2.1. Summary for why you might want an MLE
Although the aim of this infoKit is to direct people as quickly as possible to the relevant sections this represents a fair amount of reading. Therefore, it is worth summarising the main points and arguments raised in this section:
Why might you want an MLE? The reasons presented fall under three categories: the advantages to administration (tracking students, facilitating easy interchange of data between systems etc.); the advantages for learning (MLEs encourage a learner-centred approach, instant and easy access by the learner to relevant information to support their study, etc); and the political benefits (maintaining a national profile, keeping in tune with Government initiatives, etc.)
How have others gone about answering this question? For the most part the majority of institutions have set up a new 'committee' or used an existing one to start to discuss the issues surrounding MLE implementation. To assist in this process institutions may wish to look to such methods as setting up 'roundtables' which might offer some guidelines for increasing discussion and efficiency.
Who should be involved? It is clear that there are a range of 'stakeholders' who should possibly be involved, though there are clearly some core ones. There can be problems with striving for full representation as this may lead to increased bureaucracy, and there are also further complications when working across sites. The most important figure is that of a senior manager or Pro-Vice Chancellor who must at the very least be seen to be supporting the project.
What are the questions you should be asking? There are clearly a set of questions that need to be discussed from the outset, such as what does everyone want from an MLE. In order to do this you will need to have a clear understanding of the processes already in place in your institution. Existing models for looking at systems may be of use here.
Issues. The most important issue that will arise (which is discussed in 'Understanding your Organisation') is that of readiness for change, i.e. is your institution ready for such a major initiative? Does it have change management systems in place or relevant experience to help this along?
