August 10, 2020
A report published by The Edge Foundation explores the use of EdTech in further education colleges
The Edge Foundation recently published a report to explore the use of EdTech in Further Education (FE).
Four colleges, Basingstoke College of Technology, Dundee and Angus College, Suffolk New College and Belfast Metropolitan College were selected as case studies to help explore the following two areas:
- How EdTech is helping staff and students develop skills for the future
- The challenges faced by staff members in integrating technology into lessons
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Jobs will require digital skills (Department for Education)
Colleges
Basingstoke College of Technology
Basingstoke College of Technology is based in Basingstoke, Hampshire. It offers a range of vocational courses and qualifications on both a part-time and full-time basis.
Dundee and Angus College
Dundee and Angus College is based in the Tayside region of Scotland. It offers over 1000 courses from introductory level to postgraduate studies.
Suffolk New College
Suffolk New College is based in Ipswich offering vocational qualifications and apprenticeships.
The Centre for Supported Learning at Belfast Metropolitan College
The Centre for Supported Learning provides specialist courses for students and adults with moderate, severe and complex learning difficulties.
Methodology
A qualitative methodology with each college forming separate case studies. A total of 25 semi-structured interviews were conducted alongside informal observations.
The end of the report includes a brief summary of the main findings from each college:
Basingstoke College of Technology
The use of learning technologists helps support staff in their use of EdTech.
Dundee and Angus College
A digital culture has been created and the incorporation of STEM is evident.
Suffolk New College
A focused CPD program runs throughout the year for staff.
The Centre for Supported Learning at Belfast Metropolitan College
A program is in place to support students with various levels of learning difficulties.
You can read more about EdTech here: https://global-edtech.com/edtech-definitions-products-and-trends/
RECOMMENDED: https://global-edtech.com/category/report/
“ There has been a dramatic rise in the use of education technology (EdTech) during the Covid-19 pandemic highlighting the importance of having accessible technology that can connect people and improve their lives, ultimately transforming the way we think of education as a whole… ” Education Technology in Further Education Colleges, The Edge Foundation
