Encouraging blended learning and ICT use at Universitat de València to improve the learning process with the .LRN platform: best practices and tools

Abstract

The Universitat de València, one of the largest, oldest and most varied in Spain, concerned about the efficiency of the learning processes in the context of the convergence process towards the Higher Education European Space, has conducted educative innovation experiences in several degrees, diversifying learning activities. Interested in enhancing traditional classroom learning by use of ICT (with progressive blended learning introduction) has established a learning management system to enhance the learning and communication processes for the whole university. The overall goal was to build skills in ICT use in order to improve learning process quality and student participation. This paper describes the starting point, the selection and implementation of an Open Source Learning Management System for the whole university, and the achievements on ICT use and expansion. Evaluation results of 2-years current campuswide use of LMS "Aula Virtual", conclusions and future work are also included.