Collaborating on Collaboration

Michael Shimmins , Flexible Learning and Teaching Program, Information Technology Services, Monash University, Melbourne Victoria. Email: Michael.Shimmins@its.monash.edu.au

Kelsey van Haaster , Project Development Coordinator, Flexible Learning and Teaching Program, Information Technology Services, Monash University, Melbourne Victoria. Email: Kelsey.vanHaaster@its.monash.edu.au

Keywords

WebCT Vista, Collaborative Tools, Wiki, Educational Research, E-Learning.

Abstract

Abstract

In recent years Learning Management Systems (LMS) have become an increasingly popular method of delivering learning materials to students across a range of educational institutions. Monash University Studies On line (MUSO) is the result of a university project to roll out an enterprise LMS based on the commercial WebCT Vista product. MUSO is in its fnal year as a project and is entering its second year of delivery as a fully supported production service.

The delivery of an enterprise scale LMS is an inherently complex task, consequently during the frst year of the MUSO production service, the focus has been on delivering a stable and highly available service and developing an appropriate governance model. The focus for 2006 is to deliver a product and service which enhances the staff and student experience in terms of both teaching and learning and administration. This project will focus on the development and delivery of a an enhacement to the service in the form of collaborative workspace. This paper introduces the rationale and approach to the project which will be reported more fully at a later date.