The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Research) has requested that the Division of Teaching and Learning Services (DTLS) lead an immediate review of the WebCT Online Learning Management System (OLMS) following an announcement of a major overhaul of the system made by the software supplier.

CQU has been advised that the overhaul will result in major change to the present system, therefore, the university does not have the option to retain the status quo.

“A significant revision like this by our outside supplier will mean a significant change in the way we do business. So we’re starting a process now to review current and projected CQU requirements for online learning in 2004 and beyond,” explained Phillipa Sturgess, WebCT Coordinator, DTLS.

An OLMS Evaluation Working Group will be established to determine online requirements, evaluate available products and make recommendations to the university’s Planning and Development Committee. The university has used the current online delivery system for four years, according to DTLS.

“The decision on a new system must be an informed one – whether it’s an upgrade of the current software or the sourcing of another supplier who suits our needs better. A decision must be made in March this year so we can start converting courses for 2004,” said Phillipa..

The evaluation process requires input from the teaching community who will be using the new system. A questionnaire has been circulated via email across the university. DTLS requests that a response be made via email by 15 January. Responses will be confidential to the survey administrators.

“We realize that these external factors will have an impact on staff and students which is why we’re working on this right now. It’s vital for our staff and our students that the changeover happens smoothly,” added Phillipa.

WebCT, or Web Course Tools, allow lecturers to simply place content, format automated quizzes and deliver course material electronically. About 9,000 students take up to 200 courses at CQU that have a WebCT component.

It’s expected that the new system will be up and running by autumn term 2004.