Implementing online learning : the essence of good practice

Despite thousands of courses being transferred wholly or partly to an online mode of delivery over the last decade, many institutions continue to get it badly wrong. This paper draws on the literature to highlight some important aspects of online learning implementation from the perspective of those involved. One common thread throughout is the major importance of good communication between all of the parties involved – academics, developers, administrators, and students. This paper distils the essence of good practice to present 27 guidelines for those involved in the transfer to online learning, in the hope that some of the more prominent pitfalls and disasters can be avoided.