Blackboard

Online learning and teaching

The process of development for any module involves 3 stages:

1. Setting the module aims and learning outcomes 
2. Identifying the teaching and learning methods which will best achieve those learning outcomes; and 
3. Selecting appropriate assessment methods to ensure that students can demonstrate attainment of the learning outcomes.

Before starting to develop a Blackboard course site, it is important to consider how using online learning and teaching methods within a VLE will facilitate students' learning and attainment of the module learning outcomes. Online methods are not inherently better than traditional ones but they offer the potential for different types of learning experiences that may be more effective at achieving certain outcomes or meeting the needs of specific students, such as those located at a distance. Improved learning outcomes occur because appropriate online teaching and learning methods are used, and not because of the online nature of the learning environment per se.

Some potential benefits of online learning and teaching methods include:

• Students can structure and pace their own learning to fit with their personal circumstances and preferred learning styles;
• Materials can be presented in different formats (e.g. multimedia, hypermedia) enabling students to test and reinforce their learning;
• New opportunities for collaborative learning and learner-learner interaction, particularly for off-campus-based students;
• Direct access to supporting materials such as electronic journals and study guidance resources; and
• Assessment and instant feedback on learning, particularly through objective tests.