flex-e-bility

In Flapping not flying: a strategic framework for e-learning and pedagogical innovation in higher education institutions (Salmon, 2005) describes many institutional responses to e-learning implementation as ‘banal and obvious’ (Salmon, 2005, p.203). Examples include the use of powerpoint presentations and ‘minimum online presence’. Using the development of an e-learning strategy at the University of Leicestor, Salmon (2005) identifies the desirable characteristics as:

• a focus on innovative pedagogy
• concern for both core and peripheral technologies;
• a realistic approach to marketing and market development
• embeddedness of e-learning in the Universities overall aspirations
• the need to determine and make explicit the purpose of pedagogical innovation and the objectives of e-learning
• the importance of making existing values within the university
• consistency with wider national frameworks and ideas.

Salmon, G. (2005). Flying not flapping: A strategic framework for pedagogic innovation in higher education institutions. ALT-J Research in learning technology, 13(3), 201-218.