Government provision of online teaching resources for schools has had little impact on innovation in the classroom, according to a report.

A study by the Content Advisory Board to the Department for Education and Skills found that the introduction of e-Learning Credits to enable schools to buy in digital learning materials has yet to drive forward innovation in the market.

In 2003 the DfES launched Curriculum Online to give teachers easy access to digital teaching resources. It also provided the e-learning credits as ring-fenced funds to enable them to buy in these resources.

However the report by CAB found that although ELCs have had a positive impact on raising awareness and use of digital content in the classroom, they have not yet led to a “step change” in the level of innovation embodied by digital materials used in the classroom.

It said: “While the eLC scheme has had an impact on the size of the market, it has had less influence – if any – on the kinds of products and services available. A general funding initiative like eLCs is unlikely by itself to result in the filling of gaps [in the market], if the gaps are where investment is not regarded as commercially viable.”

The report recommended an enhancement of registration, sales returns and compliance processes with increased clarity on the guidance on the use of eLCs, along with the need for strategic purchasing plans in order for the government to maximise the value of its investment.

CAB chair Owen Lynch said: “The provision of quality and innovative digital learning resources from the public and private sector are essential to our students’ educational opportunities. The recommendations in the report set out to ensure that the present fundamental market issues are resolved.”

This entry was posted by Taman Siswa on Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 6:01 pm and is filed under Online Education. Tags: Content Advisory Board, Department for Education and Skills, e-learning, Education News, online teaching resources, Owen Lynch, Student, Study, . You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.