An evaluation of E-learning in Algerian Universities from the perspective of

students and professors

Benmalek Sarah
 1. Learning

1.1. What is learning?

“The acquisition of knowledge or skills through study, experience, or being taught.” (Oxford
dictionary, n.d). This definition highlights the importance of education and personal
development through various means. It emphasizes that learning is not limited to one specific
method and can happen in different ways throughout one’s life.
learning is also not just about gaining knowledge or skills, but rather a process that leads to
change, which occurs as a result of experience (Rodriguez, R. 2011) that can change an
individual's perspective, behavior, and way of thinking, this leads to an improved and enriched
mindset that can help with future learning. Therefore, learning and experience are a major key
for an ongoing personal development and growth.
Now, learning is not confined to Formal education and is not limited to a certain age group, one
can learn at any time and any place. School education is just one aspect of learning, and it is not
the only mean of acquiring knowledge and skills (Oxford university press, n.d), It is an ongoing
process. Individuals can also learn through other methods, such as reading books and whatnot,
watching videos, personal experiences, social interactions, and exposure to new environments.
In conclusion, learning is a continuous, ongoing and lifelong process that involves acquiring
knowledge and skills in different ways. Additionally, learning leads to change and is essential for
personal and professional growth. Although school education is an essential aspect of learning,
it isn’t limited to any age or setting, there are other ways of acquiring knowledge and skills.
Learning occurs at any time during someone’s life.

1.2. Learning theories and principles

1.2.1. Learning theories

Learning theories are ideas that explain how we learn and develop new knowledge, abilities,
and actions. We use these theories to form teaching programs, strategies, and methods. There
are different learning theories that explain how we learn, and these are some of the most
commonly used ones.
Behaviorism is a learning theory that is founded on the belief that knowledge is personal and
external to the individual. This theory says that learning is essentially the process of linking a
stimulus with a response. From the perspective of a behaviorist, “the learner is seen as a blank
slate” that needs to be provided with the information to be learned (Becton Loveless, 2002),
This means that learning is viewed as process that involves the acquisition of knowledge from
external sources.
One of the most well-known examples of behaviorism is Pavlov's dog experiment, in which
Pavlov conditioned his dog to salivate at the sound of a ringing bell. This experiment
demonstrated how a stimulus (the sound of the bell) could become associated with a natural
response (salivating) through a repeated and unconditioned stimulus (food). This example
illustrates how behaviorists view learning as a process of association between stimuli and
responses, rather than a more complex cognitive process involving internal mental states.
Cognitive learning theory takes a different approach to learning compared to behaviorism.
Rather than a stimulus-response process, cognitive learning theory focuses on the mental
processes involved in learning. According to this theory, learning occurs when individuals
acquire new information or adapt old information to explain something (Becton Loveless,
2002). This change in knowledge is not seen as a change in behavior, but rather is viewed as a
change that is kept in the person’s memory. In other words, the focus is on understanding how
the mind processes information, and how this leads to changes in knowledge and
understanding. The goal of cognitive learning is to enable students to engage in a better way of
thinking and problem-solving, and to develop thinking skills that will help them throughout
their lives.
Constructivism is a learning theory that proposes that individuals learn and acquire knowledge
through their interactions with the real world and the environment around them. In
educational settings, this theory suggests that students construct their own understanding of
the world by integrating what they are being taught with their existing knowledge. As a result,
the learning experience for each student is unique and individualized (Five Educational Learning
Theories, 2020). This theory emphasizes that by actively engaging in the learning process,
students are able to build their own knowledge and make connections between new
information and their prior experiences. Ultimately, constructivism encourages educators to
provide and push their students to take the upper hand in their own way of learning.
Humanism is a learning theory that emphasis on the concept of self-actualization. It proposes
that students should be provided with an environment that meets their needs, which in turn
empowers them to develop their own personal objectives. By creating “a safe and comfortable
place to learn” (Five Educational Learning Theories, 2020), students are able to be more
engaged with the learning process. Humanism also highlights the importance of positive
interpersonal relationships between students and teachers, and the role that these
relationships play in creating a positive and supportive learning environment. Ultimately, the
humanistic approach to learning encourages educators to focus on the whole student and to
create opportunities for students to develop their full potential as individuals.
Finally, one of the most recent theories is connectivism. Connectivism is a modern learning
theory that relies heavily on technology. It encourages students to use technology to update
their knowledge and gain new information. By using this theory in the classroom, teachers can
strengthen relationships with their students and inspire and motivate them to learn. This
approach emphasizes on the fact that the usage of these tools will facilitate and improve the
students' learning experience. With the use of technology, students are able to access a
tremendous amount of information and work with classmates and peers in new and exciting
ways. Ultimately, connectivism aims to enable students to become independent learners by
giving them with the necessary tools and resources to excel. This approach gives students the
freedom to explore their own interests and learning capabilities. By empowering students to
take control of their own learning, connectivism helps to create a sense of self-motivation,
which is an essential and important skill to have.

