The e-Learning movement as a process of quality improvement in higher education
Journal
Educational Research and Evaluation
Date Issued
2005
Abstract
Quality in education has been recognized as an issue that should guide our efforts for improvement of teaching and learning processes. e-learning is the latest attempt to take advantage of developments in technology to improve learning. In this paper, we discuss the possibility of establishing a theory of e-learning, the value of design patterns, and the possible scenarios of implementation by higher education institutions attempting to use new technologies. We present the results of a survey concerning students' and faculty members' views regarding e-learning implementation. Data collection was accomplished through a specially designed questionnaire administered to 1,938 students and 46 faculty members. Ten faculty members were also interviewed for more in-depth analysis. Based on the results of the survey, we propose a series of actions which could form the basis for developing an e-learning policy through continuous improvement of a university's teaching program and we discuss wider implications for teaching and learning.