Ubiquitous technology-does the e-learning environment match student expectations?

As an increasing number of universities globally embrace e.learning technologies with their use of virtual and managed learning environments (VLEs and MLEs) the authors review student expectations about the use of technology in HEIs. The authors' own institution was one of the first to adopt a university wide MLE in 2001, with on-line access to all staff and students via a personalised portal and it has embraced the use of technology to support a 'blended learning' approach to Higher Education. The authors describe the process and the results from a major survey of new undergraduate and post graduate students at their UK University carried out since October 2005. They consider whether new students are now so familiar with technology to the point that it has become 'ubiquitous' and thus an inseparable part of their daily life, for study and leisure. Students were asked about the frequency of use of common technologies such as email, internet use and mobile phone texting. This was predictably high across all age groups. Their anticipation of regularly using appropriate technology in their studies was also high. However in contrast they largely stated a preference for a more traditional face to face approach within the teaching environment, in spite of the easy access to an on-line MLE. The authors discuss the results of the survey and some of the questions which this apparent dichotomy raises for those who design and implement e. learning in the wider HE context.