ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF E-LEARNING (KEY IJP************971)

• Arghya Chatterjee

Abstract

This report delves into the multifaceted nature of e-learning, a revolutionary approach that has redefined the educational landscape in the 21st century. By leveraging digital platforms, e-learning enables widespread access toknowledge, transcending traditional barriers of geography and physicalinfrastructure. The study highlights the primary advantages of e-learning,including its unparalleled accessibility, the flexibility it offers to learners of all ages, and its potential to personalize learning experiences through adaptive technologies. Moreover, it explores how e-learning supports cost-efficient educational models, catering to diverse audiences from school-aged students to professionals seeking upskilling opportunities.Despite its benefits, the report also uncovers significant challenges associated with e-learning. Chief among these are technological dependencies, which can exacerbate existing inequalities, particularly in regions with limited internet penetration or access to digital devices. The lack of direct personal interaction is another critical drawback, often leading to feelings of isolation and reduced engagement, which can negatively affect learning outcomes. Additionally, the rapid transition to e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed issuessuch as inadequate teacher training, inconsistent content quality, and the challenges of maintaining academic integrity in online assessments.The findings presented in this report emphasize that while e-learning has immense potential, its effectiveness is contingent upon addressing thesechallenges through strategic policy-making, infrastructural development, and pedagogical innovation. The research underscores the importance of a hybrid approach that combines the flexibility of e-learning with the interpersonalstrengths of traditional educational methods. This ensures that the benefits of e-learning are maximized while mitigating its drawbacks, paving the way for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable educational future.