1.2.2. Learning principles

Learning principles are a collection of concepts and characteristics that has been identified by
educational psychology and psychologists. These principles were found to be effective in
creating a successful learning experience. These principles are intended to provide guidance to
educators to enhance their way of teaching. (Principles of learning, n.d).
The first principle being covered is participation. Participation is a fundamental learning
principle that emphasizes the importance of active engagement in the learning process. When
learners actively participate with the material, they are more likely to understand and retain
the information that they’ve learned. Participation can take many forms, such as asking
questions, participating in discussions or class, or working on group projects; this helps learners
to develop a deeper understanding of the concepts being presented. Participation also provides
learners with the opportunity to practice and apply their new skills, which reinforces their
learning. A great example is that people tend to remember how to ride a bicycle even after a
long time has passed, and this is because they were actively engaged in the learning process
(teach mint. 2022)
Even though repetition is not enjoyable for most people, it is a learning principle that involves
repeating information or skills multiple to become more familiar and make it easier to
remember (teach mint. 2022). Repetition can take many forms, such as reviewing notes,
practicing skills, or re-reading material. The use of repetition can help learners to identify areas
where they might be needing more practice, helping them to focus on improving areas where
they are lacking. This is commonly seen in educational learning, where students use repetition
to prepare for tests or exams, when learning to play an instrument, or learning a new language,
repetition is a necessity.
Relevance, just like all principles, is crucial. It focuses on the importance of connecting new
material being taught to the learners' interests. When learners are able to see the relevance of
new information to their lives or goals, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated to
learn the what’s being presented (teach mint. 2022). By tailoring the material and relating it to
the learners' needs and interests, teachers and professors can make learning more relevant.
Making the material relevant can also enhance learners' motivation to learn and can help to
create a positive learning environment hence, seeing the importance of what they are learning,
it is more likely for them to be interested, engaged, and invested in the learning process.
Therefore, the principle of relevance ensures that learners are motivated, and able to apply
what they have learned to their own lives. (Learning Principle of Training, n.d)
Transference refers to the ability to apply what has been learned in a real-world situation. It is
essential to ensure that the students can use the skills and knowledge that they have acquired
from the learning environment to the real-world. There are three different transference
outcomes. positive, negative, and zero transference. Positive transference occurs when learners
are able to apply their skills and knowledge in new situations and therefore experience a
positive outcome. An easy example would be someone taking a CPR training course and then
successfully performs CPR on a real-life victim. The skills and knowledge gained during the
training course are applied in a real-world situation. Negative transference, on the other hand,
occurs when the application of skills and knowledge results in a negative outcome. For
example, if someone who only learned how to drive an automatic car, the transfer to manual
would not be possible. When learners are unable to apply what they have learned in one
context to another context that is zero transference which results in no significant impact on
their performance. For example, learning a particular mathematical formula but not being able
to use it real world situations. (5 learning principles, n.d)
Finally, we have feedback. Feedback is essential for learners to understand their progress and
improve their performance. It not only helps learners to identify and correct their mistakes but
also reinforces positive behavior and encourages them to continue with effective learning
strategies. Ultimately, there are several ways for educators to give feedback to support learners
in achieving their learning goals and becoming more efficient in their studies, like written or
verbal feedback and even grades. (5 learning principles, n.d)

