Barriers to Implementing E-learning System in Organizations

Barriers to Implementing E- accomplishment System in Organizations1.0 General introduction/backgroundThis chapter deals with general introduction and the background of the interrogation argona. It in like manner contains the problem line of reasoning, documentarys/purpose, interrogation header, and the structure of the thesis.In todays creation of globalization, fellowship and larn is considered most vital element for acquiring competitive advantage (Longworth and Davies, 1996). For gaining competitive advantage firms and intromissions ar becoming more than knowledge intensive, thusly they concentrate on managing and sharing knowledge to gain signifi atomic number 50t advantage of this knowledge (Hertog and Sluijs, 1995).Traditional commandment style has remained consistent with step to the fore any agitates been made to the agreement. This has enabled a cosmic number of creative thinkers to ponder other possible educational advancementes that could benefit the d odging (Gnes, 2008). On the other hand, engine room is necessary in tell to conquer, save it also a necessity to remain in competition. All the sectors, whether it is primary, manufacturing or tertiary, all of them deal been forced to accept technology to be seeded player forward-looking and in effect(p) (Gnes, 2008).Technology has not only radically changed the modalitys and methods of our bailiwicks further is now beginning to transform the education system (Webster and Murphy, 2008).With the recitation of net profit technologies, firms and institutions hasten outstanding opportunities to deliver education and varied cookery techniques through strategical use of internet technologies (Lee, 2006 Kaohsiung Taiwan, 2006). The use of net profit technologies combined with sui disconcert skill strategies assists to allow an open, flexible and dynamic teaching environment. As a result galore(postnominal) corporations, goernment agencies and academic institutions wor ldwide pretend increased the use of internet and educational technologies to deliver instructions and provide training. This in advance(p) approach of delivering entropy and education is known as E- accomplishment ( caravanserai, 2008). E-learning fundament 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 use to secernate doctrine and learning resources or experiences that is, in or so 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 antithetical educational purposes (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). E-learning system renders a learning opportunity for the convenience of those who dont lay down the opportunity to be physically available due to various reasons (Gulatee and Combes, 2007 Werry, 2002). Hence, dur ing the late 1990s and early 2000 many virtual(prenominal) universities were peeed and more universities were offering online courses, but mixed results of the e learning systems were encountered (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). Different researches withstand pointed out many parapets in e learnings go throughation, which strike to its failure. For exemplar scientific infrastructure, course content quality, finance obtain, apprentices computing skills, rung training, management back up and validations destination impedance (Romiszowski, 2003, Childs et al, 2005, Muilenburg and Berge, 2005).Organizations heathen resistance is considered as the most powerful hindrance in e learnings death penalty military operation. The cultures resistance or resistance from the potential users negatively relates the capital punishment process. Un volitioningness 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 s the managers 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 execution of e learning system. accordingly, if the heathenish issues be overlooked during executing, their ignorance could act as a vital barrier in e learnings success. (AL-Hunaiyyan et al, 2008 Gujar and Sonone, 2004)1.1 Problem statement in that location atomic number 18 different articles and books available in the market which mention astir(predicate) the usefulness and advantages of E learning. Web- ground learning is a new medium of teaching technology researchers have mentioned many different factors which act as barriers towards implementing E-learning system (Ngai et al., 2007). There be different factors cited by various authors which exist in their research document that can do us to identify circumstantial barriers. In addition, we are interested in finding out, to which extent an organization is dependent on the office 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 chief(prenominal) 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 operose childbed (Childs et al, 2005). To over complete 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 evenly affect the organizations decision making process.1.2 look for questionWhat are the critical barriers of implementing e -learning system and what is the single-valued function of organizational culture in productive capital punishment of E-learning system?1.3 Objectives and end of the ResearchThe purpose of this research is to attain and break apart the critical factors which whitethorn affect the performance of e-learning system. Investigating the barriers of implementing e-learning system would help to lower piling the barriers in future capital punishment. Moreover by examining the cultural influence of an organization towards e-learning systems implementation process, it bequeath be easier to identify a contend outline for organizations to implement E erudition system and to make the system work efficiently and luckyly.1.4 Thesis designThe structure of the thesis is principally focused on sixer chapters which take onChapter 1 Introduction/BackgroundThe Introduction gives brief overview of the research topic, including the purpose and objectives, problems and research question.Chapt er 2 Research Design/MethodsThis chapter deals with the choice of topic, research process which indicates how these infos