EMM v2.3 S6

'''S6. Teaching staff are provided with technical support in using digital information created by students'''

Background
E–learning involves a dynamic and complex information and communications environment that necessitates technical support for teaching staff to ensure students are able make best use of facilities and resources. The creation and use of electronic information resources by students is particularly challenging as Internet sources, in particular, are simultaneously easier to search and access while also generally being less reliable. The handling and storage of documents created by students also presents challenges ranging from the technical ones of format, through concerns arising from viruses. Backup and authorised access to student work also needs careful attention.

Evidence of capability in this process is facilities and support for handling digital materials produced by students during e-learning activities and as part of assessment. Examples include systems for electronic review and feedback of submitted materials as well as plagiarism detection, electronic portfolios and content management systems. Staff should receive documentation, training, and templates and other materials to use with students helping with the integration of these tools into courses. Policy and guidelines should require and support staff working with electronic materials efficiently and effectively as well as addressing issues of reliability, robustness, access and authentication. Student attainment of digital information skills should be part of the overall learning objectives of programmes, in line with their acquisition of research, traditional literacy skills and discipline knowledge.

Related Guidelines and Standards
This process is informed by: Quality On the Line: Benchmarks for success in internet-based distance education (Merisotis, J. P., & Phipps, R. A., 2000) faculty support benchmark set; Queensland University of Technology teaching capabilities framework (2004/2005) and; Balancing quality and access: Principles of good practice for electronically offered academic degree and certificate programs (Western Cooperative for Educational Telecommunications, 2003).