1.3. Learning strategies

Learning is a process that involves acquiring and processing new information that is given to
students throughout their school education years. However, not all students have the same
approach or method of learning. Different strategies may work for different people, depending
on their personal preferences and which learning style fits them the most. Therefore, students
often use a combination of techniques to maximize their learning experience, and here are
some of them.
One popular strategy is rehearsal, which involves repetition, highlighting, memorization, or
taking personal notes. Rehearsal helps students retain information by reviewing it regularly,
making connections between ideas, and creating a deeper understanding of the subject. By
using repetition, it allows students to review and increase the chances of them remembering
information. Highlighting important information can help draw attention to key points and
make it easier to review later on when revising. Personal note taking forces students to
summarize and pinpoint the most important part of the course using their own words, it is also
very helpful for visual learners, who learn through seeing. Even though rehearsal has its perks,
it is not for everyone. Some find it hard to repeat especially if the material is not completely
understood, this could lead to surface learning, which occurs when student just cluelessly
memorize what’s been given to them without fully grasping it (Dolmans, D. H., Loyens, S. M.,
Marcq, H., & Gijbels, D. 2016).
Elaboration is a learning strategy that helps students to understand the meaning of the
material, to create a more personal connection to the subject, and to link prior information
with new ones. This can be achieved through a variety of techniques such as paraphrasing,
using new words, asking questions, and creating metaphors or analogies. Paraphrasing is all
about reformulating information in one’s own words, which can have similar benefits as
persona note taking. Using new words can help to enrich vocabulary and help with
comprehending the material better. Metaphors and analogies can help to connect new
information to familiar concepts and aid in storing it all.
Structuring and categorizing information in order make it more meaningful and easier to
remember is what we call “organization”. This can be achieved through techniques such as
outlining, creating tables, classifying, and regrouping information. By outlining main points and
sub-points, the information will be organized and summarized in a logical way. Classification is
grouping information that are related together based on common properties and features, this
helps maintain order in your notes for later on. Regrouping involves restructuring and grouping
it information to see it in a new way, easier and better way. By using these techniques, students
can improve their comprehension and make it more time efficient since it helps them recall and
find information more easily when needed.
Students that use metacognition are aware and understand their own learning processes and
progress. It gives them the ability to reflect on their own learning experiences, evaluate their
strengths and weaknesses, and develop strategies to improve learning. Metacognition can be a
powerful tool for enhancing learning outcomes, as it allows students to monitor their own
progress and adjust their strategy a needed. Students who are metacognitive are more likely to
identify and correct errors, learn more efficiently, and retain information for longer periods of
time. Using metacognition will result into students becoming more independent and effective
learners, that are able to take ownership of their own learning and achieve their academic goals
with their own efforts.
Motivation is a crucial aspect of learning, and it plays a significant role in students' success
consequently there are motivational strategies that help students to stay motivated and
engaged in their learning. These strategies include time management, reducing stress and
anxiety, and setting and achieving goals. Time management is a key motivational strategy, as it
helps students to prioritize their tasks and stay organized. This is achieved by creating a
schedule, setting deadlines, and breaking down tasks into smaller and manageable ones.
Reducing stress and anxiety is another important motivational strategy, high levels of stress can
interfere with learning and lead to burnout. Students can use techniques such as meditation,
exercise, getting enough sleep and good nutrition to reduce stress and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Finally, setting and achieving goals provides students with a sense of purpose and direction.
Whether it's getting a good grade on an exam, completing a project, or mastering a new skill, by
setting goals, students can work towards a specific goal and track their progress along the way
In conclusion, there are many strategies that students can use to enhance their learning
experience. However, the key is to find the techniques that work best for each individual's
learning style and needs. By combining and adapting different strategies, students can develop
their own personalized and unique approach to learning and achieve academic success that
they have set.
(Ali Simsek, Jale Balaban, 2010)

