Collaboration in E-learning: A study using the flexible E-learning framework

Abstract

E-Learning remains a new frontier for many faculty. When compared to the traditional classroom, E-Learning requires the talents of many team members from a variety of departments as well as the use of different teaching and learning strategies. Pedagogy as well as team configurations must change when moving to the online environment. As a result, collaboration is a key component in creating quality E-Learning. This article describes the results of a faculty survey based on the Flexible Framework for E-Learning. The authors developed a survey to capture faculty perceptions of E-Learning dimensions. Using a descriptive design, the authors surveyed participating faculty (N = 45) from several Midwestern campuses during a year-long faculty development program on E-Learning. Items related to the E-Learning dimension being discussed during the monthly videoconference were distributed prior to the monthly video sessions to assess faculty understanding of the E-Learning dimensions. The project was designed to foster a deeper understanding of E-Learning dimensions and of collaborative roles and activities necessary for E-Learning.