Technical and pedagogical comparative study of e-learning - platforms for open and distance learning

Full Text, AbstractThe aim of this development project report is to be a guideline for educational institution who wants to create an E-learning based environment, to develop pedagogy on the net, to accelerate the development of web-based courses or develop a resources centre for cooperative work with other institutions. The necessity of implementing E-learning platforms is seen as a first step towards these previous objectives. Being a pre study for a long-term project, this report start by addressing the needs and asking key questions before any move is made. The structure of this report uses Khan's orthogonal framework. It contains a detailed description of its dimensions such as institutional, pedagogical, ethical and technical. The pedagogical dimension not only describe the classical approaches such the constructivism, behaviourism and their important value in the teaching of ICT but focuses on the trendy blended learning. This new approach is analysed under various point like the dimension of the blend, the benefits and its challenges. The criteria's for an appropriate platform are discussed and analysed under two major points: technically and pedagogically. Different views are taken in consideration such as the users (teachers, students) and administrators. Two platforms (BSCW and R5) are described. Several of their properties are analysed, mainly the compatibility with actual servers, the various cost of such a project, the requirement for administrating and tutoring the users. Full descriptions of criteria's of choice are given in the appendix. This report conclusion consists in an answer to the questionsraised before starting the project and a description of the various phases to follow when developing an Elearning environment in an education institution