Revolutions have always begun from the world of words and ideas. It comes as no surprise that education is breaking all predefined boundaries to weave its own attractive web in the Internet. The term “E-Learning” was coined in the late 1990s to describe the use of technology to deliver learning and training programs. E-Learning is a term that means something different to almost everyone who uses it. Some think only of web-based self-study while others realize E-Learning can encompass real-time learning and collaboration. E-learning is the unifying term to describe the fields of online learning, web-based learning, and technology-delivered instructions. E-Learning does not require physical classroom attendance. Via the Internet, the learning experience is delivered to the user personably and effectively. We are all familiar with classroom-based learning (c-Learning) which is face-to-face group learning led by an instructor or subject matter expert. In E-Learning environments learners interact with learning materials, their instructors and other learners from various locations and often at various times using network technologies. It has been said that there are two reasons why we learn; some leaning is essentially forced on us while the other is what we sit back and enjoy. E-Learning has brought back the joy in learning through its innovative, interactive content and delivery.

Definition

The development of the E-learning revolution arose from a number of other ‘educational revolutions’. Four such revolutions are :

• The invention of reading & writing.

• The emergence of the profession of teacher/scholar.

• The development of moveable type (print technology).

• The development of electronic technology.

E-Learning is the effective learning process created by combining digitally delivered content with (learning) support and services. It can be defined as;

• The convergence of the Internet and learning, or Internet-enabled learning.

• The use of network technologies to create fosters, deliver, and facilitate learning, anytime and anywhere.

• The delivery of individualized, comprehensive, dynamic learning content in real time, aiding the development of communities of knowledge, linking learning learners and practitioners with experts.