Issue Analysis:
In summary, the processes involved in catering to the needs of extra-mural language students were recognized by the school as somewhat inadequate from a pedagogical point of view - it was often disruptive to the learning experience rather than helpful due to the turn around time in getting media back and forth from student to teacher - plus - there were those serious limitations on student interaction with each other. Then there was the cost of time and money.
Additionally, all of the audio based learning was occurring outside of the WebCT Learning Management System which would normally serve as the hub of the distance learning experience. With a somewhat fragmented learning experience to deal with, many students were reluctant to use WebCT at all.
In addition to student issues was that of staff communication. The School is spread across 2 different campuses and communication between staff on different campuses has always been a challenge. A dependency on costly telephone calls had become an issue
Finally, there is the issue of competition among education providers. This School did not want to take for granted Massey's place as New Zealand's pre-eminent provider of distance learning, including eLearning experiences. They are conscious that there are some other providers that have come in more recently, and although the University has a good foundation to build on, maintaining a recognition from the wider community as a leader called for innovation and adoption of new tools and processes.
