To provide students with opportunities to communicate and collaborate online in (virtual) teams. To provide students with opportunities to investigate the potential of new learning and communication technologies. To equip students with vital transferable skills, including IT skills, communication, and team-working skills.

In this module, students learn about and use learning and communication technologies, including: learning management systems (such as Sakai and Moodle); teleconferencing tools (such as Skype); open-source tools for e-learning development; new learning technology software; and tools for developing collaborative e-learning environments (such as WIKIs, discussion forums, and blogs). Students apply their theoretical understanding of learning technologies and gain hands-on experience with several tools, in a controlled lab environment. Through using new technologies in controlled settings, students learn to incorporate these technologies into their own project work, and to vary the online training techniques they use both on the MA in Technical Communication and E-learning programme and in the workplace following graduation. Students share their experiences of using technologies with classmates and faculty in online discussions and presentations. The module is assessed continuously through participation in class and online discussions, presentations, and use of tools. There is no end-of-semester examination.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Compare and contrast learning management systems for online programme delivery. Describe innovations in tele/videoconferencing, pod-casting, and collaborative online learning. Evaluate their learning, with the aid of an online reflective blog. Justify when and why certain learning and communicate technologies should/ should not be used. Evaluate educational software. Create podcasts. Investigate new learning technologies. Present findings in oral and written form. Participate in an online collaborative projects.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Evaluate their learning, with the aid of an online reflective blog. Participate in online collaborative projects.

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This module is taught online and face-to-face (in a lab setting). Lab sessions are supplemented with resources, learning objects and online discussions offering peer and tutor support through the University VLE. The module responds to graduate attributes by encouraging creativity and fostering an autonomous, proactive and responsible approach to course evaluation and tools selection. It also promotes collaboration.