НАУЧНИ ТРУДОВЕ НА РУСЕНСКИЯ УНИВЕРСИТЕТ - 2010, том 49, серия 3.2 - 63 - Learning Styles and E-Learning Face-to-Face to the Traditional Learning Nina Bencheva Learning Styles and E-Learning Face-to-Face to the Traditional learning: The article considers an analysis of the knowledge delivery methods: traditional learning, blended learning and E-Learning. A literature review and analysis of the delivery methods have been done. Comparison between traditional learning and E-Learning is made. The most important advantages and disadvantages of the different delivery methods are analyzed. Key words: Learning, traditional learning, blended learning, E-Learning, delivery methods. INTRUDUCTION What is learning? – People all learn in different ways from listening, watching, questioning, doing and helping others to learn [11]. Different learners have different cognitive processes, learning style preferences and past experiences that they apply when learning takes place [4, 5, 10, 15]. An individual’s learning style will affect the manner in which information is processed during learning and thinking, having a considerable effect on the learning effectiveness and efficiency [10]. Sadler-Smith [13] referred to 3 dimensions of learning preferences: • Dependent learners – prefer instructor-directed, highly structured programmes with explicit assignments and assessment by the instructor; • Collaborative learners – are discussion oriented and favour group projects, collaborative assignments and social interaction; • Autonomous learners – prefer to exercise an influence on the content and structure of the learning programmes within which the instructor is a resource. Just as there are different methodologies that learners prefer in a classroom situation it is reasonable to assume that the same situation exists when someone is using a technology-supported environment. Ross and Schulz [12] suggest that computer aided instruction may not be the most appropriate method of learning for all students. What is E-Learning? – We can essentially consider E-Learning as the computer and network enabled transfer of skills and knowledge. E-Learning refers to using electronic applications and processes to learn. E-Learning applications and processes include Web- based learning, computer-based learning, virtual classrooms and digital collaboration. Content is delivered via the Internet, intranet/extranet, audio or video tape, satellite TV, and CD-ROM. It can be self paced or instructor led and includes media in the form of text, image, animation, streaming video and audio. In the GrayHarriman [3] the differences between the different type of E-Learning resources are given: • Online Learning takes place via the Web and may include text, graphics, animation, audio, video, discussion boards, e-mail, and testing. Online learning is typically "on demand" and self-directed but may include synchronous chat, web based teleconferencing (audiographics), or similar technology. • Distance Learning is learning that takes place when the instructor and the learner are not in the same physical location. It can also take place if the instructor and the learner are in the same location but not at the same time. Today distance learning is carried out via a number of media ranging from postal mail to teleconferencing or the Internet. "Distance Learning" (learner focus) and "distance education" (instructor focus) are often used as interchangeable terms. In reality, however, Learning is the result of Education. • Blended learning combines online with face-to-face learning. The goal of blended learning is to provide the most efficient and effective instruction experience by combining delivery modalities. The term "blended learning" is used to describe a solution that combines several different delivery methods, such as collaboration software, Web-based