CHAPTER ONE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
ICTs are being applied in most areas of human life including education. The uses of ICTs in education system, according to Schank (2002) and Sambrook (2003), e-learning is “communication and learning activities through computers and networks (or via electronic means)â€. To be more specific, Fry (2000) defines e-learning as “delivery of training and education via networked interactivity and a range of other knowledge collection and distribution technologies.†Wild et al. (2002) also had the same definition as Fry’s – they defined e-learning as the creation and delivery of knowledge via online services in the form of information, communication, and education and training. Bleimann (2004) stated that e-learning is a self- directed learning that is based on technology, especially web-based technology. He also stressed that e-learning is collaborative learning. E-learning is commonly referred to the intentional use of networked information and communications technology in teaching and learning. A number of other terms are also used to describe this mode of teaching and learning. They include online learning, virtual learning, distributed learning, network and web based learning. Fundamentally, they all refer to educational processes that utilize information and communications technology to mediate asynchronous as well as synchronous learning and teaching activities. On closer scrutiny, however, it will be clear that these labels refer to slightly different educational processes and as such they cannot be used synonymously with the term e-learning. E-learning can also be referred to educational sites as those offering learning worksheets, scenarios and interactive exercises for children. The term is also used extensively in the business sector where it generally refers to cost effective online training.
E-learning comprises all forms of electronically supported learning and teaching. The information and communication systems, whether networked or not, serve as specific media to implement the learning process. The term will still most likely be utilized to reference out-of- classroom and in-classroom educational experiences via technology, even as advances continue in regard to devices and curriculum. E-learning applications and processes include Web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classroom opportunities and digital collaboration. Content is delivered via the Internet, intranet/extranet, audio or video tape, satellite TV, and CD- ROM. It can be self-paced or instructor-led and includes media in the form of text, image, animation, streaming video and audio.
Distance education or distance learning, is a field of education that focuses on teaching methods and technology with the aim of delivering teaching, often on an individual basis, to students who are not physically present in a traditional educational setting such as a classroom. It has been described as "a process to create and provide access to learning when the source of information and the learners are separated by time and distance, or both" Distance education courses that require a physical on-site presence for any reason have been referred to as hybrid or blended courses of study. Distance education dates to at least as early as 1728, when "an advertisement in the Boston Gazette named Caleb Phillips, Teacher of the new method of Short Hand" was seeking students for lessons to be sent weekly.
1.1 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
The students of University of Abuja had suffered many set back in the area of learning due to lack of electronic learning system operation in the institution, which has affected the quality of students and graduates the institution has been producing. Because the learning system that the institution is operating on, is manual so it is not good enough to produce high quality students and graduates that is expected of the institution.
1.2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
The aim of this project is to design an e-learning system for the University of Abuja that will enable the students of the institution perform the following activities electronically:
i. Allow students to view the timetable weekly: the implementation of
this project will help the students of the University of Abuja have access to download time table related to their field of study. This will prepare them for the semester on time.
ii. Enable students to download and read materials online: Over the time now, the students of the University have had issues trying to get detailed and organized materials as regards to their course of study in the University, but the implementation of this project will help students to easily download and read materials in order to acquire knowledge in their related fields.
iii. To depict a well documented course outline and description: Students will also be able to view their courses and course outline and description of any selected courses.
1.3 SCOPE AND LIMITATION
The scope of the project entails students of the University having access to acquire knowledge online by downloading or reading e-books (materials), view course description and outline, view timetable. The main limitation is that, non-registered students shall be given a limited access to the portal (not being able to have access to the learning resources).
1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY
This project on computerized teaching and learning is essentially electronic learning and is delivered through a computer. It incorporates innovative and creative approaches to instruction and provides unprecedented access to resources and information. This e-Learning has substantial significance and offers unique opportunities for people who might otherwise have limited access to education and training.
1. E-Learning is self-directed and self-paced. Learners control the amount of time they spend on any particular topic. This allows learners to spend additional time on difficult items before moving on or to skip material they already understand. This “individualized†approach usually allows learners to complete their education and training faster than in traditional courses.
2. E-Learning is flexible. Learning can take place anytime and anywhere, as
long as the necessary equipment is accessible. The logistics and expense of face-to-face education and training can be extremely limiting when students are separated by distance. E- Learning also allows physically or otherwise challenged students to more fully participate.
1.5 ORGANIZATION OF REPORT
The project chapters are organized as follows; Chapter One discussed the Introduction of this project, aims and objectives, methodology etc, Chapter Two reviews literature on e-learning, web based learning and distance learning, Chapter three explained the System Analysis and Design, Chapter Four discussed the Implementation of the System and Documentation while Chapter Five discussed Summary of findings, Recommendation, Conclusion and References.
