Demand-led e-learning and the elusive total solution

Demand-led learning offers resources to learners when they want them; total solution learning takes the learner from induction to final accreditation through a seamless process. The University of Southampton attempted to deliver basic information technology skills through the support of these processes. Steps in the seamless process were designed, developed and implemented. Face-to-face intervention was eliminated, apart from initial learner induction and online-test invigilation. Feedback loops were planned so that success (eg, in completing the accreditation) might encourage further success through collaborative and competitive peer learning. Critical dependency issues arose whilst implementing the solution. When learning delivery was disrupted by systems failure, the indirect effects on learner motivation and resourcefulness proved as damaging as system breaks themselves. This made the institutionalisation of the learning elusive, but key areas have been identified for further investigation.