Enhancing learning through technology - Challenges and responses

This opening chapter provides an overview of the challenges currently facing educational institutions, particularly universities, with respect to both learners and the array of new and emerging technologies confronting tertiary educators. In addressing these challenges, the perspective taken is an institutional one, illustrating how institutions can act strategically to both encourage innovation and, at the same time, ensure that the technological underpinnings of the learning and teaching environment are stable and supportive. A particular example is used, showing how the development of strategic planning and documentation can guide the three key aspects of governance, policy and process with respect to the use of educational technology.