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VLE Review


Ellen Buck - Head of Library and Learning Services | Aaron Burrell - Digital Learning Systems Manager

Introduction 

Aims and objectives 

 The project aims were to ensure that the University has a modern, fit for purpose virtual learning environment (VLE) which supports the continued development of the Learning, Teaching and Assessment strategy.  The VLE will become a key tool in the University’s wish to become a ‘Digital First’ institution as it realigns its academic strategy for 21st Century learners. 

The objectives of the project were set out as: 

  1. Align VLE usage with institutional strategies of learning teaching and assessment. 
  2. Receive guidance from a Project Board and Project Working Group. 
  3. Recruit academics and professional services staff to represent departments on the Project Working Group. 
  4. Establish effective communication channels to collate views from all departments. 
  5. Complete a rigorous tender process in the procurement of new VLE software. 

Timelines 

The following timeline sets out the key project dates from the first project board, through to full go live of the new platform. 

March 2017  

First Project Board 

June 2017  

POISE purchasing framework 

September 2017  

Supplier shortlisting 

October 2017  

User testing 

November 2017  

Scoring 

December 2017  

Procurement 

February 2018   

Project implementation 

May 2018 

Staff training 

August 2018  

Soft ‘go live’ 

September 2018  

Full ‘go live’