Abstract:

The i-Learn Center (i-LeC) (http://i-learn.uitm.edu.my) was established on 1st December 2005 and entrusted to handle the e-learning adaptation in UiTM. The center launched its Learning Management System (LMS) called “i-Learn” portal by exploiting the extensive advantages of the open source technology. The i-Learn portal offers more than just uploading and downloading of notes but more lively and dynamic activities of forum, better information management in organizing notes, announcement, and online assessment thus promoting a blended learning solution of learning strategies, methods, media and delivery mechanisms which supports the learning objectives and maximizes the efficiency of the learning experience. The e-content development project for the i-Learn portal was launched in January 2008. A lecturer from each faculty was appointed as Subject Matter Experts (SME) to develop their paper-based content to web-based version with the help of a professional vendor.

This paper investigates the training of SMEs in developing e-content for online learning. Thirty lecturers were selected across faculties based on the nature of the subjects. The semester-long project started with initial training of 2 days followed by weekly meetings. A professional vendor was appointed to help lecturers develop the technical aspects of their teaching materials. At the end of the project, several issues were uncovered which includes lack of focus among the SMEs, vendor commitment and collaboration between vendor and lecturers. The paper concludes with a discussion on a possible framework for future content development initiatives.

Keywords:

sme, subject matter experts, e-content, content development, e-learning, lms.