E-learning for all

So does e-learning have the potential to become a mass medium? The experts seem to think so. According to Gartmore’s Angela Brier, “I don't believe there is such as thing as a good e-learner as everyone can learn this way. Some just need more guidance, encouragement and support than others.” Xebec’s Martine Garland thinks similarly: “I believe it is largely down to motivation. Yes there are some learning/cognitive styles that suit e-learning better, but if the 'desire' is strong enough anyone will e-learn.”

Mary Benwell is a Director of learndirect: “There is still far too much about users that we have not yet surfaced. This is because much of what we know about learning processes has been deduced without any e-component and also because the really magic e-materials, designed to drive by process rather than content, are not quite there yet. We are not yet at the stage, if we take a transport analogy, where people accept that you might have to leave the ground (classroom/blackboard) to do it better, rather than sticking to the wheels!”

Gleadall believes it’s just a matter of time: “As the world becomes more reliant on and comfortable with computers, more people will turn to e-learning, as it fits more easily into a busy life. I think peoples’ feelings and perceptions will need to change – not e-learning itself.”