1.4. Learning outcomes

We learn every day, even if we're not always aware of it. Learning doesn't just happen in a
classroom or formal setting. We're constantly taking in new information and making sense of
the world around us, learning is therefore essential to personal and professional growth, and it
can bring numerous outcomes that will have a positive impact on an individual's life.
The most apparent outcome of learning is the gain of new skills and knowledge. By learning
new information, individuals can expand their understanding of the world around them and
apply this newfound knowledge to improve their personal and professional lives. For instance,
in a professional setting, someone who continuously learns and updates their skills is more
attractive to potential employers and has a better chance of advancing in their careers. For
example, learning new technology or software can make them more efficient in their work. In
addition to professional benefits, learning can also be applied to personal interests and
hobbies. For example, learning a new language can open up opportunities for travel and
cultural experiences, while learning to play an instrument or paint can provide a creative outlet
and enhance personal fulfillment. In conclusion Learning is an effective way to enhance an
individual's knowledge and skills, providing them with the tools they need to succeed in various
aspects of their lives. As someone learns and acquires new skills, they develop a sense of
accomplishment that can positively impact their self-perception. The feeling of mastering a new
concept or skill can boost an individual's confidence, making them feel more capable and self-
assured in their abilities. Increased self-esteem can lead to improved interpersonal
relationships, as individuals who feel good about themselves are more likely to engage in
positive social interactions. Furthermore, increased confidence and self-esteem can lead to a
more positive outlook on life, which can have a significant impact on overall well-being.
Individuals who feel capable and confident in their abilities are more likely to take on new
challenges and pursue their goals with determination and resilience.
Another outcome of learning is the procurement of a degree which is a very important and final
step of your education.
One of the key benefits of earning a degree which is shared with the gain of skills and
knowledge is the lead to improved and easier career prospects. When individuals acquire a
higher level of education, they become more attractive to potential employers, who may see
them as having a more advanced set of skills and knowledge. This can lead to more job
opportunities and higher chances of advancement within their chosen field.
With a degree, a graduate is also more eligible for higher-paying jobs that require advanced
education or specialized skills. For example, a person with a degree in computer science may be
better positioned to pursue careers in software engineering or data science, where they can
earn a high salary. Earning a degree can also lead to increased job stability. It is less likely for
highly graduated individuals to experience job loss or unemployment, as they are more
qualified and in-demand in their field.
Finally, earning a degree can contribute to personal growth and development. Through the
process of pursuing a degree, we are exposed to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences,
which can foster a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around us. In getting a
degree is important for a variety of reasons therefore getting a degree can be a transformative
experience that leads to greater career success, personal fulfillment, and a deeper sense of
knowledge and understanding, which is why a lot of people question whether acquiring a
degree through online classes is just as beneficial and favorable as traditional classroom
learning.

2. What is E-learning

E-learning, which is the process of acquiring knowledge through digital or electronic resources,
has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the convenience and accessibility of
technology. Individuals can use devices such as laptops, smartphones, or tablets to access
educational materials and courses, making e-learning more accessible than traditional
classroom-based education. This accessibility has become even more important as remote
learning and distance education have become more common. (Sander Tamm, 2020)
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, e-learning is defined as learning done by studying at
home using computers and courses provided on the internet. This definition emphasizes the
convenience of e-learning, as individuals can access courses from anywhere with an internet
connection. The use of the internet and information and communication technologies (ICTs) has
made e-learning possible, and it has become an increasingly popular way of teaching.
There are different types of e-learning, including asynchronous and synchronous learning.
Asynchronous learning is a more flexible and laid-back approach to learning that allows learners
to access and download courses at any time. However, it is all done within a specific time
frame. On the other hand, synchronous learning is more similar to traditional teaching where
learners attend real-time classes, for example, through video conferences, webinars, or online
lectures. (S Hrastinski, 2008)
Consequently, e-learning is an internet-based way of learning and teaching that has become
increasingly popular due to its flexibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. It is a versatile
approach to education that can be modified to meet the needs of learners and educators alike.
As the use of technology and digital resources continues to grow, it is likely that e-learning will
become even more widespread in the coming years. While there are many different ways to
define and describe e-learning, it is clear that it is an important aspect of modern education
that is here to stay.

