Communication model draws international attention

Wednesday, 13 June 2007, 10:42 am
Press Release: Open Polytechnic

Open Polytechnic communication model draws international attention

A communication methodology for e-Learning, jointly developed by communication lecturers Deirdre Viviers and Dr Gary Mersham at The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand, has caught the imagination of delegates from Britain, Europe and the United States at an international e-Learning conference. It was selected as one of the key themes for further discussion in the conference research seminars.

The research paper, entitled ‘Looking at distance and blended learning through the lens of a communication model’ was delivered by Deirdre Viviers at the Solstice Researching eLearning for Innovation and Development Conference recently held at the Edge Hill University, UK.

Edge Hill University is the recipient of numerous awards as a Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning in the UK.

Interested delegates explained that their institutions lack an unambiguous, tried and logical model that can guide the transition from traditional face-to-face delivery to distributed, distance and electronic delivery methods.

The Edge Hill International Office approached Deirdre to discuss future collaboration and interaction with the Open Polytechnic, and a large commercial supplier contracted by the UK Ministry of Education to provide guidance on e-Learning, is also interested in the model.

“As a specialist open and distance learning provider, The Open Polytechnic is well attuned to the emerging elearning environment," says Deirdre. "My overall impression is that the Polytechnic compares extremely well in terms of the practise of e-Learning in the international context.”

Co-researcher Gary Mersham explains that "flexibility in learning has become paramount as an increasing number of adult learners opt to upskill themselves while remaining in the work force. While expertise in the information and communication technologies of delivery have become strategically important in higher education, we must remember that technologies are another tool to aid communication, and not a replacement for good communication".

The model analyses amongst other things the various aspects of provision of e-learning in the organisational, national and international contexts; the effectiveness of the types of communication media available (web, email, online forums, podcasting, e-portfolios; blogs, wikis); the impact of cultural and linguistic differences and institutional cultures; student access to ‘push’ and ‘pull’ technologies; synchronous and asynchronous communications and team and learner-centred approaches to online learning.

The Open Polytechnic teaches a range of communications courses from certificate to degree level, including web writing and design, technical communication and public relations.

ENDS

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