APPLICATION OF E-LEARNING FOR SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION OF PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN HIGHER INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The history of e-learning shows that it has been a transition over the years. It has proved
to be reliable source of teaching and learning for diverse learners worldwide. Nations
have been greatly influenced by the multiplicity of its role in Education. E-learning
technologies are not quite new in the global community. They have been quite around
and common over the decade and are still very much around. E-learning is a type of
learning where teachers and students interact electronically despite distance, time or
location using online devices. The term encompasses a broad array of content and
instructional methods which teachers and students use especially in higher institutions of
learning in Nigeria. The provision of E-learning is an important factor in providing
comprehensive solutions within educational sector. Persons with special needs can
benefit greatly from e-learning education and home schooling if the application is done
successfully and sustainable. In this paper, the authors discussed issues in connection
with the application of e-learning for sustainable special needs in higher institutions in
Nigeria. Further discussions in the paper were various issues such as who are students
with special educational needs, concept of E-learning and historical perspectives,
application of e-learning to students with special needs, the relevance of e-learning to
students with special needs. The paper concluded that Federal Ministry of Education
should provide laptops, data and free or affordable WiFi to enhance learning. In
addition, teachers or persons with special needs should develop positive attitude toward
incorporation of E-learning. Finally web designers, technicians and developers should
consider the unique needs of persons with special needs in designing this technology to
enable them carry out their learning tasks effectively.