Findings from European benchmarking exercises on e-learning: value and impact
Author
Summary, in English
Benchmarking is becoming a more and more commonly used method for quality assurance and enhancement in higher education today. The aim of this study was to explore the impact and value of benchmarking e-learning in universities. Two European benchmarking initiatives, E-xcellence+ through the European Association of Distance Teaching Universities [EADTU] and an e-learning benchmarking exercise through the European Centre for Strategic Management of Universities [ESMU], were studied using an exploratory multiple case study method and cross-case analysis of the findings. The open-ended research questions followed the themes of: why is benchmarking used, what is benchmarking e-learning? when is benchmarking used? etc. The findings indicated the value and impact of a variety of aspects of benchmarking e-learning on different levels, and stressed the need for a holistic and contextual approach as both benchmarking and e-learning are complex and comprehensive phenomena. This study also shows that benchmarking, in line with national and international quality boards/agencies, is a powerful tool for making improvements to teaching and learning in higher education.
Publishing year
2011
Language
English
Pages
208-219
Publication/Series
Creative Education
Volume
2
Issue
3
Document type
Journal article
Publisher
Scientific Research Publishing (SCIRP)
Topic
- Educational Sciences
Keywords
- web-based learning
- online learning
- e-learning
- critical success factors
- quality enhancement
- Benchmarking
- quality assurance
- change management
- SoTL
Status
Published
ISBN/ISSN/Other
- ISSN: 2151-4771