|
Flexible Learning and in particular online
learning is still evolving, and there is a lot of current
research looking at what constitutes good practice. Links
to some of this research can be found below. Most of this
research focuses on online learning, that being the newest,
and least well understood component of a flexible learning
approach.
The following benchmarks for good practice
come from the Australian Flexible Learning Framework Strategy
2000 National Project, Flexible Learning Best Practice Project
(http://the.flexiblelearning.net.au/practice/bestpractice/)
| 1.
Organisational Commitment |
2.
The Learning Experience |
|
| Good
practice in Executive Commitment includes |
- a clear vision for the development
of online learning
- a strategic plan which reflects
the online learning vision
|
|
| Good
practice in Learning Programs includes |
- an educational rationale for decisions
about choice of platform
- agreed standards for the design
of learning programs, and assessment
procedures
- understanding by developers of
the differences between online and
face-to-face teaching and assessment
- incorporation of adult learning
principles in program design
- use of communication tools to
promote interactivity and collaboration
· procedures to maintain,
review and update learning programs
|
|
| Good
practice in Management includes |
- strategies to
manage the changes, and risks, associated
with online learning
- identification
of potential online clients and
their needs
- use of partnerships
to maximise the quality and diversity
of offerings
- use of research
to keep pace with current developments,
and stimulate innovation
- a systematic
approach to the professional development
of all staff involved
|
|
| Good
practice in Evaluation includes |
- strategies to
review and enhance the quality of
online offerings
- a systematic
process for gathering and analysing
client feedback
- a plan to measure
longer term outcomes and cost effectiveness
|
|
| Good
practice in Student Support includes |
- learner-focused
website providing course details
- enrolment information,
orientation, career counselling
and other support services
- programs that
assist learners to use the online
system, and develop information
literacy
- tracking systems
to monitor learner activity online
- access
to comprehensive help systems
|
|
|
| 3.
Technology |
4.
Facilitation |
|
| Good
practice in Technology includes |
- use of the VET preferred standards
for decisions about technology infrastructure
- a technology plan, linked to larger
organisational planning
- adequate measures to maintain
the security and reliability of
the system
- easy access to technical support
for staff and learners
- alternative technology options
available to low end users
|
|
| Good
practice in Technology includes |
- understanding the differences
between online and face-to-face
teaching and assessment
- efficient management of online
communication with individuals and
groups of learners
- adapting online communication
to learners' preferences and contexts
- quick response times for feedback
to learners · accommodating
learners with a range of learning
needs, styles and contexts
- supporting and mentoring inexperienced
facilitators
- maintaining innovative practice
through knowledge of current research
and trends
|
|
|
|
|
 |
