Online Learning and Teaching in Higher Education

• What are the links between theory and practice in the area of online learning in higher education?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the online approach?
• How can online learning be used to enhance the student experience?

This book provides the first critical evaluation of theory and practice in online learning and teaching in higher education. It also provides a critique of online learning for all those working in a higher education setting. It examines the online approach in the context of the internet age and global higher education, examining changes in distance learning as well as how online learning is affecting mainstream mass higher education. Practical examples throughout the book allow the reader to:

• Understand quality issues with regard to online learning
• Design appropriate courses
• Create stimulating online learning environments
• Transform learning methods
• Adapt and develop strategies to enhance online teaching practice

Online Learning and Teaching in Higher Education is key reading for lecturers, managers and policy makers in the higher education sector.

Shirley Bach
Is Head of division of graduate studies in the Institute of Nursing and Midwifery at the University of Brighton. Her academic studies have focused on psychology applied to health She has extensive teaching experience in HE and has explored the potential of online learning since the mid 1990s.

Philip Haynes
From 2000-2002 he was seconded to the Learning Technology Support Unit, University of Brighton. Since 2002 he has worked in various school management roles. His previous publications include Managing Complexity in the Public Services and he has contributed to a number of journals, including Active Learning in Higher Education.

Jennifer Lewis Smith
Is head of rehabilitation and health science within the Institute of health and community studies at Bournemouth University She has a strongly established background as a clinical practitioner and educator in occupational therapy prior to leading project developments in online learning from the mid 1990s and undertaking practice based research in this area.