VLE Standards project now in progress

A new project is underway to review the current use of the University’s main virtual learning environment, Blackboard Learn, and support the adoption of a standard course presentation across the institution, as outlined in proposals to the Senate Learning & Teaching Committee on 20th September 2017. Consultations in 2016-17 with staff and students by the Learn Service team and the commissioned Headscape review in 2016 indicate that inconsistencies across all our internal and external systems cause frustration and dissatisfaction for students.

Objectives  This project aims to improve the digital experience for all students and users of the VLE by evaluating current inconsistencies in the way that courses are presented and navigated in Blackboard Learn, and seek to adopt a consistent standard for all programmes of study, including Joint Honours programmes.

Project governance is currently being established including the membership of a Project Board and consultation groups. The consultation will take place over coming months and inform pilots with the aim of rolling out agreed VLE standards and supporting training and support 2018/19. More information is available on the project website.