Approaches for Flexible Delivery

Approaches for flexible delivery encompass a number of key variables, including modes and pathways, context and location, pace and style of different learners, and the ways in which learning is organised including the development of learning contracts and work-based learning agreements.

Good practice in flexible delivery highlights that good learning is based on reciprocity, authenticity and credibility between learners and tutors, independent of the mode of engagement. In the same vein, good teaching sets ground rules, provides alternative modes of participation, exemplifies models of engagement and gives access to the experience of the instructor. Good practice therefore encourages student-tutor contact, student-student co-operation and active learning. It provides prompt feedback, demonstrates and communicates high expectations, and respects diverse talents and ways of learning. Good design for flexible learning therefore includes multiple pathways, caters for multiple learning and teaching styles and preferences, multiple levels of discourse, modes and systems of meaning. It is robust, visually appropriate, rich and complex, and personalised to the needs and context of the individual learner.

Resources in support of approaches for flexible delivery include JISC publications on Effective and Innovative Practice in e-Learning, and the HE Academy guides on e-learning. These publications help practitioners to use appropriate technologies to facilitate effective learning by identifying objectives, recognising the needs of learners, selecting suitable approaches, and striking an appropriate balance between e-learning and other modes of delivery.

Other relevant resources include tools and approaches for blended learning and work-based learning, including staff development packs and e-portfolio products designed for specific vocational contexts.

Presentation materials from QAA seminars on flexible delivery also provide useful sources of information and insight into approaches for flexible delivery and learning design:

• Using LAMs at Perth College - Dawne Hodkinson