E-learning is seen as an alternative to taking courses in the traditional classroom setting, providing flexibility and convenience in education. Multimedia courses to harness the full potential of the Internet and new media technologies are now being developed. The model that is emerging is access to learning, where, how and when it is needed, in a learning environment that exists almost entirely on the Web. However, many companies are reluctant to state that relevant savings exist.
Corporate entities are typically earlier adopters of new technology than are academic institutions.
This is often attributed to the more complex decision-making process in the academic world. It is noted in the same Information Week research survey that favorable results are identified in improved employee performances, increased sales and better customer satisfaction. Education's use of the Internet and of e-learning has grown substantially. Students are setting their own time schedules, learning from each other and from instructors all over the globe. Most higher education institutions offer e-learning opportunities.