So, the PLE bit of the JISC's e-learning programme has nearly finished its
reference model work.
I hope this doesn't mean that it's already too late to respond to some of the issues raised, and hopefully, to contribute to the direction it takes. Regular readers of my blog will know I'm not entirely happy with the PLE concept as it seems to be developing -- all the more reason for me to engage.
The Discussion notes from
the JISC/CETIS PLE Event raise four key issues.
To try and focus my discussion, I'll restrict comments to the first three of these.
...There were opposing views on current institutional systems
Ie., we can't agree on whether existing systems enhance or detract from learning. Good. This debate is important, because it focuses on pedagogy and how best to support learner engagement - ground-up, first-principles stuff. May it flourish. But we've been sidetracked! Instead of discussing the benefits and constraints of existing support systems, there appears to be an emerging consensus that VLEs are Just Not Good, Mmmmkaaaaay. Instead, there's a battle going on between those for whom
the PLE is really a VLE in sheep's clothing, versus those who believe the PLE is
its antithesis.
