Research Grants Awarded in 2004

The Eduserv Research Fellowships and Research Grants Programme for 2003/2004 offered funding for projects in the areas of cognitive science, computer science and educational research. We were particularly interested in research concerning the use and management of online digital resources and the evaluation of e-learning. Four applicants were awarded funding for the following projects:-

How compelling is the evidence for the effectiveness of e-learning in the post-16 sector? A systematic review

Researcher: Julie Coultas, Eduserv Research Fellow at the University of Sussex

The aim of this project was to assist institutions with future investment decisions concerning e-learning technology and infrastructure. The project used expert seminars to gather information and to communicate directly with interested parties.

The project has now ended.

Web: www.reveel.sussex.ac.uk includes a copy of the review [PDF] and associated materials (including an Endnote file of the review bibliography)

Digital technology: learning and 'game formats': Computer games, motivation, and gender in educational contexts

Researcher: Diane Carr, Eduserv Research Fellow at the Institute of Education, London

Diane's research aims to investigate the actual and potential benefits of computer game formats in educational settings.

Web: www.childrenyouthandmediacentre.co.uk provides further background information as well as details of forthcoming conferences and events with which Diane is involved.

Collaborative eLearning

Researcher: Raquel Morales, Eduserv Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge

Raquel's project investigates the collaborative development of reusable learning objects (RLOs). Her work builds on earlier progress made in this area by UCeL (Universities' Collaboration in eLearning), based at Cambridge. UCeL's multi-institutional approach contributes to its HE-wide perspective.

Web: www.ucel.ac.uk includes information about GLOs (generative learning objects), one of Raquel's areas of interest.

Multi-modal interfaces for Internet access

Researcher: Graham McAllister, Eduserv Research Project at Queen's University Belfast.

Graham and his colleague Wai Yu are developing ways for visually impaired individuals to interact better with the internet. The research focuses on touch and audio methods to increase accessibility, paying particular attention to navigational issues.

Web: www.web4blind.org