The recently released Online Learning Task Force report to HEFCE (the English Higher Education Funding Council) makes for interesting reading. Entitled Collaborate to Compete, it sets out a six recommendations which address "how UK higher education ... might maintain and extend its position as a world leader in online learning." [p3].

The Task Force has taken contributions from a wide range of experts, and you may be interested in the results of a student perspective survey undertaken by the NUS which features in the report, as well as a Becta study on online learning in schools and FE.

The report itself can be found at http://www.hefce.ac.uk/pubs/hefce/2011/11_01/

The Task Force was chaired by Dame Lynne Brindly (Chief Executive of the British Library) and a press release can be found on the British Library Web site at http://pressandpolicy.bl.uk/Press-Releases/A-strategic-approach-to-online-learning-is-essential-for-higher-education-that-meets-student-needs-498.aspx 

Reports in the media about Collaborate to Compete include:

• The Chronicle of Higher Education