Technology-enhanced learning

Technology-enhanced learning is a key part of learning and teaching in higher education (HE). We believe institutions need to consider how they can enhance learning, teaching and assessment using appropriate technology in a way that is suited to the underlying infrastructure and practice of the institution.

Our approach to technology-enhanced learning

Heather Fry talks about technology-enhanced learning

Our policy emphasises that technology has a fundamental part to play in HE, but recognises that institutional contexts and strategies are key. Our work aims to support higher education institutions develop strategies in this area, and to help them consider how to invest block grant appropriately.

This approach aims to help institutions identify where they wish to focus attention, and will benefit them at three different levels, depending on the nature of the help:

efficiency (existing processes carried out in a more cost-effective, time-effective, sustainable or scalable manner)
enhancement (improving existing processes and the outcomes)
transformation (radical, positive change in existing processes or introducing new processes).

We will continue working with partners, particularly the Joint Information Systems Committee (the JISC) and the Higher Education Academy (the Academy), to support institutions with this work.

The Higher Education Academy and JISC are currently working in partnership to support phase 3 of the HEFCE-funded Open Educational Resources programme.

'Enhancing learning and teaching through the use of technology: a revised approach to HEFCE's strategy for e-learning' (HEFCE 2009/12) sets out the approach in full.