44 better to offer content in different formats including text, audio or video. To check
the learner‟s understandings, then various kinds of tests or quizzes are also given.
2.1.4.2.5 Advantages and Disadvantages of E-learning
The rapid movement towards e-learning is undeniable. There are many advantages which are offered by technology through online and computer-based
learning when compared to traditional face-to-face courses and lectures. According to Watson 2008, the advantage to online learning is its combination
of rich student-teacher-peer communication and interaction, either synchronous or asynchronous, and robust personalized teaching within instructor-led courses.
Students may select related learning materials based on their level of knowledge and interest. It is flexible and effective, too. Students can arrange the schedule
themselves and they can study anywhere, anytime and any pace as long as they have the access to a computer and the Internet connection.
Moreover, e-learning also creates a single experience that accommodates the three distinct learning styles of auditory learners, visual learners, and
kinesthetic learners. E-learning can locate and target individual learning preferences. Additionally, synchronous e-learning is self-paced. The learning
modules presented on e-learning allow students to work at their own pace and capacity. In these ways, e-learning is inclusive of a maximum number of
participants with a maximum range of learning styles, preferences, and needs. By
completing online or computer-based courses, students are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning. Students will develop their own self-knowledge
45 and self-confidence in using the Internet and computers skills so that their lives
and careers will be better in the future. On the other hand, e-learning has also some limitations. First, the worst
fears when dealing with CALL and e-learning has always been the social aspect. It has been believed that the computer mediated community would imply some
lack of social relations. The interaction between students and teachers cannot really happen as often as in traditional classes. Some students may feel isolated
from the instructor and classmates. When students need help, teachers may not always be available and give help directly.
Second, not all of teachers and students are ready and have good capability in using technology. Managing online learning software can sometimes seem
complicated and difficult for teachers and students with beginner-level computer skills. Some teachers and students still feel more comfortable in doing traditional
face-to-face methods in learning new things. They still have technophobia and need more time to have computer literacy and use technology to support their life.
Without the routine structures of a traditional class, students may get lost or confused about course activities and deadlines. Students who are not discipline
with low motivation and bad study habits may fall behind and feel demotivated. Third, the slow the Internet connections or older computers may make
accessing course materials frustrating. Fourth, some materials which are designed for one particular system will not function properly on another for example, the
Apple Macintosh and the Windows PC. Fifth, not all of the courses could be supplemented by e-learning. Any skills that rely heavily on inter-personal contact
46 need to be supported by teachers directly. Even though computers become very
helpful in supporting teaching-learning process, they will never completely eliminate all human instructors and other forms of educational delivery.
2.1.5 Blended Learning
