Abstract:

The concept of paperless classroom and utilizing e-learning technology to complement traditional learning is not a new idea. While some papers carried out an investigation to consider the use and the implication of such a switch on the student achievements, no papers could be found that attempts quantitative cost benefit analysis of such a switch. This paper presents an investigation carried out on four courses at a London university over a period of six years between 2006 and 2012 as they made the switch from paper-based, to paperless delivery, and then to complete Green Courses. A Green Course is a term used to describe a course that goes beyond paperless delivery to include processing of assessments, marking, and feedback in a completely paperless mood. This paper considers what formula educational institutes can use to calculate the cost benefit of implementing a Green Course. The proposed formula used considers the cost benefit for staff, students, and the university. The application of the formula identifies varying levels of costs and benefits for each category. The study showed that the overall savings collectively accumulated by the institution, staff and students can be considerably high, as much as £3million (or $4.5million) a year for an institution like University of East London (United Kingdom). However, our research identified some health and well-being costs that could not be quantified and should be subject of further research in this area.

Keywords:

Green Courses, Paperless, Education, Cost Benefit, Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).