Leeds Learning Network

Products & Services: Virtual Learning Platforms

What is a Virtual Learning Platform?

There is a little confusion surrounding the definition and the actual application of a Virtual Learning Platform (VLP) – also known as a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) or Managed Learning Environment (MLE). Briefly, it is a software tool that allows tutors and learners to interact in an integrated, on-line environment.

To put minds at rest, it is not going to take over the role of the teacher in school. The on-line learning can combine with traditional face to face teaching or even if a course is fully taught on line, the teacher will still play a key role in the subject. Students will access material on the VLP but that material will have been supplied by the teacher; courses are designed by the teacher much in the same way teachers now choose textbooks, handouts, design schemes of work and lesson plans.

What will the VLP do?

The principal components of a VLP package include curriculum mapping (breaking curriculum into sections that can be assigned and assessed), student tracking, online support for both teacher and student, electronic communication (e-mail, threaded discussions, chat, Web publishing), and Internet links to outside curriculum resources. Different packages will offer different resources.

What are the key benefits?

Enhanced teaching and learning
Flexible access for students in protected environment
Potential to extend the reach of education beyond the classroom
Greater parental involvement
Collaborate and share resources with other teachers
Parents can monitor their child’s progress more easily
Becta, the Government's lead agency for ICT in education believes: “Although VLE’s are still relatively new to the school’s market, the general impression is that they are likely to have a significant impact on the process of teaching and learning in the future.”

Leeds Learning Network and Virtual Learning Platforms

Through the procurement of the new service Leeds Learning Network will provide a Virtual Learning Platform which our users will be able to opt into. The benefits of having a community shared VLP are endless. Training will be provided for teaching staff.

For further information on Virtual Learning Platforms, please see www.becta.org.uk or ring Vicky Relton, Marketing and Communications Officer at Leeds Learning Network on 0113 3862420.

Further Resources

Information on Learning Platforms and what they means for Leeds Learning Network
ICT Advice for Teachers - What is a Learning Platform?
Video from London Grid for Learning
Shows how one of their schools is using a VLP.