Best Practices for e-Learning in On-Campus and Distance Education – A Case Study of Karlstad University

Abstract

For the last decades e-learning has enabled new modes of learning and teaching in higher education. However, there seem to be relatively few case studies comparing and analysing how e-learning could be applied in different teaching modes. The main purpose of this paper is therefore to study how e-learning may be used in on-campus and distance educations respectively, and hybrids of these, and what the advantages and disadvantages of different teaching modes are. A case study of the Information Systems department at Karlstad University indicates that e-learning may be successfully applied in both on- campus and distance education and it may also be used to create flexible or blended learning. However, some caution is necessary to avoid creating information overload among on-campus students or to reduce the highly appreciated flexibility in time and space for distance students.