will be decomposed, entropy collection, validity and reliability, and method critique.Chapter 3 Framework of referenceThis chapter discusses relevant theories to give the reader an judgment of the barriers which come crossways E learning systems implementation processes cited by different authors.Chapter 4 FindingsThis chapter provides frequencies of different barriers for implementing E learning system identifyd by different authors.Chapter 5 AnalysisThis chapter will describe the abstract ground on the findings.Chapter 6 ConclusionsThis section finally concludes the lessons drawn from the findings2.0 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.2.1 Choice of Topic fisher cat (2007, p.31-33) suggested t hat authors should choose research area according to their interests, so they remain motivated and committed to free the project. The authors get going to Pakistan, where E-learning system is not much in practiced in organizations. maculation, e learning system is already in use in Sweden, we show that E-learning system is a proficient tool in learning process. Therefore, it was rather 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 happy implementation of E-learning system. fisherman (2007, p.31-33) urges that chosen topic should be accessible and it is necessary to make received that quite literature is available for making detail analysis. We are certain that our topic is enough interesting, large and demanding for all researchers, businesses managers and Information Technology Management students.2.2 Research functionTher e are various methodological approaches to carry out research i.e. Realist research, explorative 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 framework but the authors are not sure nigh 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.2.3 Data Collection and sourceFisher (2007, p. 45) states that data could be collected from actual databases, through questionnaires, conducting fieldwork or perform case studies as it depends on the kind of research. In this research entire data has been collecte d from available databases as the research is entirely based on secondary data collection method. randomnessary 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 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 words not figures.2.4 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 thoroughly as other librarys database much(prenominal) as Elin, Emerald, Eric and EBSCO for articles and journals, which have helped us to answer our research query. Going through a wid e-ranging literature review, twenty tail fin articles were identified that give answer to the research question from distinct angles. To identify the barriers to writ of execution of E-learning system, cayword 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 coun tries, Cross and Multicultural issues for e learning success, Influence of organizational cultural in E learning, Organizational resistance towards implementing E learning system.2.5 Data AnalysisAccording to Miles and Huberman (1994) the data analysis consists of iii parallel flows of activity (1) Data reduction, (2) Data display, and (3) Conclusion drawing/ deterrent (p. 10). 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 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 final stage 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 describes the possible ex purposeations, 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 processThe above model is used for the analysis of this research. Moreover, this analysis emphasizes more on comparing various authors view on to analyze and describe the critical barriers and role of culture to employ E-learning system in organizations.2.6 Validity and ReliabilityValidity is defined as the degree w hich researchers have careful what they have set out to measure (Kumar, 2005) whereas reliability means the extent to which another researcher can reach the analogous conclusion by quest 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.2.7 Method CritiqueDue to the limitation of time, a limited number of articles have been used to acquire 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 do 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 speculative background. It was also discovered durin g analysis of this study that most of the authors mentioned the critical factors with mere repetition with assorted definitions.3.0 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.3.1 E-learning3.1.1 What is E-learning?E-learning can be defined as learning and colloquy exercises across computers and networks or electronic sources. (Wong, 2007 Schank, 2002 Roffe, 2002 Tsai Machado, 2002 Sambrook, 2003 claw Wild, Grggs and Downing, 2002) have defined E-learning as delivery of training and education via networked interactivity and distribution technologies.According to caravan inn (2008), the word e-learning is used for an open, flexible, and diversed-learning environment. E-learning can be viewed as an innovative approach for delivering well designed, learner-centered, interactive, and facilitated learning environment to any one, anyplace, anytime by utilizing the attributes and resources of various digital technologies along with other forms of learning materials suited for open, flexible, and distributed 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 expire with teachers and classmates both respectively and as a group backchat 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, learning system using different carrying technologies and techniques standardized computing machine Based Training (CBT), Internet-based training (IBT), Web-based instruction (WBI), distributed learning (DL), advanced distributed learning (ADL), space learning, online learning (OL), mobile learning (or m-learning) or remote learning and learning management systems (LMS) (Khan, 2008).For managing learning environment resembling, 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 cold from universities, who are working or have other reasons for not being