Web-based Learning: Characteristics, Practices, Challenges and Recommendations

The present research attempts an overview of web-based learning (WBL/online) technologies and a description of their status of understanding, in the literature. The paper also tries to explain it can be adapted for various online education environments. The paper has also touched on the foundations of design, advantages, and obstacles of evaluation in online learning. The best practices and feedback of learners and educators have also been touched upon in the present review of literature. Due to swift advances in technology today, the research points to the fact that institutions are in need of being acquainted with the fast emerging tools every now and then. There is a continuous need for digital literacy as a key skill for instructors who are committed to quality online learning, and developing individuals’ ICT knowledge is an urgent need for WBL. Educational institutions also need to provide opportunities and maintain these crucial skills. WBL also needs to cultivate constructivist practices in education, which undermines a need for developing EBL tools that nurture and develop the various skills needed in 21st century education.