e=Q - Press Release

The web is changing the way we learn.

True, the traditional course or classroom will continue.    But innovative providers are finding new ways to support learning:

• exploiting new technologies, from mobiles to podcasts to e-books;
• adding online support to existing education and training;
• building materials around the plethora of information already on the web;
• making learning interactive and fun, with games and simulations;
• helping learners to learn together.

We call it e-learning.    The extent of the 'e-' may range from the supplemental to the essential, but few courses can manage with no 'e-' at all.

To respond to this, ODL QC is launching the e=Quality Initiative (or e=Q for short).

We will not be changing our standards; we think they apply to all learning support, including e-learning.

But we will be developing new approaches to the assessment:   to test whether new kinds of learning opportunity can offer excellence in the way that more traditional methods can offer.

We will also be introducing new services to support providers as they move into cyberspace, to help them develop e-learning that meets ODL QC standards.

For however they learn, learners will still want assurance that the opportunities on offer are good quality, and will help them learn effectively and efficiently.    Particularly if they have to pay.

ODL QC exists to identify and support the good provider, and to make sure the learner knows how to find them.    The e=Quality Initiative aims to ensure that we can do that across the ever-growing spectrum of learning opportunities now available.

- - - Ends - - -

For more contact Julie Fox at julie@odlqc.org.uk