A Conceptual Framework for Implementing E-Learning Technologies in Rural Settings

This research work intends to develop a conceptual framework for effective implementation of elearning technology in the rural settings. E-learning is a form of computer mediated teaching and learning pedagogy that utilizes electronic media, such as web/internet, television, consumer devices and distributed resources to improve the quality of teaching and learning. This kind of teaching and learning methodology is rapidly becoming a force to be associated with because it has recorded a substantial growth and improvement in the education system. However, despite all the numerous benefits of e-learning, its implementation has been hastily conducted in most cases without a clear cut assessment for its viability especially in the rural settings. In most cases, computer vendors simply installed and dumped high costs learning management systems in schools and the rest is history. The effective implementation of e-learning technology has more to do with strategic planning and concretely evaluating factors that can enhance its successful implementation. This calls for the need to develop a more pragmatic framework for evaluating elearning technology implementation. The conceptual framework being proposed derives from our intuitions and personal experiences and using the rural communities of South Africa as a basis, we propose to develop a pragmatic framework to guide the future implementation of e-learning technology. This will enable the effective utilization of e-learning infrastructures for the provisioning of quality teaching and learning services.