This is the second 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:

Flexibility to engage with learning materials, tutors and peers in a way that suits their increasingly busy lifestyles

Today’s students often balance study time with employment time (about 50% of full-time students at SHU are in paid employment during study) and personal commitments such as caring and other family responsibilities.  Gone are the days where students solely study while at university, and the learning experience they have needs to be flexible to fit in with their busy schedules.  A number of our students do not live close enough to be able to drop by the University to take advantage of additional on campus opportunities, so a flexible online approach can help them have a quality learning experience from work or home as well.

“I’m at work at the moment and I’ve been on Blackboard all night, checking my emails, looking at lecture slides. It’s brilliant that BB is accessible from outside uni, and makes life so much simpler!!!”

Students also value the ability to easily review learning materials and engage with additional support resources.  Online learning can provide new opportunities and ways for students to engage with learning materials and each other, such as asynchronous communication in discussion boards where they can discuss outside of the classroom.

“Personally I love the flexibility that comes with being able to access previous lectures and other information at the touch of a button. I also find it handy to be able to communicate with a large group of people at once.”

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