What is needed for global e-learning in higher education?

This chapter examines the nature of emergent trends in methods being used to develop and deliver e-learning programmes by higher educational institutions for a global market. As a starting point global e-learning programmes that have been involved in large scale failure for economic reasons are analysed and the reasons behind their lack of success discussed. An account of the design approaches that are currently helping produce more flexible online courses and ways in which these can be shared among practitioners is provided in order to throw light on the advantages and disadvantages of these approaches. The model used by the Open University in the United Kingdom for distance education in the global arena is also considered in some detail particularly in relation to the insights it offers about dealing with cultural bias in global e-learning programmes. Comparison of approaches to providing online courses that draw on learning objects, learning design, and learning patterns is made and the chapter concludes with reflections on lessons learned and advice that could be offered to those considering the provision of online courses for a global audience