Virtual Learning Environments (VLES) are increasingly becoming commonplace in higher education, being used to support or deliver, and to administer teaching and learning. VLES are internet-based learning environments that can provide many pedagogical and administrative benefits to academic institutions, by integrating and controlling access to resources and tools such as:

• · Delivery of course materials
• · Submission and marking of assignments
• · Electronic communications tools such as discussion forums and chat rooms
• · Student tracking and course administration tools
• · Links to other administrative systems such as management information systems