Phase 1
In phase 1 (2004–2007), JISC funded 15 projects. The projects were divided into 4 strands:
- Larger scale projects to deploy VRE demonstrators based on existing frameworks, such as Sakai or OGCE
- Projects to identify functionality (in the form of tools and services developed in other projects) which has not hitherto been integrated into the existing framework architectures and to add such functionality to address clear user requirements
- Projects to develop and deploy lightweight, proof-of-concept VRE demonstrators appropriate to the needs and skills of specific communities
- A formative evaluation project to assess, as the programme proceeds, how effectively the selected projects are meeting the aims of the programme; to gather and disseminate best practice; to identify gaps; to raise awareness of the programme and stimulate discussion on VREs in the community; and to form an advisory group representative of all sectors of the research community to make recommendations for further work.
See the full list of VRE1 projects [Link Vre1 project page]
Evaluation phase 1
At the end of phase 1, a formative evaluation report [link pdf] was written by the Tavistock Institute This evaluation fed into the design of phase two.
Phase 2
In phase two (2007-2009), JISC funded 4 integrated pilot projects. These projects will bring together the experience of the projects in phase 1.
See the roadmap for phase 2
See the list of current projects
Future plans
JISC is presently working on the next round of evaluation and the plans for the VRE programme in the future. There are currently no funding opportunities in this programme.