Bandar Seri Begawan - The introduction of e-learning system in September received positive response from sixth form students, however many foresee some hindrance that might hamper the smooth implementation of the system.

Student Jarrod Sim,17, from the Katok Sixth Form Centre (PTE Katok) told The Brunei Times that introducing e-learning to Form Six students was a "great" way to prepare them for university

'By having this system now, it will better prepare us for university, as many universities abroad utilise this system," he said.

Sim talked about the convenience the e-learning system would offer for both students and educators alike.

"If students cannot make it to school because they are sick, at least they will not miss out because they can access their notes and interact with their peers and teachers online," he said.

He added that with the recent Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic which may cause educational institutions to shut down for a period of time, students and educators could still interact about their school-work from home.

"This promotes more ways of learning. At least during an emergency, students do not lose out," he said. This system can be effective only if students utilise it. However, I do feel that it has the potential to help students."

In addition, Sim explained that as Brunei's Internet services were not "as great as can be", it might contribute to challenges students and teachers might encounter with the e-learning system.

"The Internet services are a work in progress, but speed and stability of Internet connections are a big factor which I foresee will determine the effectiveness of this system," he said, adding that the system has to be well-managed once it was introduced.

Student Daniel Sii, from the Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College (Maktab Duli) said the e-learning system would have pros and cons for students.

The 19-year-old explained that the system would be more convenient for students to do their research online, instead of going to the library manually to conduct research.

However, he said that not every student has the skill to use the system.

"Not every student possesses basic computer skills or has a background in computer literacy. I think schools should train the students to use the system when it is introduced," he said.

He added that although the system has its benefits, he personally prefers the traditional way of teaching and learning.

"I do not think my studies would really improve, because I might end up doing other things online instead of focusing on the e-learning tools," he explained.

Wong Teck Chin, 17, from the Katok Sixth Form Centre (PTE Katok) said that the e-learning system would bring a "whole new level" of learning.

"We have never had anything like this. I suppose with this system, learning will be more interactive and not boring," he said.

It would also be more convenient for students and their educators to keep in close contact to discuss work matters, he added.

"Let's say a student may not understand a certain topic when he is at home. If his teacher is online, then he can easily discuss it with his teacher," he said.

However, Wong said that it was important to train students and teachers in learning to use the system efficiently.

He suggested that perhaps, students and teachers should sit for a test on their computer skills and those who did not pass it, should be trained.

Student Evon Gob, 18, from Maktab Duli felt that although the e-learning system would be convenient, she preferred to communicate face-to-face with her peers and educators.

"What happens when students need to ask questions to their teachers and they (teachers) are not online?" she said. Students might also lose their concentration as they may be distracted with surfing the Internet she added.

In a previous report, a senior lecturer at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Dr Yong Chee Than said that the software to support the e-learning system will be available in September for all A' Level and higher educational institutions in the Sultanate.

-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

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