eLearning Advisors Network

Background

The eLearning Advisors Network originated from goal 2.4 of the University’s Learning and Teaching strategy (2002) which set aside Teaching Quality Enhancement Funding (TQEF) to appoint an eLearning Advisor based within LTSS and TSU. These units were merged in October 2007 to form the Education Support Unit (ESU). The main role of the adviser is to support the continuing development of the University’s eLearning Strategy and its implementation.  Since the appointment eLAN has been established to expand the reach and role and to better appreciate local needs and opportunities as well as to share good practice and draw in academics from around the university. In early 2005 an eLearning Coordinator (Dr. Nic Earle) was appointed to support the work of both eLAN and ESU in assisting faculties and departments with the implementation of appropriate eLearning.

The eLearning Advisors Network held the first monthly meeting in December 2003, and have begun the process of publicising the network and speaking to faculties about needs and potential assistance.

ELAN has identified key objectives including:

• Dissemination and sharing of eLearning good practice within and across all faculties.
• Develop examples of good practice.
• Promote both the cost effective gains and the pedagogic benefits of eLearning.
• Advise the Education Committee and the eLearning Board on the development and monitoring of the university eLearning strategy.
• To support elements of the education and eLearning strategies
• Assist departments/Faculties to develop eLearning strategies matched to their teaching and learning objectives.
• Support training activities provided by ESU
• Support eLearning "champions" within Faculties/Departments
• Seek funding for eLearning from both within the University of Bristol and externally e.g. HE Academy Subject Centres, HEFCE etc.