If diversity is a problem could e-learning be part of the solution? A case study

Diversity of students enrolling on Computing degrees is becoming increasingly important in higher education with the number of mature students noticeably increasing and the expectations for learning and teaching gradually changing. This year, the UK government has issued two policy documents; the first will influence the make-up of the student body in the future, the second is pushing for a unified e-learning strategy within all education sectors which is driven by user needs and not by the technologies. This paper presents a study of two focus groups in a Computing department in a UK university, and discusses the needs of two diverse student groups, traditional and mature students. It is argued that if e-learning is to be driven by the needs of the users, then diversity should be a driving force behind the use of e-learning technology. Further, we suggest that participatory design would be extremely beneficial in developing effective e-learning.