What is e-learning?

E-learning is a new education concept by using the Internet technology, it deliveries the digital content, provides a learner-orient environment for the teachers and students. The e-learning promotes the construction of life-long learning opinions and learning society.

According to Marc Rosenberg (2001) he defines e-learning as the use of the internet technologies to deliver a broad array of solutions that enhance knowledge and performance. It is based upon three fundamental criteria;

· networked

· delivered to the end-user via a computer using standard internet technology

· focuses on the broadest view of learning

While Allison Rossett (2001) defines elearning as Web-based training (WBT), also known as elearning and on-line learning, is training that resides on a server or host computer that is connected to the World Wide Web.

Beside,  ASTD's Learning Circuits defines it as “electronic learning” covering a wide set of applications and processes, such as web-based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classrooms, and digital collaboration. It includes the delivery of content via internet, intranet/extranet (LAN/WAN), audio- and videotape, satellite broadcast, interactive TV, and CD-ROM.

Moreover Brook Manville defines elearning as: including not only Internet-published courseware, but also the tools for managing, modularizing and handling the following:

·  Different kinds of content and learning objects (including both electronic and non-electronic forms, and even traditional classroom instruction).

·  Just-in-time and asynchronous learning, such as virtual labs, virtual classrooms and collaborative work spaces.

·  Simulations, document repositories and publishing programs.

· Tools for prescribing learning, managing development pathways and goals and handling e-commerce and financial transactions related to learning.

· The utilities and capabilities for supporting informal learning, mentoring, communities of practice and other non-training interventions.