E-Learning (Electronic Learning)
- Definition: Learning through electronic devices (computers, laptops, tablets, internet, CDs, etc.) using digital content.
- Scope: Broader; includes online courses, webinars, digital classrooms, MOOCs.
Key Features:
- Uses internet & multimedia (audio, video, PPTs).
- Can be synchronous (live) or asynchronous (recorded).
- Accessible through desktop/laptop.
Examples:
- SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) – India (2017).
- Coursera, edX, Udemy – Global platforms.
- ICAR e-Courses (B.Sc. Agriculture digital course material).
M-Learning (Mobile Learning)
- Definition: A subset of e-learning, delivered through mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, SMS, apps).
- Scope: Narrower but more flexible – allows anytime, anywhere learning.
Key Features:
- Portable and convenient.
- Often app-based or SMS-based.
- Suitable for farmers, extension workers, students in rural areas.
Examples:
- Kisan Suvidha App – Agriculture advisories.
- Matsya Setu App – Fisheries training.
- Diksha App – School education.
- FAO’s Farm Radio & SMS advisory services.
Difference Between E-Learning & M-Learning
Aspect | E-Learning | M-Learning |
Device | Computer, laptop, internet | Mobile, tablet, SMS, apps |
Scope | Broad (online courses, MOOCs, e-material) | Subset of e-learning (mobile-focused) |
Flexibility | Requires setup, less portable | Anytime, anywhere (on-the-go) |
Examples | SWAYAM, ICAR e-Courses | Kisan Suvidha, Matsya Setu, Diksha |
In simple terms:
- E-learning = umbrella term (all digital learning).
- M-learning = branch of e-learning (through mobiles only).
i) MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses)
Definition: MOOCs are online courses designed for large-scale participation, often offered for free or at a low cost. They cover a wide range of topics and usually provide certificates upon completion (sometimes paid).
Key Features:
- Open access to anyone with internet connectivity
- Flexible learning schedules
- Multimedia content (videos, quizzes, discussion forums)
- Peer-to-peer interaction and sometimes instructor feedback
Examples:
- Coursera (founded 2012) – partners with universities for professional and academic courses
- edX (founded 2012) – Harvard & MIT initiative, free courses with paid certification
- Udacity (founded 2011) – focuses on tech and vocational skills, “Nanodegree” programs
Applications in Agriculture: Crop management, organic farming, precision agriculture, agribusiness, sustainable practices
ii) OER (Open Educational Resources)
Definition: OER refers to freely accessible, openly licensed learning materials that anyone can use, adapt, and share.
Key Features:
- Textbooks, videos, lectures, lesson plans, and research articles
- Open licensing (Creative Commons)
- Can be reused and modified for teaching or self-learning
Examples:
- FAO e-learning Centre – agriculture-specific OER for global learners
- MERLOT – repository of free educational resources
- OpenLearn (Open University) – wide variety of subjects including agriculture and environmental studies
Applications in Agriculture: Teaching sustainable practices, farm management, soil health, pest management
Other E-learning Platforms & Tools
Platform/Tool | Type | Features | Example Use |
Khan Academy | Online Learning | Video lessons, exercises, progress tracking | Basic biology, statistics for agriculture students |
Skillshare | MOOC / Skill Learning | Short courses, project-based learning | Organic farming, agro-based entrepreneurship |
Udemy | MOOC / Paid Courses | Wide variety, instructor-led | Precision agriculture, agribusiness marketing |
Agriculture-specific portals | OER/MOOC hybrid | Tutorials, case studies, guidelines | IndianAgriExam.com, FAO e-learning portal |
Summary:
- MOOCs = structured online courses for large audiences (learning + certification)
- OER = freely available teaching/learning resources for anyone to use/adapt
