Strategic approaches to digital libraries and virtual learning environments (VLEs)

Purpose – Argues that the successful introduction of digital libraries in the 1990s has important lessons for the successful implementation of e-learning strategies. Design/methodology/approach – An opinion piece based on current and recent trends in digital library and e-learning development. Findings – Pragmatic information strategies have important parallels with potentially effective strategies for introducing VLEs. Information strategies were marketed as tools for pursuing more efficient ways of conducting existing forms of research and teaching. Initially, e-learning platforms may well be best marketed as tools for facilitating existing forms of teaching carried out with transmission-based pedagogies. Research limitations/implications – An expression of belief about what may prove to be likely methods for implementing virtual teaching and learning tools. Offers potential for exploration via more in-depth research. Practical implications – Offers a concrete strategy for successfully implementing in everyday academic teaching practice, and bases this firmly in the lessons to be learned from practice in library and information management. Originality/value – The suggestion that by taking a pragmatic approach to the introduction of virtual teaching and learning tools, one based on the acceptability of existing pedagogic practice, many of the more “blue skies” ambitions of e-learning may be eventually achieved, thereby encouraging deep-seated and long-lasting changes in educational delivery.