- This HEPI blog was kindly authored by Michael Frantzis, Principal – Professional Services (Digital) at Curio Group. Find him on LinkedIn.
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) recently confronted a pressing challenge in the realm of education technology. Its University of London (International) programme students exhibited a reluctance to embrace the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) as enthusiastically as expected. Feedback from students indicated that the existing VLE system was lacking in the appeal and functionality needed to incentivise their engagement. This raised concerns about the slower evolution of VLE technology compared to other forms of educational technology. This article will explore the policy implications of such challenges and discuss potential solutions for promoting the advancement of VLEs in the education sector.
The Evolution of VLE Technology
One of the main issues highlighted by LSE’s experience for its University of London programmes is the slower rate of evolution in VLE technology compared to other educational technologies. While ed-tech solutions have made significant advancements, VLEs have not kept pace. This mismatch poses several concerns for educational institutions. Students may disengage from VLEs, leading to a less-than-optimal learning experience. Furthermore, the inability to harness the full potential of VLEs could hinder institutions’ capacity to provide effective, flexible, and modern education in an increasingly digital world.
Policy Considerations
To address these challenges, educational institutions and policymakers must consider several key policy measures:
- Investment in VLE development: Encourage universities and educational institutions to allocate resources for the continuous development and enhancement of their VLEs. This investment can support the creation of more appealing and functional virtual learning environments, for example drawing on wider approaches in the ed-tech space such as ‘gamification’ and catering to the evolving needs and preferences of students.
- Collaboration with ed-tech companies: Promote collaborations between universities and ed-tech companies to bridge the gap between traditional VLEs and cutting-edge educational technologies. These partnerships can foster innovation and ensure that VLEs remain relevant and effective.
- Research and Development incentives: Government incentives can encourage universities to invest in research and development efforts related to VLE technology. By promoting innovation in this space, policymakers can help ensure that VLEs keep up with the rapid evolution of education technology.
- Accessibility and inclusivity: Develop policies that ensure VLEs are accessible to all students, including those with disabilities or those who may lack access to high-speed internet. This inclusivity is essential for providing equitable educational opportunities.
- Quality Assurance and standardisation: Sector regulators should establish quality standards and best practices for VLEs to maintain consistency and usability across different institutions. This standardisation can help drive improvements in VLE technology.
Solutions for the London School of Economics
The collaboration between LSE and Curio is a prime example of how institutions can address these challenges. By redesigning the VLE with a focus on aesthetics, functionality, and activities to draw students back to the VLE, the LSE successfully reinvigorated student engagement and student learning experience on the platform. Such initiatives can serve as a model for other institutions looking to transform their learning environments and demonstrate the potential for VLE technology.
Conclusion
The experience of the London School of Economics in revamping its international programme VLE highlights the importance of addressing the slower evolution of VLE technology compared to other educational technologies. To promote effective and engaging virtual learning environments, policymakers, educational institutions, and ed-tech companies must work together to invest in innovation, encourage collaboration, and ensure accessibility and inclusivity. By adopting these policy measures, the education sector can keep pace with the rapidly changing landscape of education technology, ultimately providing students with the best possible learning experience.
