Last year we highlighted research we did into why staff chose to engage with e-learning.  One motivating influence which had a strong effect in overriding personal preferences was where there was a local culture of e-learning. This meant that it was part of the practice of the group and not an optional extra.  Students expected an agreed level of e-learning, and the group came together to provide that and improve their practice.

Some areas in our University seemed to have this local culture well established, while in other areas e-learning was only done in an ad-hoc way by those that were interested. Since this seemed to be an important factor in the success of e-learning in groups, we have created a guide for local leaders (i.e., course leaders, subject area leaders, possibly programme leaders) which highlights the features of a local culture of e-learning, and lists actions you can do to make that feature an integrated part of your local culture.

Many groups may already be doing some of the actions listed in the document, or other actions may not be appropriate for your group’s context.  If you wish to discuss the local culture document and how to apply it to your context, please contact Brian Irwin.