able to attend in person. In the US in the academic twelvemonth 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 personal instruction.3.2 Implementation of E-learningOne of the following three approaches is necessary for the implementation of the e-learning system To strengthen the tralatitious face-to-face courses with house of new communication technology, enhancement of learning experience with in traditional courses by integration of online activities and delivery of entirely online courses. In this implementation the avidity of many influential factors like budgeting, 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 substitute from well-organized approach is mandatory. Processes of planning, designing, development and military rank are all parts of a successful implementation that could help to lower down the barriers of implementation. An e-learning system can only be successful if it is significant to all stakeholders e.g. instructors, learners support operate 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 must 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 service without interruptions. One of the most important factors for institutions is the profit they earn as well as the triumph 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. aline 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. Communication is also important for those who are in a flash trusty 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, available and divisional leaders. There should be consistent memoriald meetings with these individuals to discuss the newly arising issues in the project to come up with a solution. Most of the pitfalls of e-learning are fix to technical 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.3.3 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% in the market, but still failures exist. 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.(http//www.citeulike.org/user/jdellano/article/5315881) (Simmons, 2002, p.19). (Mungania, 2003)Hence, to mitigate this failure we have to investig ate 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 eon some whitethorn 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, thither is no organized work to characterize collective group of most influential issues or factors, which could be seen as barriers. (Successful wala article)Distinct authors consider different barriers as most influential in implementation of e-learning.Wong (2007) has categorized e-learning limitations in three main areas technological limitations, personal issues and other limitations. The lack of hardware, limi ted Internet coverage and low bandwidth are all consider as technological barriers in implementation of e learning. (Wong, 2007 Kathawala, Abdou, Elmulti, 2002 Hiltz, 1997).(Chadha Kumail, 2002, p.28).Roy (1996, p.9) // where u use this referencePersonal issues are generally 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 bilk from this unlawful 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 utmost 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 hypothetical to communicate in a text based environment so learners poor writing skills might be a disadvantage in e learning. Therefore, the unfitness 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 breed 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 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). capability 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, fear 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 scope 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).3.4 Discussing the different critical barriers3.4.1 A Framework for E-LearningThese days an escalating amount of companies are implementing E-learning System (Mungania, 2003).. except as these companies try to take advantages of E-learning to gain strategic and competitive advantages in absolute urgency, there are significant number barriers to the implementation of E-learning come across to bridle them (Simmons, 2002, p.19 and Mungania, (2003). As E-learning barriers are di verse and may include as personal, organizational, situational, instructional, and technological barriers. (Mungania, 2003) Moreover khans E- learning framework provides details on critical issues which may come cross E learning implementation process. Khans E-learning framework composed of eight dimensions institutional, management, technological, pedagogical, ethical, interface design, resource support, and evaluation.3.1 institutional IssuesInstitutions need to build a complete plan for the successful implantation 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 thence a strong comment needed from the institution and the trainers Childs et al (2005). Moreover, E-learning implementation plan must be fully aligned with the institutions missions 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 that 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 ROI , course information catalog, financial aid, course schedule, tuition and fees, registration and payment, information technology services, instructional design, whereas Academic affairs is sues 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. just about of the institutional related issues are mentioned belowNeeds AssessmentNeeds analysis will assist institutions to examine the needs for their e-learning plan and establish its e-learning goals. (Khan 2005,p. 24 , Sue Childs et al.2005)Readiness AssessmentReadiness Assessment critical factors should be considered are e-learning must be Open, flexible and distributed. There are three radical types of readiness Financial Readiness which defines whether its e-learning initiative investment importance, Infrastructural readiness readiness which includes human resource readiness, equipment readiness, and technological skill readiness and cultural which are preferences of Learners instructors and the existing learning culture (Khan 2005, p.25).Organizational changeE-learning engages a change of model to some level, a change in how you deal with knowledge and its information