This is the first in a series of posts exploring the 6 guiding principles behind why we promote e-learning at Sheffield Hallam University. Each of the principles underscores the benefits of integrating e-learning opportunities into the curriculum, and each is supported here by student quotes from research into how our students use technology to support and enhance their learning.  Today’s guiding principle:

An educational experience that supports their development
to live, learn and work in the digital age

Increasingly our lives include technology of one form or another.  The ways in which we communicate with each other personally and collaborate at work are changing.  Our students should be prepared to succeed in this world, with the new opportunities and challenges it brings.

“Every kind of professional activity involves some kind of using computers or technology in general, so I think it will prepare me better for normal job, normal life.”

When entering the University, all of our students are not the same in terms of their comfort with technology and ability to function in the digital age.  However, e-learning experiences can play a role in helping ensure all of our students leave prepared for future work, life, and learning opportunities.

“Before starting Uni I’d never even gone near a computer or even turned a computer on at all so for me I’ve learnt a lot, especially since coming here, using the Blackboard site more, having to email your lecturers and things as well, so I found it really, really helpful for me and it gives you a bit more confidence as well, using the computer.”

For further information on all the guiding principles, you can read them in a handout we’ve created.