implementing e-learning Introduction

Gauging Your Position: Where Do You Want To Go?

This set of resources attempts to cover the whole spectrum of advice that you might need to consider in relation to e-learning development. The lifecycle approach means that you can step on or off at any point - so the set of tools provided here can be used whether you are starting out on this road, are half-way along the route or have come to a cul-de-sac pondering how to progress - you may even need to do a U-turn...

The context and emphasis of each of the resources will depend on where you are starting from and where you are wanting to go...at a very generic level the options are represented below. The core good practice models that follow this section will be needed whatever your situation, although their context and priority may differ. However, within each of the individual phases some resources may be applicable to a lesser or greater extent depending on your position - e.g. the System Selection infoKit under the Planning Phase will be of little use if you are not selecting new tools or systems; however components of the Implementation infoKit such as Training and Staff Development will be of use even if you're not implementing new tools. Each of the analysis, planning, implementation and review quadrants is prefaced by some pointers on how resources may fit the context of your general goals.

A useful tool for analysing where you are and where you want to go with regard to e-learning is the matrix that was developed as part of the JISC/UCISA Landscape Survey. This allows you to evaluate your current and planned position on a spectrum that goes from the use of some standalone e-learning tools to the integration of organisational systems and components (processes and IT) that support teaching and learning into what has been termed a 'Managed Learning Environment' (MLE).