Barriers to Implementing an E-Learning System

Barriers to Implementing an E-Learning SystemGeneral inception/BackgroundIn todays world of globalization, acquaintance and reading is considered the or so(prenominal) vital function for getting competitive advantage (Longworth and Davies, 1996). For agniseing competitive advantage firms and governances ar becoming more friendship intensive, consequently they concentrate more on managing and sharing knowledge to gain signifi senst advantage of this knowledge (Hertog and Sluijs, 1995).Traditional reading style has detained consistent with divulge any shifts been made to the musical arrangement. This has en adequate to(p)d a large outcome of creative thinkers to ponder some different(prenominal) achievable educational accesses that could benefit the remains (Gnes, 2008). On the other hand, technology is necessary in order to conquer, but it is also a necessity to remain in competition. All the sectors, whether it is primary, manufacturing or tertiary, all of them crop up been forced to accept technology to fuck off mod and efficient (Gnes, 2008).Technology has not only radically changed the slipway and methods of our ricks but is now beginning to transform the education form of rules (Webster and Murphy, 2008).With the use of internet technologies, firms and institutions yield outstanding opportunities to deliver education and polar instruct techniques by dint of strategical use of internet technologies (Lee, 2006 Kaohsiung Taiwan, 2006). The use of Internet technologies combined with suitable attainment strategies assists to provide an open, flexible and dynamic encyclopedism milieu. As a result many corporations, government agencies and academic institutions worldwide have increased the use of internet and educational technologies to deliver instructions and provide training. This innovative cuddle of delivering instruction and education is known as E- reading ( khan, 2008). E-learning can be simply defined as the way of learning which delivers its contents through humanity commodious Web (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). Sharifabadi defined E-learning as the term utilize to describe teaching and learning re mentions or experiences that is, in close to way, delivered electronically. (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Sharifabadi, 2006, p.391).E-learning is a way of fundamental interaction through electronic mass mediums, mainly computers, by using expo reliables, photos, texts and sounds for dissimilar educational purposes (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). E-learning organisation creates a learning probability for the convenience of those who do not have the opportunity to be physically available, due to miscellaneous reasons (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Werry, 2002). Hence, during the late 1990s and early 2000 many online universities were established and more universities were offering online seams, but mixed results of the E-learning dodges were encountered (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). dissimilar seeke s have pointed out many barriers in E-learnings execution of instrument, which lead to its failure. For example scientific infrastructure, by nature content quality, financial support, learners computing skills, staff training, management support and organizations elaboration exemption (Romiszowski, 2003, Childs et al, 2005, Muilenburg and Berge, 2005).Organizations ethnic tube is considered as the most influential barrier in E-learnings practiceation surgical procedure. The farmings resistance or resistance from the potential users negatively requires the instruction execution process. involuntariness of the employees can create major problems for the managers and can lead to the arrangement failure (Shields and Young, 1989, p. 22). Employees resistance and avoiding of the use of compulsory procedures and rules could lead the formation to failure charge if it has been demonstrable perfectly and is ready to use (Malmi, 1997, p. 475). In this sec the managers cann ot gain full benefits of the new system unless they can create a change in the employees bearing (Yates, 1997, p. 164). heathenish differences among peers could create many problems in instruction execution of E-learning system. wherefore, if the cultural issues argon overlooked during effectuation, their ignorance could act as a vital barrier in E-learnings winner (AL-Hunaiyyan et al, 2008 Gujar and Sonone, 2004).Problem statementThere be contrasting articles and books available in the market which mentioned about the usefulness and advantages of E-learning. Web-based learning is a new medium of information technology re dependers have mentioned many different factors which act as barriers towards implementing E-learning system (Ngai et al., 2007). There ar different factors cited by various authors which exist in their interrogation papers that can champion us to recognize critical barriers. In addition, we argon interested in finding out, to which intent an organiza tion is strung-out on the role of its culture, and how culture can lead to success or failure of the E-learning system. It should be noted that culture has a great impact in organizations and are important when decision making is involved in IT management. In this regard, an organization is said to be confronted with stiff resistance, consequently making IT management a ticklish task (Childs et al, 2005). To over suffer the barriers for implementing E- learning, an organization should try and manage these barriers accordingly because they are critical to any organizations general business model and can equally affect the organizations decision making process.Research questionWhat are the critical barriers of implementing E-learning system and what is the role of organizational culture in successful effectuation of E-learning system?Objectives and take aim of the ResearchThe purpose of this question is to describe and analyze the critical factors which whitethorn affect the performance of E-learning system. Investigating the barriers of implementing E-learning system would help to discredit pull gobble up the barriers in future murder. Moreover by examining the cultural influence of an organization towards E-learning systems carrying out process, it will be easier to identify a boom outline for organizations to implement E-Learning system and to make the system work efficiently and successfully.Thesis planThe structure of the thesis is principally foc utilise on six chapters which includeChapter 1 Introduction/BackgroundThe Introduction gives brief overview of the query guinea pig, including the purpose and objectives, problems and research question.Chapter 2 Research Design/MethodsThis chapter deals with the choice of topic, research process which indicates how these informations will be analyzed, selective information collection, validity and reliability, and method critique.Chapter 3 mannequin of referenceThis chapter discusses relevant t heories to give the lecturer an understanding of the barriers which come across E-learning systems death penalty processes cited by different authors.Chapter 4 FindingsThis chapter provides frequencies of different barriers for implementing E-learning system described by different authors.Chapter 5 AnalysisThis chapter will describe the compendium based on the findings.Chapter 6 ConclusionsThis section at last concludes the lessons drawn from the findingsResearch Design/MethodsThis chapter deals with the choice of topic, research process which indicates how these datas will be analyzed, data collection, validity and reliability, and method critique.Choice of Topic fisherman (2007, p.31-33) suggested that authors should accept research area according to their interests, so they remain motivated and committed to complete the project. The authors belong to Pakistan, where E-learning system is not much in full in