Distance learning and e-learning in Portugal: a study of the perceptions, concepts and teaching practices at the Institute of Education – University of Minho

Abstract

This paper aims to update a method of understanding the domain in question. It is the outcome of a research carried out by a Working Group on Distance Education and e-Learning (GT-EADEL), based on the principles and initiatives stated by the executive board of the University of Minho’s Institute of Education. This study was based on the need to identify perceptions, concepts, teaching practices and requirements in distance learning (EaD) and e-learning among lecturers at the Institute of Education, University of Minho (IE-UM) in order to better plan an intervention in awareness-raising and teaching in this field. Despite the specificity of the study in relation to the subjects involved, we believe that some of the aspects tackled, particularly those regarding what leads lecturers to use or not use an elearning platform, may be useful indicators for other institutions committed to stimulating distance and e-learning teaching practices. The data were gathered via an electronic version of the questionnaire 'Perceptions, teaching practices and requirements in the domain of distance education and e-learning'. This instrument was devised from scratch by GT-EADEL researchers. Seventy lecturers (from a total of 115) from the University of Minho’s Institute of Education took part in the study. This paper presents the data collected and the conclusions arising from their analysis in relation to some of the aspects studied. Of particular interest are the reasons given by lecturers for using or not using an e-learning platform, and the pros and cons of such (non) use.