in organization (Khan 2005, p. 26 and Sue Childs et al.2005).Budgeting and reverberation on investmentInstitutions should do costing before, during, and after the implementation of e-learning so that they are able to analyze return on investment and benefits of e Learning (Romiszowski, 2004 and Khan 2005, p.28-29).Program and course information catalogInstitution should provide precise information about their courses, schedule and fees etc (Mungania 2003, Khan 2005, p.30).Financial AidFinancial aid services should be provided to support learners by using technological and human support services (Khan 2005, p.32).PoliciesInstitutional e-learning policies must be communicated to all groups including instructors, learners, and support staff (Khan 2005, p. 35).Instructional QualityInstructional quality in e-learning creates meaningful learning environment (Khan 2005,p. 35, Muilenburg and Berge (2005), Gulatee and Combes (2007), Lum (2006), greens and Choi (2009). efficacy and Staff supportFor effective e learning instructor, faculty members as well as supporting staff should receive proper training to support the learners (Khan 2005, p.41).Intellectual property rightsInstitutions must give information to the learners, as well instructors about intellectual property rights (Khan 2005, p. 39).Learning Skills DevelopmentWell-designed learners guide can help those learners, supporting staff how have no experience with open, distributed and flexible learning environment which includes Library, Tutorial Services, and Support Network (Khan 2005, p. 39) ), Wong (2007).3.2Management issues(Magalhaes, 2008) stated that lack of management support is number one barriers towards successful implementation of E learning system in institution. Management issues of e-learning in organization refBarriers to Implementing E-learning System in OrganizationsBarriers to Implementing E-learning System in Organizations1.0 General introduction/backgroundThis chapter deals with general introduction and the background of the research area. It also contains the problem statement, objectives/purpose, research question, and the structure of the thesis.In todays world of globalization, knowledge and learning is considered 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 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 is necessary in order to conquer, but it also a necessit y 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 innovative approach of delivering information and education is kno wn 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 dont 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 virtual universities were naturalized and more universities were offering online courses, but mixed results of the e learning systems were encountered (Gulatee and Combes, 2007). Different r esearches have pointed out many barriers in e learnings implementation, which lead to its failure. For example technological infrastructure, course content quality, finance 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 managers cannot gain full benefits of the new system unless th ey 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)1.1 Problem statementThere are different articles and books available in the market which mention 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 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 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.1.2 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?1.3 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. Investigating the barriers of implementing e-learning s ystem 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.1.4 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 across E learning systems implementation processes ci ted 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 findings2.0 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.2.1 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 that E-learning system is a proficient tool in learning process. Therefore, it was quite intriguing for us to expl ore 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.2.2 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 framework but the authors are not sure about o utcomes 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.2.3 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 depending on the method of research stud y. 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 words not figures.2.4 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, Lim itations 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.2.5 Data AnalysisAccording to Miles and Huberman (1994) the data analysis consists of three parallel flows of activity (1) Data reduction, (2) Data display, and (3) Conclusion drawing/verification (p. 10). Furthermore they suggested that data analysis components could be suc cessfully 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 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 processThe above model is used for the analysis of this research. Moreover, this analysis emphasizes more on comparing various authors view on to analyze and describe the critical barriers and role of culture to employ E-learning system in organizations.2.6 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 validat e the barriers and cultural role in implementation process.2.7 Method CritiqueDue to the limitation of time, 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.3.0 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.3.1 E-learning3.1.1 What is E-learning?E-learning can be defined as learning and communication exercises across computers an d 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 technologies.According to Khan (2008), the word e-learning is used for an open, flexible, and diversed-learning environment. E-learning can be viewed as an innovative approach for delivering well designed, learner-centered, interactive, and facilitated learning environment to anyone, anyplace, anytime by utilizing the attributes and resources of various digital technologies along with other forms of learning materials suited for open, flexible, and distributed 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 i ndividually 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, learning 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 b ut 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.3.2 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 co urses with support of new communication technology, enhancement of learning 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 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. 