organizations. While, E-learning system is already in use in Sweden , we found out that E-learning system is a proficient tool in learning process. Therefore, it was sort of intriguing for us to explore this topic. In addition, we were interested in finding out the barriers for implementation of E-learning system and to check out the role of organizations culture for successful implementation of E-learning system. fisher (2007, p.31-33) urges that chosen topic should be accessible and it is necessary to make sure that quite lit is available for making detail analysis. We are accepted that our topic is enough interesting, significant and demanding for all researchers, businesses managers and Information Technology focal point students.Research ProcessThere are various methodological tone-beginninges to carry out research i.e. Realist research, exploratory research, critical realism, standpoint research, action research and phenomenology etc, Fisher (2007, p.15). In addition, Fisher (2007, p.153-155) mentioned two kinds of discoveries e.g. Explor ers and Surveyors. A kind of research where an open approach is utilise with conceptual framework but the authors are not sure about outcomes and results of the work they do, is called exploratory research. On the other hand surveyors disco very(prenominal) approach is pre-structured where surveyors are already inform of the results and out come of their work. According to these concepts our research is exploratory as we are dependent on secondary data.Data entreaty and sourceFisher (2007, p.45) states that data could be collected from existing databases, through questionnaires, conducting fieldwork or performing case studies as it depends on the kind of research. In this research consummate data has been collected from available databases as the research is entirely based on secondary data collection method. Secondary source has been used in this research. The data was extracted from articles, books and websites, magazines, journals and articles with focus on critical barriers t o E-learning implementation.Fisher stated that (2007, P.158-161) data could be qualitative or quantitative depending on the method of research study. A quantitative approach has been used here in this research. No statistics has been used in this research and as all research has been analyzed by al-Qurans not figures.Access of informationSecondary data has extracted from different sources. The required literature has been acquired by searching Mlardalen Universitys subroutine library. Furthermore, we have used online library (ebrary) as well as other librarys database such as Elin, Emerald, Eric and EBSCO for articles and journals, which have helped us to answer our research query. Going through a wide-ranging literature review, twenty dollar bill five articles were identified that give answer to the research question from distinct angles. To identify the barriers to execution of E-learning system, discernword search criteria based on title contained Barriers of E-learning syst em implementation, Implications of E-learning system in organizations, Implementation of E-learning system in large organization, Challenges of E-learning Implementation, Limitations of E-learning System,To describe and analyze the role of organizations culture for successful implementation of E-learning system in organization, keyword search criteria contained Cultural issues of E-leaning system, Cultural Influence on online Learning, Cultural influence on student learning, Analyzing cultural Influences on E-learning Transactional Issue, Cultural difference and influence on E-learning, amicable and cultural impact on E-learning Effectiveness, A cultural Analysis of relearning for developed and developing countries, Cross and Multicultural issues for E-learning success, Influence of organizational cultural in E-learning, organisational resistance towards implementing E-learning system.Data AnalysisAccording to Miles and Huberman (1994, p.10) data analysis consists of tierce parall el flows of activity (1) Data reduction, (2) Data show, and (3) Conclusion picture/verification. Furthermore they suggested that data analysis components could be successfully integrated during data analysis, as it is an iterative and continuous process (Miles and Huberman 1994). They have stated tercet components of activities that describe analysis which are starting signal is data reduction that is focused on selection, simplification and transformation of data (Miles and Huberman 1994). This process is applied in qualitative data. The objective of this is data is to help brief final conclusion and verification.In this study data is taken from the studies where authors cited barriers to implement E-learning with focus on cultural resistance in an organization. Second is data display i.e. data reduced in data reduction needs to be organized that help to draw conclusion easily. In table mentioned below, different factors associate to critical barriers to implementation of E-l earning system and the role of organizations culture is given below along with the frequency of each factor. Third is the conclusion based on drawing/verifying describes the possible explanations, causal flows and propositions to be made. Therefore based on the findings and discussed analysis, conclusions would be drawn to signify the influential role of organizations culture towards the implementation process.cogency and ReliabilityValidity is defined as the degree which researchers have measured what they have set out to measure (Kumar, 2005) whereas reliability means the extent to which another researcher can reach the same conclusion by following the same research process (Taylor et al., 2006).Several articles have been used to identify the barriers of implementing E-learning system and to analyze the role of organizational culture. Besides, frequencies of more influential barriers have been generated to validate the barriers and cultural role in implementation process.Method Cr itique overdue to the fourth dimension limitation, a limited number of articles have been used to formulate the frequency to identify the critical barriers. It could be better to use more articles to fort our research as a number of studies have already been done in this area. However this study will describe and analyze the critical barriers for the implementation of E-learning system related literature and to gain a theoretical background. It was also discovered during analysis of this study that most of the authors mentioned the critical factors with mere repetition with respective(a) definitions.Framework of ReferenceThis chapter discusses relevant theories to give the reader an understanding of the barriers which come across E-learning systems implementation processes cited by different authors.E-learningWhat is E-learning?E-learning can be defined as learning and dis logical argument exercises across computers and networks or electronic sources. (Wong, 2007 Schank, 2002 R offe, 2002 Tsai Machado, 2002 Sambrook, 2003 Fry Wild, Grggs and Downing, 2002) have defined E-learning as delivery of training and education via networked interactivity and distribution technologies.According to caravansary (2008), the word E-learning is used for an open, flexible, and diverse E-learning purlieu. E-learning can be analyzed as an inventive approach for delivering learner-centered, well designed, interactive, and facilitated learning environment to anyplace, anyone, anytime by utilizing the features and resources of different digital technologies along with other forms of learning seculars suited for open, distributed, and flexible learning environment ( caravan inn, 2008).In E-learning system Students are able to interact anytime from anywhere with different instructional material (text, sound, pictures, video and so on) through Internet. Furthermore, learners can even communicate with teachers and classmates both individually and as a convocation discussion