The virtual university: policy, planning and management issues

E-learning and trans-border education poses new and important policy questions and planning challenges

The virtual university is an important example of both the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the provision of higher education and the phenomenon of cross-border education.

Exploring the phenomenon - the background study
In 2001, IIEP launched an exploratory study to identify key policy, planning and management issues associated with the virtual university. The case studies developed represent different institutional models and geographic regions.

Sharing lessons - the web publication and resources
An enhanced web site on virtual universities and e-learning was launched in 2004 with three sections:

• the web publication: 10 case studies with introductory chapters and a review chapter of lessons learned
• Internet forums: including information on upcoming forums and documents from previous ones
• links: an indicative list of virtual universities organized according to country or institutional model.

Supporting interaction - discussion forums and Communities of Interest
The web publication stimulates reflection and debate through a series of forums on key issues.
Almost 400 individuals took part in the first forum: Virtual universities and transnational education: Policy issues - What are they? And whose are they? A report synthesizing the rich discussion is available.
The second forum on Free Open Source Software for e-learning has evolved into an ongoing Community of Interest of 250 participants from 65 countries.
The forum series will continue in 2005 with two important topics:

• Open Educational Resources
• Quality assurance for e-learning

Building capacity and supporting informed decision-making
Sharing information and stimulating discussion will promote informed decision-making in an area that is burdened with high expectations and equally high challenges - making effective use of ICTs to provide greater access to affordable, top quality, higher education.