ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to explore the impact of UK government policy on higher education since the 1980s. The focal point for discussion will centre on the rationale that government policy to widen and increase student participation is a key factor driving UK universities to invest in e-Mediated learning technologies. Many higher institutions of learning in the UK believe that e-mediated learning technology can provide a panacea to meet the demands created through these policies by increasing efficiency and reducing work tasks. Yet, there is conflicting evidence on the extent to which such technologies can provide a blanket solution. As such, this chapter will present the findings from an empirical investigation, which highlights how such technologies redefine academic staff roles and restructure work tasks roles rather than reduce work tasks and thus bring the consequences of government policy on UK higher education to the forefront.