wi th the use of cognitive content boards, instant message exchanges and video conferencing. (Al-Ammari and Hamad, 2008 Andersson, 2009 Zhang and Zhou, 2003). (Lee, 2006) Therefore, E-learning has been defined variously, learning system using different carrying technologies and techniques like Computer Based Training (CBT), Internet-based training (IBT), Web-based instruction (WBI), distributed learning (DL), march on distributed learning (ADL), outgo learning, online learning (OL), mobile learning (or m-learning) or remote learning and learning management systems (LMS) (Khan, 2008).For managing learning environment like, registration of learners, scheduling learning resources, controlling and guidance of learning processes and analyzing learners performance are all accomplish in Learning Management System (LMS) (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Brown, 2006).In 1970s and 1980s aloofness learning started becoming popular and sued to conduct through postal mail but in 1990s the rise of Worl d Wide Web changed the personality keep learning. With the use of this technology learners can get a number of resources from their teachers like discussion forums, multimedia, chat, video conferencing and electronic b insufficiency boards.These changes which have been brought in distance education are an attempt to provide easier access to students who live very far from universities, who are working or have other reasons for not existence able to attend in person. In the US in the academic year 2001-2, five million people took at least one course online, and three million were enrolled in online degree programs (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Kazmer Haythornthwaite, 2005, p.7). It can be seen in these figures that distance education online has become a popular alternative to face-to-face instruction.Implementation of E-learning unmatchable of the following three approaches is necessary for the implementation of the E-learning system To strengthen the traditionalistic face-to-face courses with support of new communication technology, enhancement of experience with in traditional courses by integration of online activities and delivery of entirely online courses. In this implementation the readiness of some influential factors like budgeting, infrastructure planning, human resource maturement (experience, skills, knowledge and attitude of the end users) are most common.Uhomoibhi (2006) stated that E-learning initiators, institutions must use and put in strategies for toleration, diffusion and implementation. For a successful implementation of online environment where learners can actively learn and get support from well-organized approach is mandatory. Processes of planning, designing, developing and evaluation are all parts of a successful implementation that could help to lower down the barriers of implementation (Uhomoibhi, 2006). An E-learning system can only be successful if it is significant to all stakeholders e.g. instructors, learners support serv ices staff and the institutions it egotism.In order for learners to become readily accustomed to E-learning, it must be made sure that it is easily accessible, efficient, well designed course, affordable, and has a facilitated learning environment. Instructors must feel a backbone of operation when learners meet the goals and objectives of the course in a successful way. Technical support staff should feel happy when learners receive reliable services without interruptions. ace of the most important factors for institutions is the profit they earn as well as the satisfaction of the learner and a low rate of dropouts (Khan, 2005).A strong footing is required in order to have an effective implementation of E-learning. Aligning and communication are two important factors in implementation of E-learning system. It is necessary to make sure the communication is in order. Involvement of key stakeholders at the decision making stage or any other early process is very important(Khan, 2 005). chat is also important for those who are directly liable for the implementation and professionals also suggest a horizontal leadership style so that everyone is responsible for their actions. This includes individuals who are critical to the implementations success which include line, functional and divisional leaders. There should be consistent scheduled meetings with these individuals to discuss the newly arising issues in the project to come up with a solution (Khan, 2005). Most of the pitfalls of E-learning are tied to technological issues so it is important to involve IT leadership throughout the project to mitigate the problems in implementation process. Creation of helpdesk for reporting of IT related issues is more important. While selecting the vendors it is important to make sure that the vendors have an outstanding and proven record. Strong communication and feedback from vendors is a necessary step for a successful implementation (Khan, 2005).An overview of the c ritical issues in E-learning implementationWorldwide, E-learning arises as a new paradigm of advance education with a growing rate of 36.5 percent in the market, but still failures exist (Sun et al., 2008). As many companies are moving very fast to the adoption of E-learning in order to reap its benefits but they are facing significant barriers in its implementation and adoption, which leads them to implementation failure (Mungania, 2003). Hence, to mitigate this failure we have to investigate key factors that encompass different dimensions of an open, flexible and advanced distributed learning environment for diverse learners (Khan, 2005). Literature has mentioned a wide range of factors that can influence the successful implementation of E-learning e.g. some talks about pedagogical issues, faculty issues and organizational issues while some may have discussed about personal issues, cultural issues and some other issues. A broad range of factors that can influence the success of E- learning environments has been mentioned in the literature. However, there is no organized work to characterize collective group of most influential issues or factors, which could be seen as barriers Wong (2007). Distinct authors consider different barriers as most influential in implementation of E-learning Wong (2007).Wong (2007) has categorized E-learning limitations in three main areas technological limitations, personal issues and other limitations. The insufficiency of hardware, limited Internet coverage and low bandwidth are all consider as technological barriers in implementation of E- learning (Hiltz, 1997 Kathawala, Abdou, Elmulti, 2002 Wong, 2007). Kember et al., 2001 Dearnley, 2003) stated that personal issues are mostly related to learners and teachers. Teachers should give a complete guidance to the learners about this new and non-traditional system to prepare new learners psychologically (Wong, 2007 Kember et al., 2001 Dearnley, 2003). For learners the use of new t echnologies could be a separate or barrier in E- learning. So the lack information, communication and technological skills ability be barriers to E-learning because learners could get frustrated from this unconventional learning environment. (Wong, 2007 Carr, 1999 Hamid, 2002 Angelina, 2002a, p.12)The freedom provided by E-learning could be a disadvantage for the learners as internal motivation and self correspond is required at its maximum which learners may find hard to achieve in order to complete their studies or assignments in time. As (Wong, 2007 Kearsley, 2000) Schott et al., 2003 Rivera and Rice, 2002 Abouchedid and Eid, 2004).In E-learning environment students are usually supposed to communicate in a text based environment so learners inadequate writing skills might be a disadvantage in E- learning. Therefore, the inability of communicating efficiently of learners could create misunderstandings (Wong, 2007 Smith Rupp, 2004). Others limitations E-learning