Strengthening research and innovati

Strengthening research and innovation

The central role of research and development cannot be overemphasised. Research is needed to develop new instructional design and course material, teacher training programmes, student assessment approaches and quality systems, and DL infrastructures. To explore the potential of mobile learning, game based learning, remote laboratories and the adoption of IT supported business processes in universities are important issues that will shape the future of network based learning. Another area of research that is especially important for Portugal is on different cultural contexts in using and implementing eLearning. Here the experience with Portuguese-speaking countries can be a valuable asset.
Some progress has been made in the last few years in initiating DL research. The UAb has allocated a specific team to this end, and University of Porto, New University of Lisbon (Nova) and I.P. Leiria also have units for DL research. Despite this, research in the field of DL in Portugal is still far from the levels of other European countries. Most research activities have taken place in the framework of European funding schemes. DL or e-learning is not considered proper research field and there is no specific funded research in this area.
We believe that the Portuguese HEIs should collaborate together to set up a centre dedicated to promote DL research and its use in distance learning programme development and delivery. Several Universities that have significant developmental activity in DL (i.e.: Porto, Nova) and the UAb can work together to establish such a centre, which should be open to other interested participants.