3. The benefits/advantages of e-learning for students

E-learning has been steadily gaining popularity in recent years and has become the preferred
mode of learning for many students and even teachers. The flexibility it provides in terms of
access to the course material is one of its primary advantages. Unlike traditional classroom
learning, where students have to attend classes at a specific time and place, e-learning allows
students to access course content at any time and from anywhere. They can review lectures,
assignments, and course materials at their own pace and convenience, enabling them to
manage their learning schedule more effectively
Students who learn through e-learning have a higher retention rate compared to traditional
classroom learning. After the COVID-19 pandemic, students were able to retain 25% to 60%
more material through e-learning than traditional teaching (Edubirdie, 2021). This is because e-
learning allows students to access course content multiple times, enabling them to better
understand and maintain the material. This benefit of e-learning is particularly important in a
time where students are easily overwhelmed with the amount of information that there is.
Another advantage of e-learning is that it saves time for students. With e-learning, students do
not have to commute to school, saving them both time and money. They can learn from the
comfort of their own home, which allows them to concentrate better during classes. Students
can benefit from getting some extra sleep by waking up later than usual, which can have a
positive impact on their concentration and performance during the course. As a result, e-
learning can improve students attendance rates and help them to be more engaged and
focused during classes (Priyanka Gautam,2020).
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, e-learning offers a level of privacy that is not
always possible in traditional classroom learning. Some students may feel uncomfortable asking
questions in front of their classmates or lecturers. E-learning provides a safe and private
environment where students can ask questions and interact with their instructors without
feeling intimidated. This can help students build their confidence and improve their
participation in class.
In conclusion, e-learning offers many benefits to students. It allows students to access course
content at their own pace and convenience. E-learning saves time and money by eliminating
the need to commute to school, and can improve students’ attendance rates. Additionally, e-
learning provides a safe and private learning environment, which can help students build their
confidence and participation in class. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that e-
learning will become an even more popular and effective mode of learning in the future.

4. The benefits/advantages of e-learning for professors

E-learning has become a popular teaching approach for both students and teachers due to its
multiple benefits. While e-learning is often praised for its positive impact on student learning
outcomes, it also has several advantages for teachers.
In the past, teaching only took place in a physical classroom, with limited access to resources
and limited student engagement. However, with the e-learning, teachers are now able to
connect with their students outside the classroom and provide them with support whenever
they need it. This increased connectivity means that teachers can better track their students'
progress and provide them with unique and personalized feedback.
Furthermore, e-learning provides teachers with more flexibility in their teaching methods,
allowing them to use different tools to enhance their students' learning experience. For
instance, teachers can use videos, quizzes, and other resources to engage their students and
help them understand new and difficult concepts.
Moreover, e-learning has made it easier for teachers to receive feedback from their students,
which is essential for their professional development. As mentioned earlier, teachers can easily
receive feedback from students through online platforms, which can help them improve their
teaching methods and improve the content they deliver. Receiving feedback can be a critical
part of teacher professional development, which can be enhanced with e-learning. (Zdrava
Stoeva. 2018)
Finally, e-learning is an environmentally friendly way of teaching, which is essential in today's
world where environmental sustainability is a big concern. With the use of electronic devices,
there is no need for printing, which reduces paper consumption and saves trees. This is a small
but significant step in reducing the environmental impact of education. Additionally, like
mentioned before, e-learning reduces the need for teachers to commute to school, leading to a
reduction in gas emissions.
In conclusion, e-learning is a powerful tool that provides numerous advantages for teachers. It
offers increased connectivity with students, greater flexibility in teaching methods, easier
feedback, and is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional classroom teaching. By
exploiting the benefits of e-learning, teachers can enhance their teaching methods and provide
their students with a more engaging and effective learning experience.

5. The obstacles and disadvantages of e-learning

5.1. Obstacles met by students for students

The rise of online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light several
advantages but also many obstacles, one of which is the difficulty in focusing on the screen for
a long period of time. 60% of US college students may be addicted to their cell phones, making
it easier for them to get distracted by social media or other sites while facing a screen for
several hours (J. Roberts, L. Yaya, and C. Manolis, 2014). Learners can also become easily
distracted, lose focus, and even motivation during online classes (Djamel Benadla and
Mohamed Hadji, 2021). Moreover, prolonged screen time can also be a hazard on the student's
health (Priyanka Gautam,2020). The blue light emitted by electronic screens can cause sleep
disturbances and even potentially cause long-term damage to the eyes. These factors could
affect students' academic performance and mental and physical health. It is essential to
acknowledge and highlight these problems and finding solutions to overcome them to ensure a
healthy learning experience for students.
Technical and technological difficulties are another challenge for online students. In some
countries, such as Algeria, getting a speedy and reliable internet connection can be challenging.
This issue can lead to future problems in the student's learning process, as they may not have
access to the important resources and materials. Moreover, technical difficulties and
malfunctions can disrupt the learning process and cause frustration for students who are
already having a hard with the transition from in traditional teaching to online learning.
The lack of face-to-face and physical interactions can also be a problem for students. Interacting
with others is an essential skill that students need to develop, as they will need to work with
others in various professional settings. Furthermore, the isolation induced by the lack of
physical interaction can impact a student's mental health and well-being in the long term. This
is also a huge problem for international students who may be far away from home and find it
challenging to form connections with their classmates.
Another challenge is slow and vague feedback from professors. In traditional teaching, students
receive immediate answers to their questions, which helps them to understand the subject
better. However, in online learning, the feedback process can be slower, which can impact a
student's ability to understand and assimilate the subjects being taught (Challenges of distance
learning for Teachers, 2021). Many students believe that the lack of interaction with their
teachers has been a hindrance to their ability to understand the subjects being taught. This
issue can be a significant obstacle for students, as they may struggle to keep up with their
coursework without proper guidance and feedback. (Djamel Benadla and Mohamed Hadji,
2021).

