Above the parapet for e-learning: recognition, reward and celebration

Abstract

From July 2005, the mixed mode University of Leicester in the UK adopted and implemented a new strategy for e-learning. It includes a wide variety of research-led developments to concern all staff involved in teaching and learning. Recognising and rewarding successful teaching is important in motivating individual academics, together with celebration of achievers who have made appropriate and beneficial changes. We found little advice on how to tackle this. It is currently 'below the parapet'. Although there is a tension between raising the profile of e-learning and divorcing it from 'normal' practice, we argue that recognition, reward and celebration are essential in support of new approaches. Against a background of international and UK progress towards improved teaching and learning, the paper discusses approaches to promoting achievement associated with developing pedagogical innovation through e-learning.