The OnCreate project was initiated by ten universities with expertise in collaborative work in online-based learning environments and explores the specific challenges of implementing university courses in creative disciplines in such an environment. The first research phase comprises a literature search on creativity and Educ Inf Technol its contextual factors in online collaboration in an educational setting. From this research a first set of possible key challenges and contextual key factors has been selected and applied to categorize the results of interviews and surveys on current good practice in creative online collaboration among experienced online teachers from the partner universities. From the key findings we formulate hypotheses to guide future research towards a framework for creative online collaboration. At the same time, the results can serve as inspiration for the educational practice. Notable observations of the good practice research among the partner universities are that they realise innovative collaboration concepts usually on mashed-up environments of state-of-the-art web services rather than on the omnipresent learning management systems (such as Moodle or Blackboard). Also, they show a paradigm shift from teaching to coaching and promotion of an open peer-review culture among the students.

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Learning is integral in the present dynamic environment characterized by factors, such as intense technological innovation and global economy. Thus, learning is constantly required as, for example, rapid development of technologies is both a push factor in learning requirements and a vehicle to advance the learning process. The global nature of the environment today calls for virtual learning because of convenience, time and cost factors. This research seeks to draw measures to promote virtual learning experience. The research is based on a total virtual learning experience of a master's level information and communication technology for development (ICT4D) course at the University of Tampere in 2016. This course was offered two times and to two sets of student groups. A survey was conducted at the mid-course stage to assess the virtual learning experience and propose the ways to improve learning process. The assessment included how well the virtual environment and pedagogy promoted qualities of learning, these are, active, constructive, collaborative, intentional, contextual, transfer and reflective learning. Excellence in learning should always be promoted even in virtual environment. This research seeks to promote qualities of learning by considering context in terms of assessing the learning environment that is, participants' virtual learning experience, study contents and learning technologies. Context is important in order to map the learning process that suits the learners and study contents. The results of this study include highlight of pedagogical techniques and technological tools that fit the learners' and study content requirements to foster learning in a virtual environment.

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The purpose of this paper is to analyze the effectiveness of innovative technologies and practices adopted to enhance teaching and learning in higher education settings during a crisis e.g. the COVID-19 pandemic in developing countries. We seek to highlight the need for digital and technological transformation in the teaching and learning practices in response to crisis for adaptation to the 'new normal'. Design /MethoDology aPProachUsing a qualitative research approach, data was collected through an online questionnaire and online interviews with lecturers who conducted teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic in developing countries. The countries from where data was collected are Egypt, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia and Botswana. The aim was to highlight transformational processes required for to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. In doing so, we note the adaptable approaches that are useful in times of crisis to promote learning. FinDings, contributions anD iMPlicationsThe results highlight measures adopted to promote remote learning during a crisis, such as, COVID-19. The contributions include a conceptual model for innovative technologies and practices to the rapid shift to remote learning and ensuring qualities of learning. In developing countries' context, making use of existing infrastructure, system and organizations is necessary to promote learning in higher education.

Abstract. This paper highlights the essential matters in adopting technology as an aid to delivering education in higher education institutes in Africa. The key idea of the paper is how to use open source software for teaching and hence for improving interactivity between content, teachers and students i.e. how a wellselected open source software can foster learning processes. The paper also includes a case study in a Mozambican University to reveal a practical example on how technology has been used as an aid to education delivery. Availability of computer infrastructure, computer literacy, competent information technology staff, leadership support and collaboration and sharing culture are some of the identified issues important in using learning management systems (LMS) in African higher education institutes. The paper concludes by noting the need to fit the local environment and circumstances in adopting the use of technology in Africa.