provides 247 access. This infinite work might be a disadvantage for learners and pointly for teachers. This straight-out work could over stress teachers, resulting in a low quality services from instructors. (Abdou Elmulti, 2002. Dringus, 2003 Newton, 2003 Kathawala, Schifter, 2004).Poor course design could appear a major barrier in implementation of E-learning as it could frustrate the learners and teachers. (Young and Bal, 2003 Smulders, 2003 Howell, Williams Lindsay 2003 Gordon, Young Bal, 2003 Svensson, 2004 Ivergard Hunt, 2005 ).Cronje (2009) sees some influential barriers such as student barriers are related to lack of financial support from their families and cooperation among peers and from teachers (Cronje, 2009 Galusha, 1997). skill barriers the lack of funds is the most important one. Institutes attitude towards the lecturers that some time seems less prominent among their peers is considered another important barrier in successful E-learning (Cronje, 2009 Galusha, 1997). org anizational barriers poor funding for three major cost areas are considered more crucial barriers e.g. Initial costs of the implementation process, maintenance and up gradation.Course barriers course design is regarded as most important one. Poor course design is one of reasons of inferiority of Distance learning. Conversion of teaching context in to electronic perform could not add any value to E-learning (Cronje, 2009 Galusha, 1997) Boondao et al. (2008) mentioned, It is not possible, in the view of some scholars, to create a model of the good teacher without pickings issues of culture and context into account. The influence of culture cannot be ignored in successful implementation of E-learning. Considering learners from different culture e.g. east and west, learners from both cultures have particular approaches and styles of learning. Therefore, lack of consideration of cultural issues during designing could prove as a barrier in successful implementation of E-learning (Boondao et al, 2008).Discussing the different critical barriersNowadays an escalating add up of companies are implementing E-learning System (Mungania, 2003). But as these companies try to take advantages of E-learning to gain strategic and competitive advantages in absolute urgency, there are significant number of barriers to the implementation of E-learning come across to halt them (Simmons, 2002, p.19 and Mungania, (2003). As E-learning barriers are diverse and can be classified as personal, organizational, situational, instructional and technological. (Mungania, 2003) Moreover Khans E-learning framework provides dilate on critical issues which may come across E-learning implementation process. Khans E-learning framework composed of eight dimensions institutional, management, pedagogical, technological, interface design, ethical, evaluation, and resource support.Institutional IssuesInstitutions need to build a complete plan for the successful implementation of E learning system (Khan 2005, p.23). Moreover Childs et al (2005) stated that institution should focus on cultural aspects for the implementation process of E learning system which have a significant effect upon the success of E-learning process (Cronje, 2009).E-learning needs to be integrated to all departments of the institution therefore a strong commitment is needed from the institution and the trainers Childs et al (2005). Moreover, E-learning implementation plan must be fully aligned with the institutions ambitions and strategic plans (Galusha, 1997 Belanger and Jordan, 2000). Therefore E-learning implementation process is paradigm shift for the institution as a whole which includes learners, instructors, administrators, technical and other support services staff (Romiszowski, 2004).To support institutions in strategic planning, change management and process development which are necessary to highlight their embedding process and issues which may occur in their organization (Childs et al (2005) and K han 2005,p.23). Khan has shared out institution issue into three parts administrative affairs, academic affairs and student services (Khan 2005, p. 24). Administrative affairs which includes organization and change (implementation of E-learning system), budgeting and progeny on investment, course information catalog, financial aid, course schedule, tuition fees, registration and payment, information technology services, instructional design, whereas academic affairs issues such as policies, instructional quality, faculty and staff support, intellectual property rights and so on (Khan 2005, p. 24 ). Moreover Student services deals with student support services for E-learning effectiveness.Management issuesMagalhaes (2008) stated that lack of management support is number one barrier towards successful implementation of E-learning system in institution. Management issues of E-learning in organization refers to various phases of electric pig such as scheduling, design, construction, assessment, delivery, and maintenance (Romiszowski 2003 and Parkham et al, 2004). Managing issues in organizations depend upon various elements including content delivery, and technology Trentin (2003). Khan (2005) also stated that for the success of E learning system institution must focus on three key areas people, process, and products involved in E-learning projects which depends upon integrated team approach (Jung, 2003).Critical management factors categorized by Khan (2005) are mentioned belowTechnological IssuesTechnological limitations are among the major barriers for the success of E-learning system (Wong, 2007).Technological limitations of E-learning system relates to computer hardware, software program and relevant resources (Wong, 2007).Connectivity problems, lack of training, seafaring issues, limitations of 24/7 technical support, loss of data and incapability to save or transfer data are the most common technological limitations (Mungania, 2003). unremarkably downh earted and medium enterprises fail to implement E-learning system due to lack of support in hardware and software (Sambrook, 2003Wong, 2007).The technological issues can be divided into three parts infrastructure planning, hardware, and software (Kearsley, 2000 Rumble, 2000).Success of E learming system in organizations depends upon infrastructure planning which includes a well documented strategy, focusing on infrastructure. (McGraw, 2001 Romiszowski, 2004).As E-learning environment depends on digital infrastructure, there for institutions should have consistent and well-organized networks to support E-learning (khan 2005, p.154). Moreover institutions should develop policies and guidelines to cater various issues of hardware, software, and networks as institutions involved in implementation of E-learning may suffer. (Wong, 2007, Romiszowski, 2004)Learners require basic hardware for E-learning such as desktop or notebook computers and printers (Kathawala, Abdou, Elmulti, 2002Hiltz, 1997, Wong, 2007). Therefore, one of the major technological limitations of E-learning is the availability of computer hardware (wong,2007). major(ip) hardware limitations of E-learning system is the necessity of relevant resources which includes servers, modems, microphones, wireless devices, printers, scanners, computers, networking devices, cameras storage devices and other equipments. (Wong, 2007, Khan 2005, p.159)Institution experience similar problems such as software costs as well as software support cost, particularly for software licenses which acts as a significant barrier (khan 2005, p.159). Software includes word processors, databases, e-mail, intro programs, reader software, browsers and plug-ins, spreadsheets, learning management systems (LMS), authoring tools and enterprise software and so on (LytasPauloudi,2001 and Khan 2005, p.159-160)Pedagogical IssuesSuccess of E-learning systems implementation depends on the adherence to underlay pedagogical principles that are entrenched in the E-learning (Uhomoibhi, 2006). Pedagogical issues in E-learning are major challenges in distance education therefore a strong need of resources for development of the course material arisesBarriers to Implementing an E-Learning SystemBarriers to Implementing an E-Learning SystemGeneral Introduction/BackgroundIn todays world of globalization, knowledge and learning is considered the most vital element for acquiring competitive advantage (Longworth and Davies, 1996). For gaining competitive advantage firms and institutions are becoming more knowledge intensive, therefore they concentrate more on managing and sharing knowledge to gain significant advantage of this knowledge (Hertog and Sluijs, 1995).Traditional education style has remained consistent without any changes been made to the system. This has enabled a large number of creative thinkers to ponder other possible educational approaches that could benefit the system (Gnes, 2008). On the other hand, technology i s necessary in order to conquer, but it is also a necessity to remain in competition. All the sectors, whether it is primary, manufacturing or tertiary, all of them have been forced to accept technology to become innovative and efficient (Gnes, 2008).Technology has not only radically changed the ways and methods of our works but is now beginning to transform the education system (Webster and Murphy, 2008).With the use of internet technologies, firms and institutions have outstanding opportunities to deliver education and different training techniques through strategic use of internet technologies (Lee, 2006 Kaohsiung Taiwan, 2006). The use of Internet technologies combined with suitable learning strategies assists to provide an open, flexible and dynamic learning environment. As a result many corporations, government agencies and academic institutions worldwide have increased the use of internet and educational technologies to deliver instructions and provide training. This innovati ve approach of delivering information and education is known as E-learning (Khan, 2008). E-learning can be simply defined as the way of learning which delivers its contents through World Wide Web (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). Sharifabadi defined E-learning as the term used to describe teaching and learning resources or experiences that is, in some way, delivered electronically. (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Sharifabadi, 2006, p.391).E-learning is a way of interaction through electronic mediums, mainly computers, by using videos, photos, texts and sounds for different educational purposes (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). E-learning system creates a learning opportunity for the convenience of those who do not have the opportunity to be physically available, due to various reasons (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Werry, 2002). Hence, during the late 1990s and early 2000 many online universities were established and more universities were offering online courses, but mixed results of the E-learning syste ms were encountered (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). Different researches have pointed out many barriers in E-learnings implementation, which lead to its failure. For example technological infrastructure, course content quality, financial support, learners computing skills, staff training, management support and organizations culture resistance (Romiszowski, 2003, Childs et al, 2005, Muilenburg and Berge, 2005).Organizations cultural resistance is considered as the most influential barrier in E-learnings implementation process. The cultures resistance or resistance from the potential users negatively affects the implementation process. Unwillingness of the employees can create major problems for the managers and can lead to the system failure (Shields and Young, 1989, p. 22). Employees resistance and avoiding of the use of required procedures and rules could lead the system to failure even if it has been developed perfectly and is ready to use (Malmi, 1997, p. 475). In this instant the m anagers cannot gain full benefits of the new system unless they can create a change in the employees attitude (Yates, 1997, p. 164). Cultural differences among peers could create many problems in implementation of E-learning system. Therefore, if the cultural issues are overlooked during implementation, their ignorance could act as a vital barrier in E-learnings success (AL-Hunaiyyan et al, 2008 Gujar and Sonone, 2004).Problem statementThere are different articles and books available in the market which mentioned about the usefulness and advantages of E-learning. Web-based learning is a new medium of information technology researchers have mentioned many different factors which act as barriers towards implementing E-learning system (Ngai et al., 2007). There are different factors cited by various authors which exist in their research papers that can help us to identify critical barriers. In addition, we are interested in finding out, to which extent an organization is dependent on t he role of its culture, and how culture can lead to success or failure of the E-learning system. It should be noted that culture has a great impact in organizations and are important when decision making is involved in IT management. In this regard, an organization is said to be confronted with stiff resistance, consequently making IT management a difficult task (Childs et al, 2005). To overcome the barriers for implementing E- learning, an organization should try and manage these barriers accordingly because they are critical to any organizations general business model and can equally affect the organizations decision making process.Research questionWhat are the critical barriers of implementing E-learning system and what is the role of organizational culture in successful implementation of E-learning system?Objectives and Purpose of the ResearchThe purpose of this research is to describe and analyze the critical factors which may affect the implementation of E-learning system. Inv estigating the barriers of implementing E-learning system would help to lower down the barriers in future implementation. Moreover by examining the cultural influence of an organization towards E-learning systems implementation process, it will be easier to identify a complete outline for organizations to implement E-Learning system and to make the system work efficiently and successfully.Thesis designThe structure of the thesis is principally focused on six chapters which includeChapter 1 Introduction/BackgroundThe Introduction gives brief overview of the research topic, including the purpose and objectives, problems and research question.Chapter 2 Research Design/MethodsThis chapter deals with the choice of topic, research process which indicates how these datas will be analyzed, data collection, validity and reliability, and method critique.Chapter 3 Framework of referenceThis chapter discusses relevant theories to give the reader an understanding of the barriers which come acros s E-learning systems implementation processes cited by different authors.Chapter 4 FindingsThis chapter provides frequencies of different barriers for implementing E-learning system described by different authors.Chapter 5 AnalysisThis chapter will describe the analysis based on the findings.Chapter 6 ConclusionsThis section finally concludes the lessons drawn from the findingsResearch Design/MethodsThis chapter deals with the choice of topic, research process which indicates how these datas will be analyzed, data collection, validity and reliability, and method critique.Choice of TopicFisher (2007, p.31-33) suggested that authors should choose research area according to their interests, so they remain motivated and committed to complete the project. The authors belong to Pakistan, where E-learning system is not much in practiced in organizations. While, E-learning system is already