Commenting on the report by the Online Learning Task Force (OLTF), released today, Andy Westwood, CEO of GuildHE, said:

“This report highlights the opportunities as well as achievements so far in delivering high quality online learning to support a variety of learning communities and other beneficiaries of higher education. GuildHE institutions are long-standing champions of diversity and maximising flexibility to suit students’ circumstances, and the OLTF’s recommendations can help to enhance a range of modes of study in a range of institutions. As the HE landscape changes and the demands of students change with it, it is an excellent time to see recommendations that focus on enhancing student choice, and the importance of providing information on the full range of study options to support that choice.

“The report highlights how, given appropriate investment, collaboration can help the development of flexible and responsive learning resources. GuildHE institutions have a strong record of collaboration to achieve efficient, innovative advancements in learning and knowledge-production, as evidenced by our Consortium for Research Excellence, Support and Training (CREST). This report will support further innovative uses of our changing technology to promote higher level skills training, including learning while working, and to enhance HE’s wider social impact.”

For more information and comment, please contact:

Andy Westwood
Tel: 020 7387 7711
Mobile: 07909 960033
Email: andy.westwood@guildhe.ac.uk

Notes to editors
1. GuildHE is a recognised higher education representative body. Its 32 members are among the most dynamic and fastest-growing institutions in the sector. For a list of GuildHE institutions, please visit: https://www.guildhe.ac.uk/en/members-list/

2. The Consortium for Research Excellence, Support and Training (CREST) exists for institutions that have achieved high levels of research excellence concentrated in smaller communities of research practice. For more information on CREST please visit www.crest.ac.uk