Dunkwu, Jude; (2023) Analysis of the implementation of published online learning and teaching strategies in UK universities: a case study of five universities. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

During its history the university landscape has evolved as it passed through different stages and models. Online learning and teaching is a recent phenomenon in that history. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, universities adopted and accepted online learning to varying degrees. Implementation of online learning had been achieved through various strategies, such as unbundling, leveraging technology, provision of appropriate support to learners, among other approaches. However, the pandemic has had an accelerating effect on implementation since online learning was extensively adopted in order to sustain learning and teaching following the social distancing that was mandated. Existing research has focused on online learning and teaching in the areas of pedagogy and technology, while a management perspective has been neglected. This research aimed to fill this gap. An investigation of multiple case studies from UK universities was undertaken to capture a holistic and nuanced account of the implementation strategies adopted across the HE sector. In addition, comparing each case against the others provide a comparative perspective. The research found the core competencies in online learning and teaching in the UK universities studied included: programme design and materials development, development and aggregation of materials and capabilities for online learning and teaching, digitisation of services as well as online personal tutoring and pastoral care. In addition, the thesis argues that UK universities’ varied implementation strategies relate to their core competencies, organisational structures and technologies as well as competition and co-operation among the universities. Furthermore, the thesis argues that universities’ choice of implementation strategy should respond to the university mission, as articulated in mission statements. These concepts are useful for guiding universities’ development of online learning and teaching strategies. Finally, a decision tree is developed to aid organisations in making choices in relation to the development of online learning and teaching.

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