Staff Perspectives on ILT: Findings from a National Evaluation of the Learning and Skills Sector

Abstract

This chapter examines staff perceptions of information and learning technology (ILT) in the UK learning and skills sector. It is divided into two sections dealing in turn with pedagogic and cultural issues. The section on pedagogical issues explores the use of the VLE/intranet as an alternative teaching method, and asks why these modes of learning are comparatively rare in the learning and skills sector. This section is also concerned with perceptions of the impact of ILT on students’ retention and attainment and explores the concept of variable use and variable impact by level and subject area. The cultural and infrastructure issues explored in the second section relate to staff development and training opportunities (such as the number and type of courses offered), the additional help requested, and the barriers to further uptake.