Abstract:

This paper sets out to update a method of understanding the domain in question. It is the outcome of work by a Working Group on Distance 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 in the Institute of Education, University of Minho (IE-UM) in order to be better able to 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 with respect to what leads lecturers to use or not use an e-learning 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 and e-learning'. This instrument was devised from scratch by researchers in the Working Group. Seventy lecturers (from a total of 107) 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.
Finally, the members of the group hope to help foster an intention to turn the Institute of Education into an institution recognised internally and externally as one that has enhanced potential for intervention in the domain of distance and e-learning.

Keywords:

Distance education, e-learning, teaching practices.