Virtual learning environments: pedagogy and technology

Using a virtual learning environment in higher education to support independent and collaborative learning.

Bennet, C., y Pilkington, R.

E- Learning and technology

Although a wide range of definitions of e-learning have been proposed over a period of several decades, each one usually reflects the relationship:

between

Pedagogy and technology

However

The most simplistic (and far too common) definitions such as online access to learning resources, anywhere anytime, do not reflect how the access to technology will improve the quality of the learning process.

Virtual (Learning) environments

The position of the TR is that the effective use of a VLE can full the definition of learning (and ETL) identified above.

However

In line with simpson (2001) the TR also argues that unless the virtual learning environments is used to enhance the learning environments of the students over traditional face to face interactions.

VLE

Offers a number of general benefits that can enhance delivery, over and above providing an electronic copy of resources of students access.

Computer mediated communication

For the purpose of this study, (MC is characterised as text based interaction conducted through a technological medium.

Although

This definition does not encompass the whole potential of CMC, it does sit the needs of this study as the communication medium used to conduct the online tutorial will be text.

Advantages of VLE

Hannun (2001} has suggested that the advantages of VLE over 2 approaches can be agrouped into three categories:

Logistical, instructional, economical

The greatest logistical advantage of VLE is its flexible, distributed delivery that allows tutors and students to participate from any geographical location at any time.

The economy advantage is that VLE can eliminate the cost related to travel and time away for home, the most districtive instructional advantage is the ability of the learners to interact.

MONSERRAT AMARO AYALA