• Delivery method:   Due the fact that people learn in different ways and at different times, it became necessary to develop different e-learning delivery methods to meet different learning needs that are be managed differently. Consequently,  many names are synonymous with e-learning, these are Computer-Based Learning (CBL), Computer-Based Teaching (CBT), Computer-Based Training (CBT),  Computer-Based Instruction (CBI), Computer-Managed Instructions (CMI), Computer-Assisted Instructions (CAI), Internet-Based Training (IBT), Web-Based Training (WBT), Online education, Online Training, Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL), Technology-Enhanced Training (TET), Multimedia Learning,  Virtual Education, Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), Mobile Learning (M-Learning),  Digital Educational Collaboration (DEC), Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC), Cyber-Learning, Multi-Modal Instruction (MMI)   and Digital Education. These names are based on different digital technology approach (medium) for delivery educational contents. However, most of these terms overlap. The main beauty of these technologies is that they aid teaching and learning anywhere and anytime and can be used for delivery training, information and guidance from subject-matter experts to learners.

• Online and real time (Synchronous and asynchronous): E-learning is very flexible and can be used in/out of classroom. It can be used in conjunction with face-to-face teaching and learning (which is referred to as Blended Learning) and can be used for distance learning without face-to-face teaching.  If the teaching and learning takes place during the same period of time, it is called Synchronous learning.  Synchronous learning involves online real-time exchange of knowledge where everyone works collaboratively at the same time and some examples are face-to-face discussions between teachers/facilitators and students/participants, telephone (teleconferencing) conversations, videoconferencing,  chat rooms and so on.  Therefore, E-learning can be incorporated into a formal educational system and used by teachers to teach, assess their learners/students and award marks. This can be extended to corporate trainings in organizations. Synchronous learning is good for learners that have the time to interact with their facilitators and colleges.

E-Learning can also be used as an informal learning method to acquire some knowledge and skill, in which it can be a self-study and self-pace learning without a facilitator or the facilitator is not online exchanging knowledge and ideas in real-time .  This is called Asynchronous learning. This include self-studying, reading of books and using computing technologies like email, blogs, online books, audio and video course or CD-ROMs, etc. This is a flexible learning method for a person that does not have the time to be engaged online and real time in order to learn because of work or other responsibilities, It enable him/her to learn at their own pace with less stress. They can to listen to a lecture CD-ROM or watch a lecture video and read a book as often as they require without disturbing other participants.

It is necessary to note that for a learner to learn effectively using both the asynchronous and synchronous methods, he/she must be self-motivation, self-discipline, and has the ability to communicate in writing effectively

Augustus ZEKARYAH.