Learn Foundations set about to improve the usability and consistency of our biggest Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Learn. This page explains the approach and benefits for both staff and students: What is Learn Foundations? The Learn Foundations Approach is a way of using the Learn VLE which provides the best possible user experience of the platform through consistency, accessibility and inclusivity. We encourage all staff using Learn as part of their course delivery to be aware of this approach and reference the advice and guidance which underpin this approach as they are creating courses. This ensures that students get the best possible learning experience. Why is a consistent approach important? With Learn being used in the day-to-day learning and teaching of thousands of members of the University of Edinburgh community, feedback from users indicated that there were vast differences in how it was being used between different Schools and Deaneries. By keeping a degree of consistency across courses, the platform is easier to navigate, particularly for students who are enrolled on multiple courses. Research identified that different terminology was previously being used across the different Schools and Deaneries, inconsistent essential information was being included across courses and where this information was located within courses varied. This inconsistency created barriers to both learners and instructors, so by introducing some constancy at a foundational level, the platform has become more accessible and user friendly leading to a more inclusive learning environment. Who developed this approach? The Learn Foundations Approach is the outcome of a three-year project that brought together over 400 colleagues and 5000 students from across the University to co-design an approach which puts user experience at the core of learning and teaching within the VLE. Read more about the User Research that supported the deliver and decision making process of the Learn Foundations. What isn’t included in the Learn Foundation approach? Whilst the approach certainly encourages aspects of courses to be consistent, Learn Foundations does not template any part of teaching, nor prescribe the content of courses, delivery methods or course materials. How can I find out more and improve my course provides a great student experience? Visit the Learn Foundations Approach Resources page. Here you will find the training, guides and checklists you need to audit your course and identify what improvements are possible. What are the benefits of this approach? A better student experience in the online teaching and learning space by introducing more consistency; An institution-wide approach to basic course structure, and course terminology to alleviate needless confusion caused by basic inconsistencies; The flexibility to structure good teaching within courses; More focus on teaching elements without having to think about where to put links and resources that are a basic requirement. This article was published on 2024-10-08
