摘要：In line with departments in many other universities, the IT Institute (ITI) has experienced an increase in student numbers which has not been matched by a commensurate increase in funding or staff numbers. Staff to student ratios have increased to the point where it has become impractical for small group tutorials to take place. This position has affected job satisfaction and caused increasing doubts over the effectiveness of large group lectures for student learning. Furthermore, it has been recognized that over the last ten years the makeup of the student population has radically changed, leading to a larger proportion of 'nontraditional' students such as mature students with family responsibilities. Related to this, many students are now in part-time or even full-time employment. It is recognized that both these groups require greater flexibility in the time and place of their learning.DOI:10.1080/0968776980060306
