Redevelopment of an e-learning module to provide supported open learning

Alan Boddy

MSc in Oncology and Palliative Care

• Distance learning course (other strands)• 10 years – gradual evolution• Delivered via Blackboard• Reliance on e-books• Broad range of professional backgrounds• Wide geographical distribution

Onc8001

– Cancer Pharmacology– Content heavy– Demanding in terms of concepts– Very heavy reliance on e-books– Single written piece of work for summative

assessment– Dry!

Feedback on Onc8001

“This module is too time heavy with too much reading and would benefit from a

more interactive structure”

Supported Open Learning

• Supported Open Learning = students choose ‘where’=support from tutor(s) :eg advice, feedback= contact with other students

• HOW? = High quality resources and assessment =delivery =commitment from students

COMMUNITY

Community

Commitment, organisation and self motivation

Sense of belonging –personalised

Flexible, engaging and learner centred

Encourages interaction :collaboration

Supported Open LearningShifting the workload balance to improve the quality of student learning

ONC8001

ONC8019

Changing the medium• PDF to CMS

Changing the medium• PDF to CMS

What worked?ResourcesOnline content expanded Journal articles Youtube videos Panopto recordings ActivitiesReflective journal Blogs Wikis Assessment MCQsPowerpoint presentation 1000 word essay

Success?• “the activities were fun” • “ great for structure and knowing what to do” • ”promoted interest in the subject and made me think”

• Grades 62-82 %• Less plagiarism

• Assessment pieces – more enjoyable to read

Where next?

• Induction– Icebreaker activity– support learners in developing confidence and competence

in learning in a digital environment• Group work • Management of blogs• Content – question and reveal

Onc8019 for the future

• Good feedback from students– “Knew clearly what was expected of you”– “Good balance between things to read, video and

activities”– “Gave an in-depth understanding”

• Is this e-learning (as opposed to e-teaching)?• It takes a lot longer than you think!