What is the innovation beyond the 'state of the art' in e-learning?

The motivation for this discussion paper comes from the recent FP7 framework ICT call for technology-enhanced learning applications for the 21st century that go beyond the current “state of the art” in e-learning. In this paper the question of the innovation be-yond the “state of the art” in e-learning is considered along with identification and dis-cussion of some of its defining characteristics in the context of higher education. A re-view and analysis of innovative learning applications and models is presented, with a specific focus on learning environments, and learning interactions. The University of Hertfordshire is used to provide an example of a “state of the art” University regarding the adoption of e-learning applications and methods in day-to-day learning and teaching practice. It is suggested that innovative and “beyond the state of art” e-learning models, tools and applications will be required to support high degrees of personalization and collaboration.