5.1.2. how to overcome these obstacles

A study shows that between 80% to 95% of undergraduates face complications with
procrastination and mobile phones play a big role in that problem (Shi M, Zhai X, Li S, Shi Y, Fan
X, 2021), this issue can be remedied by creating a space free from any external distractions,
including cell phones or social media notifications, to help maintain focus while studying. This
can be achieved by turning off phone notifications, using website blockers or apps that help
manage time spent on social media. Taking regular breaks can improve concentration and
productivity. Therefore, it is important to take breaks, stand up and stretch, and step away
from the screen every once in a while, to avoid study burnouts. Additionally, developing a
structured routine for studying and set specific goals can help students manage their time more
efficiently and create a healthy balance between screen time and other activities. It's important
to prioritize tasks and to avoid procrastination.
To overcome the sense of isolation, students can engage in virtual social interactions with
classmates using virtual platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Discord or take online quizzes and
practice exercises together, this can help students stay motivated and engaged in their
coursework.
Nonetheless, not all obstacles can be easily dealt with, for instance, Technological and technical
issues. These difficulties require specialized knowledge and expertise, and they can cause
significant disruptions to the students’ studies.
Finally, it is important to prioritize mental and physical wellness by seeking counseling or
mindfulness apps to support students' overall well-being.

5.2. Obstacles met by teachers

The internet connection has been a major obstacle for both teachers and students, especially in
public universities in Algeria. Only a few lucky teachers were able to deliver their lectures
through video conferences, representing a mere 2.2% of the total. (Djamel Benadla and
Mohamed Hadji, 2021). This means that most teachers and students in Algeria are still
struggling with the challenges of remote learning due to poor internet connectivity. In a
situation where large numbers of students (100 or more) are in a Zoom call, the system can
only hold up to a certain limit before it crashes, leading to delays in the learning process.
Consequently, students have to log in to the call earlier than the scheduled start time to secure
a spot, causing inconveniences.
Poor time management is an obstacle that can be faced by teachers in both distance learning
and traditional teaching settings. However, in distance learning, where the teacher has limited
time to engage with their students, this issue can be particularly challenging. With only a
limited amount of time to teach, it becomes essential for teachers to prioritize the most
important topics and cover them thoroughly. Failure to manage time effectively can lead to
incomplete coverage of topics and a lack of student engagement. Therefore, it is important for
teachers to develop effective time management strategies to ensure that they are able to make
the most of the limited time available for teaching.
Another issue is the challenge of determining the students' motivation. With the distance
created by the screen, it becomes difficult for teachers to know if their students are following
or not, which can make it challenging to adjust their teaching methods or provide support
where needed (Sutri Windiarti, Nurul Fadilah, Eka Dhermawati, and Bambang Widi Pratolo,
2019).
Furthermore, unclear and delayed communication can also be a hinderance to the teaching and
learning process. In a traditional teaching setting, communication is much easier, and lecturers
can easily pinpoint where their students are struggling and having a hard time. However, in an
online setting, communication can be unclear and delayed, making it difficult for teachers to
provide timely feedback and support to their students (Challenges of distance learning for
Teachers, 2021).
In conclusion, it is essential to recognize the challenges faced by both teachers and students in
online learning. By identifying these obstacles, educators can develop strategies to overcome
them and ensure that students receive a quality education.

