Information communication technology and the new university: A view on eLearning

The purpose of this study is to explore aspects of learning that are perceived as helping foster successful eLearning for all participants separated by time and distance. The author argues that learner-centered practice is necessary to improve the quality of learning on the Internet. To this end, this study deals with the issues of potential or actual students as they relate to eLearning. In two different surveys, most respondents expected information communication technology to play a key role in shaping the form of future education. The surveys also revealed several real or potential problems facing students taking courses on the Internet. Most important, students' needs and demands are perceived as being given a lower priority than other aspects of designing courses on the Internet. In short, client orientation is the key mode of operation in the information age, and a user friendly environment is thus critical to ensuring the success of eLearning.