The document discusses the integration of e-learning technologies at the University of Hertfordshire to enhance student learning experiences. It highlights methods such as video diaries and the use of managed learning environments (Studynet) to gather student feedback and promote engagement. Key findings indicate that students value online resources and support, and that technology plays a critical role in their learning journey.

1. Embedding e-learning – investigating the student experience of using technology to support learning Amanda Jefferies Blended Learning Unit Evaluation Coordinator, University of Hertfordshire

2. The University of Hertfordshire Progressive 21 st century university Student expectation Easy access, anytime, everywhere Use of ICT Existing university wide MLE (StudyNet) Full exploitation of the e-environment

3. “ Supporting the Net Generation Learner” MySpace Youtube MSN Gadgets Our Learners

4. Embedding e-learning technologies An holistic Blended Learning approach at Hertfordshire Supporting staff in embedding e-learning in their teaching Supporting students with an emphasis on blended learning Examples in use How we investigated the student experience What the students think

5. Blended Learning – University of Hertfordshire’s definition: “ Educational provision where high quality e-learning opportunities and excellent campus based learning are combined or blended in coherent, reflective and innovative ways so that learning is enhanced and choice is increased ”

6. Blended Learning: “Harnessing technology to enhance Learning, Teaching and Assessment”. Better use of F2F Greater flexibility New ways to communicate New ways to collaborate Improved feedback

7. Laptops and tablet PCs for staff Technology in the classroom Developing innovative practice

8. StudyNet – the Managed Learning Environment 4000 course modules 25,000 personal portals 7 million logins a year Learning & teaching Information sources Communication Graduate skills Disability support Stimulus for innovation

9. Increasing student engagement with EVS Virtual Classroom Technology

10. Example: First year BEd Students Staff said: “ How do I get students to study outside class” “ What are they doing in independent study time?” “ Why do they rely on me?”

11. Introduce Blogs for students and staff Ongoing out of class blogging 132 students Reflective practice Visible to students and staff Modelling appropriate behaviours Deeper learning

12. Outcome for Education Students more prepared for face-to-face sessions Students using StudyNet more effectively Better quality assignments More questioning students

13. Example:2 nd year Combined Studies Computing Staff said: “ How can my students do group work outside the University?” “ How do I encourage students to produce learning resources?”

14. Introduce the use of Wiki to support group work Extend face-to-face group work sessions 90 students Private and public group areas Accessible 24/7 Student generated content for cohort and own group

15. Wiki Usage over 4 weeks

16. Using student centred methods to investigate learning experiences The video diaries project 7 days in the life of a student The STROLL project JISC funded research into the learners’ journeys

17. Objectives of the video diaries 7 days project To allow students to provide feedback using a medium where they could be ‘themselves’ To explore what students really think about their learning experience, in their own words To give staff at the university a detailed insight into students’ views and behaviours To provide powerful data that would support research already conducted with students at the university

18. Finding out about students’ learning experiences… 7 days in February 2007 13 students - video-diaries and audio logs 7 coloured envelopes Text message sent everyday Students recorded their personal reflections and how they used technologies to support their learning Students commented on the use by academics of the e-learning environment and how changes to pedagogy might promote the student learning experience.

19. Analysis of data Watched videos and transcribed relevant comments Themes were identified by the team according to students’ comments Themes from 2007 case study: Learning enhancement by lecturers StudyNet and university resources available Communication methods used by lecturers Study behaviours outside of class time

20. Some Results… Students find lecturers’ support outside of class time very valuable StudyNet features including discussion forum and podcasts provided immense support for students’ learning Students spend a lot of time outside the classroom online Most students reported their use of social networks such as Facebook or MySpace Students indicate a balance of lifestyle but will often choose to study outside a Monday -Friday 9-5 window and at weekends

21. The STROLL project ( STudent Reflections on Lifelong e-Learning) 2 years March 2007 to February 2009 funded by JISC Video and audio reflections of the students’ ‘learners’ journeys’ 36 + students involved from FE and HE and across u/g programmes Recording a week’s reflections on 4 occasions at 6 monthly intervals Four key research areas How do learners experience change through their learning journey? How do students use and make choices about their time? How do students use e-learning tools to support their learning? How do students use their personal technologies?

22. Early findings from STROLL I am an addict to face book… I am always on social networks because I think they are absolutely amazing , Technology is a big part of my life, both in working and playing the first thing I do in the morning is to switch on my TV and my computer because I have to check my e-mails Pod cast continues to be a great inspiration to the way I learn, I find it so helpful to listen to again and again I feel Study Net is a great inspiration in the learning process. At college if I missed a class I would very rarely get the opportunity to catch up on what I had missed

23. Reflection on embedding e-learning Think of a specific programme or module you teach on What aspects of e-learning are currently used to support the students? How do you know what the students think? What might be used to promote a blended approach in the future? Discuss in 2s and 3s

24. Thank you for listening For more information The Blended Learning Unit www.herts.ac.uk/blu The STROLL project http://www.jisc.ac.uk/whatwedo/programmes/elearning_pedagogy/elp_lxpstroll.aspx Amanda Jefferies [email_address]