E-learning in Devon ACL - Overview
Contact: Ralph Cullimore is the E-learning Co-ordinator for Devon ACL - email: ralph.cullimore@devon.gov.uk
What is E-learning?
E-learning is the use of electronic devices, communications or resources in the process of learning. It covers a wide range of approaches from occasional low level use right through to new ways of delivering whole courses. In Devon ACL the emphasis is on e-learning that is easy to use and readily accessible, rather than on complex or technically-demanding approaches.
Examples within Devon ACL include the use of:
- digital cameras in Arts & Crafts to record, inspire and celebrate
- digital voice recorders in Languages for learner-friendly assessment
- laptops and data projectors to present ready-made resources
- a shared forum for Life Choices learner groups to compare and engage
- a range of electronic equipment and resources in Family Learning
- recommended website lists, email contact, shared resources etc by increasing numbers of tutors and curriculum areas
- increasing numbers of generic materials available electronically for tutors to adapt
- use of the Moodle ‘virtual learning environment’ as a focus for increasing numbers of courses
Equipment
The Service has a number of digital cameras, digital voice recorders (with separate powered speakers if required) and other equipment. There are also a small number of laptops and data-projectors in each of the main centres for loan to tutors there. The main centres have wireless Internet access so that tutors can use a loan laptop, or a laptop of their own if they wish, to access online resources for use with their learners.
e-Learning Strategy
Devon ACL has a brief e-Learning Strategy covering the period 2008-2011. The second half of the document includes a range of objectives, each with a planned timescale. To view this document, click the link below:
Useful Links
Learning with Technology - http://www.ialsupport.org.uk - aimed at tutors, this website provides resources, links and ideas for using technology in teaching and learning.
BBC online intro to mouse, keyboard, Internet etc for beginners - http://www.bbc.co.uk/webwise/course/index.shtml then click ‘Computer Tutor' or 'Learn how to use the Internet'. If learners don’t have easy access to a computer, they can book to use one (for free) at the local library where there’s a fast internet connection and someone to help log in.
Myguide site for beginners - http://www.myguide.gov.uk - similar to the BBC site but presented in a slightly different way so allows a second opportunity to learn and consolidate. The basic courses can be used straight-away. For the more detailed courses the user needs to register with the site (but only once) by giving their name and address, choosing a security question etc. The site is trustworthy and complies with data protection requirements so this is safe. Once registered the user can also get a simple, free, web-based email account if they want.