E-learning in Higher Education Professor Paul Bacsich Sheffield Hallam University Ramkhamhaeng University 27 February 2002

Topics Definition of e-learning SWOT analysis of e-learning Examples of UK activities Issues in e-learning

Definition The use of Internet and communications technology to deliver and support learning by students both at a distance and on campus – includes use of e-content – but is more than that

E-learning commentary Not “pure” use of print materials Includes television and video (technological convergence) Does not exclude f2f (blended learning) Has many uses on-campus and near-campus (residences)

E-L compared with f2f Strengths: – Any time any place (Martini) – Less pressure on performance skills – Potential lower institutional costs Weaknesses: – Much higher development costs – Higher technology costs for institution and students – More need for pedagogic planning

E-L compared with f2f Opportunities: – Allows more diverse groups of students – May reduce need for f2f contact for routine questions, advice etc – Gets students used to Internet – Encourages team working (employers) Threats: – Change; but – US entrants may take e-students

UK HE examples University for Industry eUniversity Open University Consortia of universities (Universitas 21, World University Network) Virtual Campus operations

E-courses - examples Use of e-content to speed up the learning of IT Use of collaborative tools in MBA Computer Assisted Language Learning Master class lectures

E-content and IT Learning of Microsoft systems (Word, PowerPoint, etc) Several suppliers have packages that train students (and staff) in these packages Reduces need for specialised instructors Allows individualised instruction

E-courses - MBA Use of collaborative tools in MBA Much syndicate work can be done not f2f but over the network Can use asynchronous tools (computer conferencing) if done over several days Or synchronous tools when time- limited simulations are needed

E-courses - collaboration Use of collaborative tools Also useful for discussing ethical, medical, philosophical, legal or regulatory issues especially in situations where “there is no right answer” allows students to learn from each other and differ from instructor view without an overt challenge

E-courses - CALL Computer Assisted Language Learning useful for areas of rote learning – e.g. alphabet, grammar etc but also for “situated” learning (video) especially in real-world situations use of text chat to embed learning and develop social skills in language

E-courses Master class lectures Allows use of “remote” experts – in other universities or industry or not resident in Thailand and use of Thai experts to disseminate expertise – to industry etc Need not be a long linear video

Issues in e-learning Technology is soluble/buyable Staff development: – how to use the packages – why to use the packages student support management understanding of the issues that concern staff: – training, rewards, time and cost

Time and cost issues Developing content takes time and concentration but teaching using e-content may save staff time (eg in IT skills) Different kinds of time e-learning may save costs but more normally changes the pattern of costs

Thank you for listening Paul Bacsich Sheffield Hallam University