1. Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Review Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services Upgrade or switch?

2. VLE review | why a review now? Need to upgrade our current version of Blackboard (Bb) A growing number of HEIs have looked at the Moodle alternative At a turning point in how the University uses technology enhanced learning Review has two elements: User needs analysis and systems preferences Other considerations A report will go to SMT early June Planning on phased implementation 2011-2012 Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services

3. VLE review | what we are evaluating Blackboard (Bb) version 9.1 and Moodle 2.0 Why just Bb and Moodle? There are few other VLEs on the market. Bb holds 55% of the market, Moodle 23% Is widespread agreement in the sector that all VLEs have similar capability – what differentiates them is: Licensing Maintenance, support and development model How configured, and how they integrate with other systems System interface and structure Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services

4. VLE review | needs analysis and user preferences Key considerations – user evaluation: What we currently use Bb for What likely future needs we will have That both systems can do what we want Which systems staff and students prefer Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services

5. VLE review | other considerations Key considerations - other: Potential new functions Data security and system resilience Resourcing implications of upgrading v switching Compatibility with associated software Integration with other systems including student record system Transition options, strategies and timescales University’s new strategic plan Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services

6. VLE review | systems demo and questions Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services Upgrade or switch?

7. VLE review | key similarities and differences Similarities: Secure environment Home page Course areas Hold a wide variety file types including media Have a variety of interactive tools including discussion board, blogs, wikis, Both have on screen editing/control panel Both can be configured by the institution in terms of look and feel Both have assessment e-submission capabilities Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services

8. VLE review | key similarities and differences Differences: Course structure - sub-folders in Bb, flat in Moodle Use different approaches for course announcements – Moodle uses a news forum for this. No course email in Moodle - again, messages need to be sent via forums. Bb has an official mobile app, Moodle currently in development. Moodle has extended profile functionality. Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services

9. VLE review | your views Learning & Teaching Enhancement Unit | Computing Services | Corporate Information Services Over to you – the PCs in this room are pointing to an online anonymous survey which we would be grateful if you could complete. Thank you for your views and time.

10. Take the anonymous online questionnaire to give us your views at: https://survey.canterbury.ac.uk/vlestaff/ https://survey.canterbury.ac.uk/vlestaff/