RCN BMIS EHNN Joint Event

London February 2004

Considering the e-learning needs

Maureen A. Eby SHSW, The Open University

Scale of the Open University operation

250 separate course web sites in use 313 courses using FirstClass conferencing

– over 300,000 users by the end of 2003– 11,500 students on one course (T171)

136 courses using electronic assignment submission and marking (eTMA)

246 courses incorporate guided electronic resources from Open Libr@ry

The OU learning environment

Not just old traditional distance learning or new e-learning expertise in printed and AV learning materials highly-developed co-publishing business high value on range of student support, including

face-to-face

so…a new blend of: electronic services online learning multiple media learning materials effective personal local and distance support

Conferencing/ messaging

eTMAs

Lyceum

FirstClass

Basic

Structured

Tutor groups

Studyguide

Dynamiccoursecalendar

Online resources

eBooks

Other digitaldocuments

Open Libr@ry

ROUTES

eJournals

Databases

ICT preparation

and support

ICT skillsmodules

Online tuition

Bespokeweb sites

Non-academic services

Student recordBulletin boardAdmin informationGeneric study skills

Student Home

SAMSauthentication

Student

eDesktop

CD-ROMsDVDs

Connectivity?

Some e-learning challenges in health and social care

Low level of ICT skills and confidence Poor access to suitable computers and the Internet

(firewall and slow network problems) Local technical and learning support patchy Poor integration with local human resources/staff

development frameworks Difficulty getting protected time and allocated space

at work (easier at home for some) Competes with face-to-face training culture Assessment possibilities more limited Learners can feel isolated and lonely (especially with

emotionally-charged content)

More on OU e-Learning

Go to:

http://www.open.ac.uk/elearning

http://www.teachandlearn.net/