Distributed e-Learning Programme II (DEL II)

Learning from the Distributed e-Learning Programme 1 (DEL1) has provided an insight into the need and potential for use of digitised learning objects in HLST. Furthermore, the Subject Centre is now more aware of the complexity of the e-learning arena within hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism. Aspects of sport provision particularly, such as sport and exercise science laboratory based courses, partly as a result of dealing with such large numbers of students, are taking advantage of the benefits that an e-dimension can bring to learning. In contrast, within hospitality, leisure and tourism there are less examples of extensive application of e-learning.

Girl outdoors with laptop

In addition to the work being undertaken to develop digitised learning objects by the Subject Centre and within institutions, examples of current developments within the subjects are notably the work being undertaken by FDTL projects. Three of the seven HLST projects specifically relate to e-learning, these approach the development of a virtual biomechanics laboratory, a co-operative e-image resource library, and the creation of an on-line assessment system for sport and exercise science students.

Much interest has been shown by subject staff in the potential for e-learning, but the resources required to support its development are often beyond those available within many departments. Examples of this interest relate to the use of e-learning:

  • In accounting courses where there has already been some developmental work
  • By staff delivering HE programmes within FE institutions for shared teaching and assessment resources
  • In order to improve the capacity of staff to give effective feedback to students
  • To support the provision of PDP for students
  • To enhance delivery of research methods programmes

The extensive introduction of foundation degrees within HLST subject areas creates a new need for the use of e-learning, given the requirement within these programmes for work-based learning and assessment.

HLST has received funding from the JISC and the Higher Education Academy to complete further work in this area during 2006 and through 2007, under the Distributed e-Learning Programme II (DEL II).

The HLST project will lead to the development and testing of themed e-learning resources, according to identified needs, suitable for use within HLST courses, together with support for the uptake of the materials developed.

Jorum, a JISC funded free online service for UK Higher and Further Education institutions, will be working with the HLST Network to make subject resources available over the coming year. Initially this will include reusable learning objects from the DEL 1 project, suitable for use within sport and exercise physiology and biomechanics courses, and then further materials will be produced as part of the DEL II project as outlined above.

 

We would like to hear from you if you are interested in contributing to this project by telling us what you might need from it and what you think potential uses might be, contributing to the development of resources by evaluating the outcomes, or by becoming involved in anyway.

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