Formulating an e-learning theory: a grounded theory approach

Abstract

Despite the significant growth and development of e-learning we still do not have a relevant theory specifically stipulated to guide the practice up to date. The design, implementation and delivery of e-learning have been informed by the 20th Century classical theories of learning namely: Behaviorism, Cognitivism and Constructivism. In 2005, we saw the inclusion of the Connectivist theory of learning for the digital era. However, certain lacunae exist in these classical learning theories that need further examination and explanation. This research study therefore seeks to identify the contributions of the classical learning theories to e-learning as well as establish the gaps that exist in these theories in their application to e-learning with a view of extending the connectivist theory into an e-learning theory using the Grounded Theory (GT) Methodology.