Exploring the Potential of Implementing E-Learning Practices at the UG: A Case for the Adoption and Institutionalisation of Technology-Based Learning and Teaching in Higher Education

The University of Guyana, up to the present time (2014), continues to embrace a traditional learning and teaching approach. All educational practices, to a great degree, are out-dated. Face to face contact is the only mode of instructional delivery. Further to this, the conventional Distance Education, via the print-based correspondence mode, is still the current trend. Such a method only favours but a handful of students. As has been revealed by research, such an approach, even if it might engage students, is still teacher-directed and rejects an emancipative, student-centred approach to learning. E-Learning, however, is being universally accepted as the instructional delivery mode which fosters student engagement and emancipation. Consequently, this study seeks to explore the potential of implementing e-learning practices at the University of Guyana. A case is made for the adoption and institutionalisation of technology-based learning and teaching. The findings illuminate that university students and staff (both academic and administrative) are, by and large, (generally) ready for E-Learning. E-Learning has the potential to revolutionise and diversify pedagogical practices.