e-Learning Stuff Podcast #028: The VLE is Dead

The VLE is Dead!
A recording of the symposium run at ALT-C 2009 in which Steve
Wheeler, Graham Attwell, James Clay and Nick Sharratt, with Josie
Fraser in the Chair; discuss the if and how we should be using
VLEs to enhance and enrich learning.


This is the twenty eighth e-Learning Stuff Podcast, The
VLE is Dead.


Shownotes


ALT-C 2009 Conference

The VLE is Dead

Watch the video recording of the debate (instead of listening
to the audio).



The future success of e-learning depends on appropriate selection
of tools and services. This symposium will propose that the
Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) as an institutional tool is
dead, no more, defunct, expired.


The first panel member, Steve Wheeler, will argue that many VLEs
are not fit for purpose, and masquerade as solutions for the
management of online learning. Some are little more than
glorified e-mail systems. They will argue that VLEs provide a
negative experience for learners.


The second member of the panel, Graham Attwell, believes that the
VLE is dead and that the Personal Learning Environment (PLE) is
the solution to the needs of diverse learners. PLEs provide
opportunities for learners, offering users the ability to develop
their own spaces in which to reflect on their learning.


The third panel member, James Clay, however, believes that the
VLE is not yet dead as a concept, but can be the starting point
of a journey for many learners. Creating an online environment
involving multiple tools that provides for an enhanced experience
for learners can involve a VLE as a hub or centre.


The fourth panel member, Nick Sharratt, argues for the concept of
the institutional VLE as essentially sound. VLEs provide a
stable, reliable, self-contained and safe environment in which
all teaching and learning activities can be conducted. It
provides the best environment for the variety of learners within
institutions.


The session was chaired by Josie Fraser.


Photo source