E-Learning and Management Education at African Universities

Evolution Of E-Learning

The roots of present day E-learning within higher education can be traced back to conventional distance education or Online learning. Harasim (2000) argues that Online learning, is known to have a history of access beginning in the 1980's whereas another term, referred to as e-Learning, does not have its origins fully disclosed. According to Moore, Dickson-Deane and Galyen (2011) the origins of the term e-Learning is not certain, although it is suggested that the term most likely originated during the 1980's, within the similar time frame of another delivery mode online learning. Nichols (2003) defines E-learning as the use of various technological tools that are Web-based, Web-distributed or Web-capable for the purposes of education. According to Daly and Pachler (2010) E-learning is a set of practices which enhance the potential of people to learn with others via technology-aided interaction, in contexts which can be “free” of barriers of time and place. It involves the utilisation of a range of digital resources-visual, auditory and text-based- which enable learners to access, create and publish material which serves educational purposes… this material can be shared electronically with fellow learners and teachers both within and beyond the bounds of formal education contexts. Moll et al. (2007) defined e-Learning as ‘flexible learning using ICT resources, tools and applications, focusing on accessing information, interaction among teachers, learners, and the online environment collaborative learning, and production of materials, resources and learning experiences’.