Theoretical Backgrounds of E-Learning

E-learning could be carried out with any theory of learning by applying electronic devices. Skinner, for example, introduced programmed instructions in the 50's by the aid of mechanical devices that made immediate reinforcement for the right answer possible. In the frame of cognitivism, students could use a computer as a device for experimenting and researching by using multimedia hypertexts. The question about meaning of learning and getting to know not only external reality, but also inner world of any student was pointed out by the constructivist and humanistic learning theory. However, e-learning should not be reduced to delivering programmed instructions or multimedia hypertexts, it should allow students to be creators of their knowledge (constructivism) and, what is more important, of the world they live in (activism). Modern learning management systems like Moodle, along with social networking systems, could be used for carrying out such e-learning.