing between a person, holding a traditional degree and an equally qualified specialist who studied online, employers were conservative - they favored traditional degrees.

Fortunately, in recent years the situation has changed dramatically. The ability to create virtual classrooms, general improvements in eLearning technology and a virtual learning environment (VLE) has gradually broken down the resistance. The new generation which is totally computerized have also contributed to that. It is now possible that next century specialists with an online degree will be preferred and coveted