Using Virtual Learning Environments: Lecturers' Conceptions of Teaching and the Move to Student-Centred Learning

This paper reports on doctoral research investigating whether Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) are being used to facilitate student-centred learning in UK Higher Education (HE). The focus is on lecturers (HE teachers) teaching in a face-to-face context. It is claimed that the use of Web or Internet-based technology can facilitate the creation of a student-centred learning environment [1] and the adoption of a student-centred method of teaching [2]. It is argued that student-centred learning and learning environments designed with reference to constructivist theories of learning will produce in students the critical and cognitive skills that Higher Education aims to develop [3], [4], [5]. However, there are barriers that prevent the integration of technology into teaching [6] and elements in the teaching environment [7] that affect whether a studentcentred approach to teaching is adopted. The conception of teaching held by the lecturer [8] is one such element.