Perspectives on the use and development of a broad range of e‐books in higher education and their use in supporting virtual learning environments

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to examine the problems, tensions, contrasts and complementarities surrounding the use of e‐books in developing learning environments for students in UK higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use four case studies and a questionnaire to highlight developments.

Findings

It was found that users want some features of paper books to be preserved in the electronic medium, while also preferring electronic text to be written in a scannable style.

Originality/value

The authors suggest some recommendations for successful design based on an analysis of all experimental data and suggests that hand‐held devices and web site use in universities is probably secure for at least the next five years.

Citation

McClelland, R.J. and Hawkins, N. (2006), "Perspectives on the use and development of a broad range of e‐books in higher education and their use in supporting virtual learning environments", The Electronic Library, Vol. 24 No. 1, pp. 68-82. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640470610649254