a. Implementing
the ILT/e-learning strategy and action plan
Forming a steering group,
made up of representatives from all aspects of the organisation, to manage
the ILT strategy and its implementation is recommended. The organisation should
ensure that the strategy and action plan are disseminated across the organisation,
that objectives and timescales are clear and realistic, that there are small
manageable steps and achievable milestones, that responsibilities are mapped
and that teams/individuals have a full understanding of their roles. Regular
meetings, following the results of monitoring and reviewing implementation,
should ensure that objectives, timescales and responsibilities are reflected
upon and if necessary changed. Many organisations choose to embed their ILT
action plan in the organisation's Quality Improvement Plan.
b. Monitoring
and reviewing implementation
This links closely with
1f: Evaluation of the impact and effectiveness of the ILT/e-learning
strategy. Consider how you involve the
whole organisation; staff, governors, learners, employers and other stake
holders in monitoring and reviewing implementation. It is possible following
an evaluation of the use of ILT, as described in 1f, and progress against the
ILT strategy that the ILT strategy and objectives remain appropriate to the
organisation's vision, but that it is the method of implementation and
timescales that require review. You may have to ask the question "what are
the barriers and enablers to implementation?"
c. Commitment throughout organisation to the
development of ILT/e-learning
Get
buy in from senior management and agreement for policy to be embedded into
the strategy. Ensure that all staff are aware of the ILT strategy and action
plan. Communicate the benefits of the strategy and the opportunities that the
use of technology can bring, perhaps through workshops. Make staff aware of
how the organisation's objectives will impact on policy and practice. Identify ILT champions to enthuse and build
the confidence of others. Recognise achievements and celebrate them.
d. Partnerships
Consider
forming partnerships to share e-learning resources, virtual learning
environments and communication tools. Get e-learning/ILT on to provider
network agendas and involve a range of providers in ILT development. Involve
any sub-contractors in ILT strategic development. Engage with the regional
LSC and any other strategic partners.
e. Funding
and sustainability
Define
the budget required to meet the objectives of the ILT strategy over the next
three years, with an emphasis on prioritising expenditure over the first
year. Analyse the intended investment required and the cost benefit, as many
examples of the use of technology can bring long term cost benefits. Identify
any existing money available and consider the sustainability of this.
Identify national and local sources of funding. Consider forming a
partnership or consortium with other providers to bid for funding for a
larger scale project.