in use in Sweden, we found out that E-learning system is a proficient tool in learning process. There fore, it was quite intriguing for us to explore this topic. In addition, we were interested in finding out the barriers for implementation of E-learning system and to investigate the role of organizations culture for successful implementation of E-learning system. Fisher (2007, p.31-33) urges that chosen topic should be accessible and it is necessary to make sure that quite literature is available for making detail analysis. We are certain that our topic is enough interesting, significant and demanding for all researchers, businesses managers and Information Technology Management students.Research ProcessThere are various methodological approaches to carry out research i.e. Realist research, exploratory research, critical realism, standpoint research, action research and phenomenology etc, Fisher (2007, p.15). In addition, Fisher (2007, p.153-155) mentioned two kinds of discoveries e.g. Explorers and Surveyors. A kind of research where an open approach is used with conceptual framew ork but the authors are not sure about outcomes and results of the work they do, is called exploratory research. On the other hand surveyors discovery approach is pre-structured where surveyors are already inform of the results and out come of their work. According to these concepts our research is exploratory as we are dependent on secondary data.Data Collection and sourceFisher (2007, p.45) states that data could be collected from existing databases, through questionnaires, conducting fieldwork or performing case studies as it depends on the kind of research. In this research entire data has been collected from available databases as the research is entirely based on secondary data collection method. Secondary source has been used in this research. The data was extracted from articles, books and websites, magazines, journals and articles with focus on critical barriers to E-learning implementation.Fisher stated that (2007, P.158-161) data could be qualitative or quantitative depen ding on the method of research study. A quantitative approach has been used here in this research. No statistics has been used in this research and as all research has been analyzed by row not figures.Access of informationSecondary data has extracted from different sources. The required literature has been acquired by searching Mlardalen Universitys library. Furthermore, we have used online library (ebrary) as well as other librarys database such as Elin, Emerald, Eric and EBSCO for articles and journals, which have helped us to answer our research query. Going through a wide-ranging literature review, twenty five articles were identified that give answer to the research question from distinct angles. To identify the barriers to Implementation of E-learning system, keyword search criteria based on title contained Barriers of E-learning system implementation, Implications of E-learning system in organizations, Implementation of E-learning system in large organization, Challenges of E-learning Implementation, Limitations of E-learning System,To describe and analyze the role of organizations culture for successful implementation of E-learning system in organization, keyword search criteria contained Cultural issues of E-leaning system, Cultural Influence on online Learning, Cultural influence on student learning, Analyzing cultural Influences on E-learning Transactional Issue, Cultural difference and influence on E-learning, Social and cultural impact on E-learning Effectiveness, A cultural Analysis of relearning for developed and developing countries, Cross and Multicultural issues for E-learning success, Influence of organizational cultural in E-learning, Organizational resistance towards implementing E-learning system.Data AnalysisAccording to Miles and Huberman (1994, p.10) data analysis consists of three parallel flows of activity (1) Data reduction, (2) Data display, and (3) Conclusion drawing/verification. Furthermore they suggested that data analysis com ponents could be successfully integrated during data analysis, as it is an iterative and continuous process (Miles and Huberman 1994). They have stated three components of activities that describe analysis which are First is data reduction that is focused on selection, simplification and transformation of data (Miles and Huberman 1994). This process is applied in qualitative data. The objective of this is data is to help drawing final conclusion and verification.In this study data is taken from the studies where authors cited barriers to implement E-learning with focus on cultural resistance in an organization. Second is data display i.e. data reduced in data reduction needs to be organized that help to draw conclusion easily. In table mentioned below, different factors related to critical barriers to implementation of E-learning system and the role of organizations culture is given below along with the frequency of each factor. Third is the conclusion based on drawing/verifying des cribes the possible explanations, causal flows and propositions to be made. Therefore based on the findings and discussed analysis, conclusions would be drawn to signify the influential role of organizations culture towards the implementation process.Validity and ReliabilityValidity is defined as the degree which researchers have measured what they have set out to measure (Kumar, 2005) whereas reliability means the extent to which another researcher can reach the same conclusion by following the same research process (Taylor et al., 2006).Several articles have been used to identify the barriers of implementing E-learning system and to analyze the role of organizational culture. Besides, frequencies of more influential barriers have been generated to validate the barriers and cultural role in implementation process.Method CritiqueDue to the time limitation, a limited number of articles have been used to formulate the frequency to identify the critical barriers. It could be better to use more articles to strengthen our research as a number of studies have already been done in this area. However this study will describe and analyze the critical barriers for the implementation of E-learning system related literature and to gain a theoretical background. It was also discovered during analysis of this study that most of the authors mentioned the critical factors with mere repetition with diverse definitions.Framework of ReferenceThis chapter discusses relevant theories to give the reader an understanding of the barriers which come across E-learning systems implementation processes cited by different authors.E-learningWhat is E-learning?E-learning can be defined as learning and communication exercises across computers and networks or electronic sources. (Wong, 2007 Schank, 2002 Roffe, 2002 Tsai Machado, 2002 Sambrook, 2003 Fry Wild, Grggs and Downing, 2002) have defined E-learning as delivery of training and education via networked interactivity and distribution t echnologies.According to Khan (2008), the word E-learning is used for an open, flexible, and diverse E-learning environment. E-learning can be analyzed as an inventive approach for delivering learner-centered, well designed, interactive, and facilitated learning environment to anyplace, anyone, anytime by utilizing the features and resources of different digital technologies along with other forms of learning materials suited for open, distributed, and flexible learning environment (Khan, 2008).In E-learning system Students are able to interact anytime from anywhere with different instructional material (text, sound, pictures, video and so on) through Internet. Furthermore, learners can even communicate with teachers and classmates both individually and as a group discussion with the use of message boards, instant message exchanges and video conferencing. (Al-Ammari and Hamad, 2008 Andersson, 2009 Zhang