Desire2Learn and Nottingham Trent University Unveil New Data on Electronic Assessment in Higher Education

KITCHENER-WATERLOO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - April 28, 2014) -

Editors Note: There are two photos associated with this press release.

Desire2Learn (D2L), the EdTech company that created the world's first truly integrated learning platform (ILP), and Nottingham Trent University (NTU), a pioneer in blending online and classroom learning, today announced new data revealing the extension and intensification of the electronic assessment process among staff and students.

For several years, Nottingham Trent University and D2L have partnered to improve their online assessment processes using the advanced capabilities provided by the D2L ILP. During that time, Nottingham Trent University has reduced its assessment turnaround times from 24 to 21 days on average, with support from the D2L platform's tools for submission, feedback and assignment management, while significantly increasing the volume of assessments and feedback in the system.

The data shows that there has been a massive growth in online assessment submission following the deployment of this technology for assessment management since 2011. In two years:

• The number of assignments submitted online have more than doubled
• The volume of work online submitted has more than tripled
• The amount of teacher feedback online has increased fivefold

Research into changing student habits in electronic learning is currently underway at NTU and further data will be released throughout 2014. Commenting on the results, Professor Neil Gorman, Vice-Chancellor of Nottingham Trent University, said:

"Our students really value having ready access to the materials and activities in support of their learning and appreciate the ease of use of the D2L platform. It is good to see from this rapid growth that the online assessment process is also popular. Adopting online submission has improved assessment times by two to three days and has helped support Nottingham Trent University's priority objective of providing a first rate student academic experience."

"Today's data shows how the D2L Integrated Learning Platform is transforming the teaching and learning experience. This is a priority for higher education institutions," said John Baker, President and CEO of D2L. "Clearly, staff and students at Nottingham Trent University are starting to use these learning tools enthusiastically. The time and energy saved by a powerful, integrated learning platform translates to better overall outcomes, happier students, and more face-to-face class time."

About Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University is one of the UK's most innovative, modern and popular universities, with a mission to deliver education and research that shapes lives and society.

Its students are well placed to thrive in the job market. More than 100 of its courses are formally accredited and recognised by a professional, statutory or regulatory body and it has close links with more than 6,000 businesses and organisations worldwide, ensuring its courses meet the needs of employers. Consequently, it has an excellent employability rate, with 93% of its graduates employed or engaged in further study six months after leaving.

The university has recently invested £350 million across its three campuses. Last year it unveiled its new Students' Union building on the city site, making its facilities among the best in the country. It has also been named as one of the UK's most environmentally friendly universities in the People and Planet Green League.

Nottingham Trent University's world-class research has a direct impact on people's lives, as well as what students learn. Nearly 75% of the university's research activity achieved international status according to the latest Research Assessment Exercise. For more information visit www.ntu.ac.uk.

About Desire2Learn

Desire2Learn (D2L) is the pioneer of the integrated learning platform, delivering an engaging and personalized learning experience for every individual. With a focus on improving the learning experience, the company partners with thought-leading institutions and organizations to accelerate learning and improve results. D2L solutions are fully accessible to all, ensuring that learning is available to everyone regardless of geography or ability. A global leader in EdTech, D2L provides an open and extensible platform for more than 1,100 clients and 13 million learners in higher education, K12, healthcare, government and the enterprise sector, including Fortune 1000 companies. D2L has operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, Brazil and Singapore. For more information, visit: http://www.Desire2Learn.com.

Twitter: @Desire2Learn, @D2LNews

Twitter: @NTUNews

To view the first photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/desc0425.jpg

To view the second photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/dest0425.jpg