Professor Brian Mac Craith:

On funding, as in the case of Trinity College Dublin, online resources became an issue of strategic intent for the Open University. We had to prioritise this issue because it was about enhancing the learning experience for students.

In terms of the infrastructure needed, we have had to take out a loan for what is called the "digital campus" project. We are completely replacing the IT infrastructure of the university across two campuses, making it fit for purpose, not only for a modern organisation but, most importantly, also in an environment of learning which will be increasingly blended.

On the issue of fees, under the current funding model for undergraduates, a student only receives funding once. This does not apply to those undertaking an online programme. That is the difference to which Professor Brown was referring. In other words, where a person decides to take an undergraduate degree programme online, there is no fee payment in that regard.