and Zhou, 2003). (Lee, 2006) Therefore, E-learning has been defined variously, l earning system using different carrying technologies and techniques like Computer Based Training (CBT), Internet-based training (IBT), Web-based instruction (WBI), distributed learning (DL), advanced distributed learning (ADL), distance learning, online learning (OL), mobile learning (or m-learning) or remote learning and learning management systems (LMS) (Khan, 2008).For managing learning environment like, registration of learners, scheduling learning resources, controlling and guidance of learning processes and analyzing learners performance are all accomplish in Learning Management System (LMS) (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Brown, 2006).In 1970s and 1980s distance learning started becoming popular and sued to conduct through postal mail but in 1990s the rise of World Wide Web changed the nature distance learning. With the use of this technology learners can get a number of resources from their teachers like discussion forums, multimedia, chat, video conferencing and electronic black boards.These changes which have been brought in distance education are an attempt to provide easier access to students who live very far from universities, who are working or have other reasons for not being able to attend in person. In the US in the academic year 2001-2, five million people took at least one course online, and three million were enrolled in online degree programs (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Kazmer Haythornthwaite, 2005, p.7). It can be seen in these figures that distance education online has become a popular alternative to face-to-face instruction.Implementation of E-learningOne of the following three approaches is necessary for the implementation of the E-learning system To strengthen the traditional face-to-face courses with support of new communication technology, enhancement of experience with in traditional courses by integration of online activities and delivery of entirely online courses. In this implementation the readiness of some influential factors like b udgeting, infrastructure planning, human resource development (experience, skills, knowledge and attitude of the end users) are most common.Uhomoibhi (2006) stated that E-learning initiators, institutions must use and prepare strategies for adoption, diffusion and implementation. For a successful implementation of online environment where learners can actively learn and get support from well-organized approach is mandatory. Processes of planning, designing, development and evaluation are all parts of a successful implementation that could help to lower down the barriers of implementation (Uhomoibhi, 2006). An E-learning system can only be successful if it is significant to all stakeholders e.g. instructors, learners support services staff and the institutions itself.In order for learners to become quickly accustomed to E-learning, it must be made sure that it is easily accessible, efficient, well designed course, affordable, and has a facilitated learning environment. Instructors mu st feel a sense of accomplishment when learners meet the goals and objectives of the course in a successful way. Technical support staff should feel happy when learners receive reliable services without interruptions. One of the most important factors for institutions is the profit they earn as well as the satisfaction of the learner and a low rate of dropouts (Khan, 2005).A strong foundation is required in order to have an effective implementation of E-learning. Aligning and communication are two important factors in implementation of E-learning system. It is necessary to make sure the communication is in order. Involvement of key stakeholders at the decision making stage or any other early process is very important(Khan, 2005). Communication is also important for those who are directly responsible for the implementation and professionals also suggest a horizontal leadership style so that everyone is responsible for their actions. This includes individuals who are critical to the i mplementations success which include line, functional and divisional leaders. There should be consistent scheduled meetings with these individuals to discuss the newly arising issues in the project to come up with a solution (Khan, 2005). Most of the pitfalls of E-learning are tied to technological issues so it is important to involve IT leadership throughout the project to mitigate the problems in implementation process. Creation of helpdesk for reporting of IT related issues is more important. While selecting the vendors it is important to make sure that the vendors have an outstanding and proven record. Strong communication and feedback from vendors is a necessary step for a successful implementation (Khan, 2005).An overview of the critical issues in E-learning implementationWorldwide, E-learning arises as a new paradigm of advance education with a growing rate of 36.5 percent in the market, but still failures exist (Sun et al., 2008). As many companies are moving very fast to th e adoption of E-learning in order to reap its benefits but they are facing significant barriers in its implementation and adoption, which leads them to implementation failure (Mungania, 2003). Hence, to mitigate this failure we have to investigate key factors that encompass different dimensions of an open, flexible and advanced distributed learning environment for diverse learners (Khan, 2005). Literature has mentioned a wide range of factors that can influence the successful implementation of E-learning e.g. some talks about pedagogical issues, faculty issues and organizational issues while some may have discussed about personal issues, cultural issues and some other issues. A broad range of factors that can influence the success of E-learning environments has been mentioned in the literature. However, there is no organized work to characterize collective group of most influential issues or factors, which could be seen as barriers Wong (2007). Distinct authors consider different ba rriers as most influential in implementation of E-learning Wong (2007).Wong (2007) has categorized E-learning limitations in three main areas technological limitations, personal issues and other limitations. The lack of hardware, limited Internet coverage and low bandwidth are all consider as technological barriers in implementation of E- learning (Hiltz, 1997 Kathawala, Abdou, Elmulti, 2002 Wong, 2007). Kember et al., 2001 Dearnley, 2003) stated that personal issues are mostly related to learners and teachers. Teachers should give a complete guidance to the learners about this new and non-traditional system to prepare new learners psychologically (Wong, 2007 Kember et al., 2001 Dearnley, 2003). For learners the use of new technologies could be a disadvantage or barrier in E- learning. So the lack information, communication and technological skills might be barriers to E-learning because learners could get frustrated from this unconventional learning environment. (Wong, 2007 Carr, 1999 Hamid, 2002 Angelina, 2002a, p.12)The freedom provided by E-learning could be a disadvantage for the learners as internal motivation and self discipline is required at its maximum which learners may find hard to achieve in order to complete their studies or assignments in time. As (Wong, 2007 Kearsley, 2000) Schott et al., 2003 Rivera and Rice, 2002 Abouchedid and Eid, 2004).In E-learning environment students are usually supposed to communicate in a text based environment so learners poor writing skills might be a disadvantage in E- learning. Therefore, the inability of communicating efficiently of learners could create misunderstandings (Wong, 2007 Smith Rupp, 2004). Others limitations E-learning provides 247 access. This infinite work might be a disadvantage for learners and particularly for teachers. This unlimited work could over stress teachers, resulting in