eLearning Hosted Loan Servers

Part of the mission of the University is to find new and initiative ways to deliver high quality learning and teaching. In a number of Schools there are individuals who are pushing forward the boundaries in E-learning and need the ability to test out new ideas and technologies in a structured way.  Such ventures require technical resources such as host servers which until now have been sourced and supported in an ad hoc manner.

In order to track and support such initiatives the e-learning implementation group will monitor developments and where possible identify common themes for discussion at future implementation/strategic meetings across the institution as required.  All requests for e-learning development servers will be submitted to the e-learning Implementation Group with a brief description of the objectives of the trial and the area being investigated.  Applications will then be reviewed by the eLearning Implementation Group and applicants will usually be expected to attend a meeting of this group to answer questions about their proposal.  

Applicants should be aware that the eLearning Implementation Group meets three times each year, so proposals need to be made well in advance of any intended use.  For example, an application should be made in April to allow time for approval, installation, testing and use by October.

A key concern that should be addressed by applicants is what happens if the hosted server becomes unavailable and the consequent impact on the student learning experience. High-stakes applications that involve credit-bearing work must demonstrate that a robust alternative is available, such as submission of video assignments on a CD rather than online via the pilot online system.

The downloadable eLearning Hosted Loan Servers document contains the following key elements:

  • Application Form (includes Technical Requirements)
  • A Service Definition
  • Terms and Conditions

Please download the eLearning Hosted Loan Servers document (see link opposite), read the Service Definitions and Terms & Conditions sections then complete the Application Form section.  Email the completed document to serviceline@soton.ac.uk with the subject ‘Application for eLearning Hosted Loan Server’ and the name of the new service e.g.

‘Application for eLearning Hosted Loan Server – Maple TA’

If approved, the hosted service will be made available according to the Service Definition under the stated Terms and Conditions.