Abstract:

Nowadays the Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) are widely used as an Information and Communication Tool (ICTs) for supporting the virtual, blended and face-to-face teaching and learning process. Therefore, the characterization of the VLE use performed by the students, might be a good strategy in order to evaluate the impact of this technology on Higher Education. The University of Murcia has developed its own VLE, named Services of the Open University of Murcia (SUMA), while others Universities have chosen open-software virtual campus, like Sakai or Moodle. On the other hand others have preferred proprietary campus, like Blackboard. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of the tools provided by SUMA in the field of the Faculty of Veterinary (University of Murcia). To carry out this research a survey was conducted among the students of the Veterinary degree, during the academic year 2009/2010. A sample a sample of 177 surveys was obtained. Data analysis was performed using several statistical tests. The tools Notice Board and Content Delivery System are the most used, while Chats and Forums are the less.

Keywords:

Virtual Learning Environments, Information and Communication Technologies, Higher Education.