Online research methods module
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This project developed a 10 credit, level M, Online Research Methods module, as part of the MSc Financial Management offered by Bristol Business School, University of the West of England.
Executive Summary
The aim of this project was to develop a generic Online Research Methods module using mainly reused/repurposed learning materials. This module is to be deposited in Jorum an open access repository of resources for the UK educational community. The experiences gained and lessons learnt whilst undertaking this project provide a valuable insight into the development of open access educational resources. Prior to undertaking the project, we felt that reusing/repurposing material would be a relatively straightforward process. However, in reality we encountered a number of unexpected difficulties.
Firstly, we found it difficult to use materials from different disciplines as their context was often inappropriate and embedding large chunks of material would have resulted in an incoherent tutor-learner dialogue. Therefore, we focussed on embedding small snippets of information (including definitions, simple explanations and applets) and providing links to larger information resources. This compromise was successful and we have therefore been left to question the value of actually embedding large amounts of reused/repurposed materials into online learning objects.
Secondly, we found it difficult to engage with materials developed by others due to a lack of ownership and control. We therefore found it a lot easier, and indeed less resource intensive, to develop new rather than adapt existing material. Thirdly, it is evident that there are misconceptions about copyright/intellectual property rights (IPR) that need to be addressed. However, whilst we recognise the need for staff development, there is also some value in maintaining the status quo whereby academics are willing to share resources via informal networks. Our experiences suggest that academics’ goodwill is often withdrawn when a more formal procedure is introduced, thus making it problematic to obtain open access to previously developed learning materials. This dilemma may be partly resolved if when developing new materials, academics are encouraged to establish whether it is their intent to share them and to consider the copyright/IPR implications at this stage.