E-Learning occurs every time that online or Web-based education exists.
Technology has revolutionized business; now it must revolutionize learning.

eLearning provides the student or learner with information that can be accessed in a setting free from time and place constraints. The student can go through the lessons at his or her own pace.

In many cases, especially in a Web-Based Training, the material provided includes media-rich content such as multimedia forms as audio and video.

Many terms have been used to define e-learning in the past. For example web-based training, computer-based training or web-based learning, and online learning are a few synonymous terms that have over the last few years been labeled as e-learning. Each of this implies a "just-in-time" instructional and learning approach.

Advantages to the school or institution

• Reduced overall cost is the single most influential factor in adopting e-learning. The elimination of costs associated with instructor's salaries, meeting room rentals, and student travel, lodging, and meals are directly quantifiable.
• Increased retention and application to the job averages an increase of 25 percent over traditional methods.
• Consistent delivery of content is possible with asynchronous, self-paced e-learning.
• Expert knowledge is communicated, but more importantly captured, with good e-learning and knowledge management systems.
• Proof of completion and certification, essential elements of training initiatives, can be automated.

Advantages to the student

Along with the increased retention, reduced learning time, and other aforementioned benefits to students, particular advantages of e-learning include:

• On-demand availability enables students to complete training conveniently at off-hours or from home.
• Self-pacing for slow or quick learners reduces stress and increases satisfaction.
• Interactivity engages users, pushing them rather than pulling them through training.
• Confidence that refresher or quick reference materials are available reduces burden of responsibility of mastery.