E-learning or web-based instruction is being rapidly embraced by most universities across the world as such media of instruction are economical, convenient and disbursable to a larger audience. In engineering education, in particular, web-mediated techniques have been receiving more attention as they suitably combine both aspects of computer-assisted learning methodologies with the access feature of the Internet at the client end. Various disciplines of engineering are receiving diverse models based on e-learning, where current technologies are redefining the concept of distance learning and the delivery of engineering education content.

This paper begins by discussing the challenges, which e-learning-based engineering education is generally facing. These challenges are then reviewed from an Egyptian perspective, where particular local impediments are highlighted with their impact on both continuing education of graduate engineers as well as degree-seeking engineering students. Egyptian efforts–probably exemplifying most developing countries-are then described and assessed.