a low quality services from instructors. (Abdou Elmulti, 2002. Dringus, 2003 Newton, 2003 Kathawala, Schifter, 2 004).Poor course design could appear a major barrier in implementation of E-learning as it could frustrate the learners and teachers. (Young and Bal, 2003 Smulders, 2003 Howell, Williams Lindsay 2003 Gordon, Young Bal, 2003 Svensson, 2004 Ivergard Hunt, 2005 ).Cronje (2009) sees some influential barriers such as student barriers are related to lack of financial support from their families and cooperation among peers and from teachers (Cronje, 2009 Galusha, 1997). Faculty barriers the lack of funds is the most important one. Institutes attitude towards the lecturers that some time seems less prominent among their peers is considered another important barrier in successful E-learning (Cronje, 2009 Galusha, 1997). Organizational barriers poor funding for three major costs areas are considered more crucial barriers e.g. Initial costs of the implementation process, maintenance and up gradation.Course barriers course design is regarded as most important one. Poor course design is one o f reasons of inferiority of Distance learning. Conversion of teaching context in to electronic shape could not add any value to E-learning (Cronje, 2009 Galusha, 1997) Boondao et al. (2008) mentioned, It is not possible, in the view of some scholars, to create a model of the good teacher without taking issues of culture and context into account. The influence of culture cannot be ignored in successful implementation of E-learning. Considering learners from different culture e.g. east and west, learners from both cultures have particular approaches and styles of learning. Therefore, lack of consideration of cultural issues during designing could prove as a barrier in successful implementation of E-learning (Boondao et al, 2008).Discussing the different critical barriersNowadays an escalating amount of companies are implementing E-learning System (Mungania, 2003). But as these companies try to take advantages of E-learning to gain strategic and competitive advantages in absolute urgen cy, there are significant number of barriers to the implementation of E-learning come across to halt them (Simmons, 2002, p.19 and Mungania, (2003). As E-learning barriers are diverse and can be classified as personal, organizational, situational, instructional and technological. (Mungania, 2003) Moreover Khans E-learning framework provides details on critical issues which may come across E-learning implementation process. Khans E-learning framework composed of eight dimensions institutional, management, pedagogical, technological, interface design, ethical, evaluation, and resource support.Institutional IssuesInstitutions need to build a complete plan for the successful implementation of E learning system (Khan 2005, p.23). Moreover Childs et al (2005) stated that institution should focus on cultural aspects for the implementation process of E learning system which have a significant effect upon the success of E-learning process (Cronje, 2009).E-learning needs to be integrated to a ll departments of the institution therefore a strong commitment is needed from the institution and the trainers Childs et al (2005). Moreover, E-learning implementation plan must be fully aligned with the institutions ambitions and strategic plans (Galusha, 1997 Belanger and Jordan, 2000). Therefore E-learning implementation process is paradigm shift for the institution as a whole which includes learners, instructors, administrators, technical and other support services staff (Romiszowski, 2004).To support institutions in strategic planning, change management and process development which are necessary to highlight their embedding process and issues which may occur in their organization (Childs et al (2005) and Khan 2005,p.23). Khan has divided institution issue into three parts administrative affairs, academic affairs and student services (Khan 2005, p. 24). Administrative affairs which includes organization and change (implementation of E-learning system), budgeting and return on investment, course information catalog, financial aid, course schedule, tuition fees, registration and payment, information technology services, instructional design, whereas academic affairs issues such as policies, instructional quality, faculty and staff support, intellectual property rights and so on (Khan 2005, p. 24 ). Moreover Student services deals with student support services for E-learning effectiveness.Management issuesMagalhaes (2008) stated that lack of management support is number one barrier towards successful implementation of E-learning system in institution. Management issues of E-learning in organization refers to various phases of administration such as scheduling, design, construction, assessment, delivery, and maintenance (Romiszowski 2003 and Parkham et al, 2004). Managing issues in organizations depend upon various elements including content delivery, and technology Trentin (2003). Khan (2005) also stated that for the success of E learning system institution must focus on three key areas people, process, and products involved in E-learning projects which depends upon integrated team approach (Jung, 2003).Critical management factors categorized by Khan (2005) are mentioned belowTechnological IssuesTechnological limitations are among the major barriers for the success of E-learning system (Wong, 2007).Technological limitations of E-learning system relates to computer hardware, software and relevant resources (Wong, 2007).Connectivity problems, lack of training, navigation issues, limitations of 24/7 technical support, loss of data and incapability to save or transfer data are the most common technological limitations (Mungania, 2003). Usually small and medium enterprises fail to implement E-learning system due to lack of support in hardware and software (Sambrook, 2003Wong, 2007).The technological issues can be divided into three parts infrastructure planning, hardware, and software (Kearsley, 2000 Rumble, 2000).Success of E learming sys tem in organizations depends upon infrastructure planning which includes a well documented strategy, focusing on infrastructure. (McGraw, 2001 Romiszowski, 2004).As E-learning environment depends on digital infrastructure, there for institutions should have consistent and well-organized networks to support E-learning (khan 2005, p.154). Moreover institutions should develop policies and guidelines to cater various issues of hardware, software, and networks as institutions involved in implementation of E-learning may suffer. (Wong, 2007, Romiszowski, 2004)Learners require basic hardware for E-learning such as desktop or notebook computers and printers (Kathawala, Abdou, Elmulti, 2002Hiltz, 1997, Wong, 2007). Therefore, one of the major technological limitations of E-learning is the availability of computer hardware (wong,2007). Major hardware limitations of E-learning system is the necessity of relevant resources which includes servers, modems, microphones, wireless devices, printers, scanners, computers, networking devices, cameras storage devices and other equipments. (Wong, 2007, Khan 2005, p.159)Institution experience similar problems such as software costs as well as software support cost, particularly for software licenses which acts as a significant barrier (khan 2005, p.159). Software includes word processors, databases, e-mail, presentation programs, reader software, browsers and plug-ins, spreadsheets, learning management systems (LMS), authoring tools and enterprise software and so on (LytasPauloudi,2001 and Khan 2005, p.159-160)Pedagogical IssuesSuccess of E-learning systems implementation depends on the adherence to underlay pedagogical principles that are entrenched in the E-learning (Uhomoibhi, 2006). Pedagogical issues in E-learning are major challenges in distance education therefore a strong need of resources for development of the course material arises