Dissemination

Dissemination can be defined as the opening of a subject to widespread discussion and debate, to broadcast or disperse, or the act of diffusing knowledge. This can take many forms from face to face or virtual events, through online or printed resources, or activities to engage specific stakeholder groups. Aspects include:

• Workshops, online support
• Online content, case studies, reference material
• Project websites, programme websites, support sites
• Conferences, newsletters/articles/flyers
• Accreditation possibilities, frameworks, future linking

Example: Case Studies

Case Studies in e-Learning Practice

Background

Case studies illustrating examples of innovative practice in relation to e-learning in the post-16 and HE community were produced in the form of a written report with supporting video clips as part of the JISC e-Learning Pedagogy programme. Activities included site visits, interviews, and analysis, leading to documented case studies.

Case Studies

The key aims of the case studies were the analysis and evaluation of the learning context against established educational frameworks and models and the extraction of key practical lessons and presentation as transferable recommendations where appropriate.

Areas covered included:

• Context - to gather information about learners, curriculum and environment. Teachers were asked to identify problems or issues that were a priority when choosing a particular approach.
• Learning activity or approach - why e-learning was adopted and, once the decision was made, why a particular approach was taken.
• Outcomes for learners and their evaluation - the specific planned outcomes such as skills, knowledge, measuring success, relationship with other courses, experience, etc. It also discussed the evaluation of learners' outcomes such as tutor observation and reflection, and benefits for learners.
• Some studies demonstrated clear links to existing educational practice in the design and development of e-learning with particular thought being given to pedagogic issues. However a number focused on and demonstrated the benefits of using e-learning to solve particular problems providing courses or improving the learning experience. The template proved useful in drawing out relevant information regardless of the approach being taken in providing e-learning.