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 must 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. Communication is also im portant 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 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. 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.3.3 An overview of the critical issues in E-learning implementat ionWorldwide, E-learning arises as a new paradigm of advance education with a growing rate of 36.5% in the market, but still failures exist. 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.(http//www.citeulike.org/user/jdellano/article/5315881) (Simmons, 2002, p.19). (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 su ccess 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. (Successful wala article)Distinct authors consider different barriers as most influential in implementation of e-learning.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. (Wong, 2007 Kathawala, Abdou, Elmulti, 2002 Hiltz, 1997).(Chadha Kumail, 2002, p.28).Roy (1996, p.9) // where u use this referencePersonal 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). Fo r 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-lear ning 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, 2004).Poor course design could appear a major barrier in implementation of e learning as it could frustrate the learners and teachers. (Young 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 Galush a, 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 of 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 (B oondao et al, 2008).3.4 Discussing the different critical barriers3.4.1 A Framework for E-LearningThese days 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 urgency, there are significant number 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 may include as personal, organizational, situational, instructional, and technological barriers. (Mungania, 2003) Moreover khans E- learning framework provides details on critical issues which may come cross E learning implementation process. Khans E-learning framework composed of eight dimensions institutional, management, technological, pedagogical, ethical, interface design, resource support, and evaluation.3.1 Institutional IssuesInstitutions need to build a complete plan for the succ essful implantation 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 comment needed from the institution and the trainers Childs et al (2005). Moreover, E-learning implementation plan must be fully aligned with the institutions missions 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 that 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 ROI , course information catalog, financial aid, course schedule, tuition and 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. Some of the institutional related issues are mentioned belowNeeds AssessmentNeeds analysis will assist institutions to examine the needs for their e-learning plan and establish its e-learning goals. (Khan 2005,p. 24 , Sue Childs et al.2005)Readiness AssessmentReadiness Assessm ent critical factors should be considered are e-learning must be Open, flexible and distributed. There are three basic types of readiness Financial Readiness which defines whether its e-learning initiative investment importance, Infrastructural readiness readiness which includes human resource readiness, equipment readiness, and technological skill readiness and cultural which are preferences of Learners instructors and the existing learning culture (Khan 2005, p.25).Organizational changeE-learning engages a change of model to some level, a change in how you deal with knowledge and its information in organization (Khan 2005, p. 26 and Sue Childs et al.2005).Budgeting and return on investmentInstitutions should do costing before, during, and after the implementation of e-learning so that they are able to analyze return on investment and benefits of e Learning (Romiszowski, 2004 and Khan 2005, p.28-29).Program and course information catalogInstitution should provide precise informatio n about their courses, schedule and fees etc (Mungania 2003, Khan 2005, p.30).Financial AidFinancial aid services should be provided to support learners by using technological and human support services (Khan 2005, p.32).PoliciesInstitutional e-learning policies must be communicated to all groups including instructors, learners, and support staff (Khan 2005, p. 35).Instructional QualityInstructional quality in e-learning creates meaningful learning environment (Khan 2005,p. 35, Muilenburg and Berge (2005), Gulatee and Combes (2007), Lum (2006), Park and Choi (2009).Faculty and Staff supportFor effective e learning instructor, faculty members as well as supporting staff should receive proper training to support the learners (Khan 2005, p.41).Intellectual property rightsInstitutions must give information to the learners, as well instructors about intellectual property rights (Khan 2005, p. 39).Learning Skills DevelopmentWell-designed learners guide can help those learners, supporting staff how have no experience with open, distributed and flexible learning environment which includes Library, Tutorial Services, and Support Network (Khan 2005, p. 39) ), Wong (2007).3.2Management issues(Magalhaes, 2008) stated that lack of management support is number one barriers towards successful implementation of E learning system in institution. Management issues of e-learning in organization ref