5.2.2. how to overcome these obstacles

The topic of bad internet connection is reoccurring, therefore finding a solution to this issue is
of upmost importance, thus, in places with poor internet connection, professors can look for
alternative modes deliver courses, such as using pre-recorded lectures or distributing course
materials in advance. This can ensure that students have access to course content regardless of
their internet connection. Another option is to reduce the number of students and dividing
them in to small groups, this can decrease the likelihood of video conference disruptions and
enable a greater number of students to participate to the course without having to worry about
crammed lobbies.
Poor time management arises both in traditional teaching and e-learning and time is scarce
therefore handling it poorly especially by teachers, who are known to have the most impact on
a student’s education, can lead to future problems. Hence it is best to work on it personally for
the betterment of the overall teaching and training. There are many ways to overcome this
issue, for example, planning, setting up deadlines “Effective time management isn’t achieved
randomly. It involves a good amount of planning” “Set realistic deadlines for task completion
and stick to them.” (Simplilearn, 2023)
Now, to motivate the students, the professor can acknowledge the accomplishments and
successes of the students. This can be accomplished in many different ways such as certificates,
awards, or highlighting the student's accomplishments in a class discussion or presentation. By
doing so, the student’s self-confidence and motivation will surely increase. Engaging the
students in group work or online discussion can also encourages students to support and
motivate each other.
Finally, providing regular feedback on the students’ progress, will not only motivate the student
but also create a sense of communication between the leaner and the teacher.

6. The evaluation of students’ performance in E-learning

Evaluating student performance during e-learning courses is crucial for ensuring that students
are not only engaging with the material but also making progress towards their learning goals.
There are several effective methods that instructors can use to evaluate students' performance
in an online learning environment.

Assessments are an essential tool for evaluating student performance in e-learning courses.
Regular assessments can provide instructors with a measure of how well students are
understanding the material and how effectively the course is teaching it. Online assessments
can come in various formats, such as quizzes, tests, essays, or other assignments (Helen
Colman, 2022). These assessments help instructors track student progress, identify areas where
students may be struggling, and determine whether the course materials are achieving their
intended goals. Moreover, assessments can also serve as a motivational tool for students, as
they can see their progress over time and use the feedback to improve their learning outcomes.
A study found that quizzes could improve student engagement and performance in e-learning
courses (Nath, Chen, & Leung, 2018). The researchers discovered that frequent online quizzes
helped students to remain engaged in the course and actively participate in the learning
process. Additionally, the quizzes provided a measure of students' understanding of the
material, and helped instructors identify areas where students may need extra support. As a
result, students who participated in the quizzes demonstrated improved learning outcomes and
a better understanding of the course material. Thus, incorporating quizzes as a regular part of
e-learning courses can have a positive impact on students' engagement and performance,
ultimately leading to better learning outcomes.
One other way to evaluate students' performance during e-learning courses is to track their
participation in the course activities. Participation can include various activities such as
attending live online classes, participating in discussions, submitting assignments on time, and
engaging in peer reviews. Instructors can use learning analytics to track students' participation
and engagement with the course materials. The data collected from learning analytics can help
instructors identify students who may need additional support and provide them with targeted
interventions (Al-Fadhli, Al-Saleh, & Al-Mutairi, 2017).
Peer evaluations are an effective way to evaluate students' performance in e-learning courses.
They provide students with an opportunity to learn from each other and receive feedback on
their work, either as part of group projects or individual assignments that are reviewed by
peers. Peer evaluations have been found to improve students' learning and satisfaction in
online courses, according to a study (Zhang, Zhao, Zhou, & Nunamaker, 2004). By incorporating
peer evaluations, instructors can help students develop critical thinking and communication
skills, as well as the ability to give and receive constructive feedback. It can also increase
student engagement and motivation by creating a collaborative learning environment.
therefore, peer evaluations are a valuable method for assessing students' performance in e-
learning courses and can enhance their learning experiences.
Lastly, Self-assessment is a valuable method for evaluating students' performance during e-
learning courses. It involves students reflecting on their own learning and progress towards
their goals. A study by Boud and Falchikov (2006) found that self-assessment can promote
metacognition and help students be more responsible for their learning. By reflecting on their
own learning, students can identify areas where they need to improve and set goals for
themselves. Self-assessment can also encourage students to be more engaged in their own
learning process, which can lead to better outcomes. Instructors can provide guidance and
support for students to help them, such as providing prompts for reflection or goggle forms for
self-evaluation.
In conclusion, a combination of these methods should be used to evaluate students'
performance during e-learning. By using multiple methods, instructors can provide a
comprehensive evaluation of students' learning outcomes, identify areas where students need
additional support, and provide constructive feedback that helps students improve their
knowledge and skills.
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