JISC

Overview of MLE issues and how JISC can help

What is an MLE?

The term Managed Learning Environment (MLE) refers to the whole range of information systems and processes of a college or university (including its VLE if it has one) that contribute directly, or indirectly, to learning and the management of that learning.

There is sometimes confusion between a VLE and a MLE. The term Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is one possible component of a MLE: it refers to the component(s) within an MLE that provides the “online” interactions of various kinds which can take place between learners and tutors, including online learning. See more information on MLE and VLE and their differences.

Different organisations may have different types of MLEs because they have different educational and business needs. Few colleges and universities currently have fully developed MLE systems in place but many are gradually moving towards that.

How do I get an MLE?

Putting in place a MLE within a College or University encompasses a wide range of issues that involve all sectors of an organisation, and require input and cooperation from a wide range of people. Because an MLE can encompass ALL the processes and systems in an institution that support learning and the learning process, it is not possible to buy a single system that will meet the needs of every college or university. Instead, the college or university needs to consider what it wants to achieve through its MLE and plan the systems and processes to underpin those plans.

There are complicated technical issues implied in MLE implementation, in particular for the linkage between a number of different systems and ensuring that these systems are interoperable; and access issues such as security and authentication. There are also a large number of human, organisational and cultural issues that underpin any substantial change process within an organisation. Finally, there are many complex issues that relate to the learning content that is made available through a MLE, including the description of learning resources (metadata) so that they can be easily identified.

Advice and guidance

A good starting point for an overview of some of the MLE issues is the MLE information pack that is available online and in printed form. This lists 22 issues that are relevant to MLEs and provides a brief overview of some of the key issues. Other publications and reports relevent to MLE development are available.

Exploration and demonstration projects

Many people ask for concrete examples of MLE work so that they can try to learn by examples. JISC funds large development programmes that are enabling organisations to try out MLE technologies for real. Issues that surround MLEs often cross the traditional academic divides of further and higher education, and old and new universities, so all of the programmes may be useful regardless of the sector that you represent.

Events

JISC regularly arranges events to discuss the use of technology to support learning, to share examples of good practice, and to make recommendations to the sector. See all upcoming events.