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Work-based and vocational mobile learning
A guide was produced full of tips and information about getting the best out of the PDA when recording videos and taking still pictures. Engineering tutors produced revision resources containing symbols used in engineering (using images input into Photo Story) for use on learners’ own mobile phones; the PDAs proved to be a very effective way of beaming a single file to a large group of learners. The tutors also encouraged learners to create their own resources, by using the PDAs’ voice-recording feature to record their own revision guides and then share them with their peers (using Bluetooth) for use outside the classroom. Links A Photostory resource created to remind carpentry students of the steps they need to follow when hanging a door (with narration) http://www.moleshare.org.uk/resources.asp?ExRef=E&d=1&ID=46
E-portfolio and apprenticeships Ludlow College, academic year 2008/09 Introduction The project in this case study considered whether e-technologies could improve assessment and achievement and retention for apprenticeships. The courses were delivered wholly in the workplace using a web-based portfolio, with netbooks provided to support learners that did not have access to the internet at work and/or home. Aims The aim was to see whether delivering learning opportunities and assessment to 25 apprentices via the internet improved achievement and retention against national benchmarks. The provision of netbooks enabled all learners to access their e-portfolios, ensuring equality of opportunity. Addressing the challenge Traditionally the learners taking part in these courses travelled to college for knowledge sessions for their technical certificate, NVQs and Key Skills. It was decided to see whether delivering the whole course in the workplace would aid retention in this very rural area where travel is a barrier to learning (from September 2009 this was extended further, using web cams to deliver Key Skills to learners in the workplace to save travel for the Key Skills tutor). All candidates had their apprenticeship portfolios stored on a web-based portfolio system. They were encouraged to use the portfolio to upload their own work and communicate with their assessor/tutor. Reactions Learners’ reactions The learners responded very positively and were keen to use the e-portfolio further: The use of the e-portfolio and the loan of the web-book made my apprenticeship easier to manage alongside work.