The IT Light Shines for the Future Delivery of Higher Education

This paper outlines a research project undertaken in 2005, which aimed to explore a medium term future (5-10 years) around the use of potential learning tools and methodologies in higher education and the effects that these tools may have on student learning and educational institutions. Technology and globalisation have changed the way education practitioners design and deliver learning programmes. Traditionally formal education has occupied the first 20 years or so of someone’s life, following with entering the workforce where they developed further knowledge and skills, rather than going back to formal training (Tait & Mills 1999). However, increased access to technology means many people who would have traditionally completed their education in one block in a face-to-face learning mode, have now become lifelong learners with education being combined with the use of technology (Morrison & Oblinger 2002). Many technologies used in higher education today include the use and application of methods such as e-learning, online learning, web based learning or blended learning, each often in combination with learning management systems. Results of this study indicated that the most preferred type of tools that may be used over the next 5-10 years include learning management systems, online discussion forums, collaborative learning, on-line assessment and increased use of media rich content