Promoting independent learning through technology Key messages from Ofsted research for learning support staff Dr Shirley Evans 26 November 2010

Ofsted Research Came about because of comments at a conference saying that areas for development in Specialist Colleges included:- The use, availability and accessibility of information and communication technology for learners and staff. The use of management information systems for eg. learning tracking and progress. Teaching skills to use a wide range of strategies to motivate challenge and raise learners’ expectations.

Ofsted Research JISC TechDis have been managing technology funding for Specialist Colleges for six years. Many colleges have become fully engaged in technology over that time including all the Grade 1 colleges. Most large Specialist Colleges are fully engaged in technology; most medium are partly engaged and most small are not engaged. Recent inspections show an improvement in inspection grades. Technology is not flagged up sufficiently in the Ofsted reports – not many examples in the reports.

Ofsted Research Most ISCs judged to be good or better are very effective at promoting the use of technology to support and manage learning. Beaumont College: The use of ICLT and adaptive technology is particularly effective in reducing barriers to the curriculum. A third of all learners are working towards accreditation in functional skills English, maths and/or information and communications technology (ICT).

Ofsted Research Thornbeck College: To make ILPs fully accessible to learners they are kept on personal electronic storage devices and this helps to develop learners’ information and communication technology (ICT) skills. Linkage College: In their last inspection the college was judged to have an innovative approach to technology to promote and capture achievement; for example, each learner was helped to build up a web-based record of their progress over time.

Technology What technologies do you use that promote independent learning?

The Inspector Calls Who has been inspected by Ofsted recently? Did you speak to inspectors? Did they see you using technology? Why would they want to see you using technology?

Common Inspection Framework Check that technology is used effectively to promote and support learning, where appropriate.

What do these have in common?

What is a tool? A tool is, among other things, a device that provides a mechanical or mental advantage in accomplishing a task (WebIQ). A tool enables you to carry out a task in more effective and efficient way than without it. A tool has to be fit for purpose - the right tool for the job and for the individual concerned.

Ofsted Research Why is technology not flagged up by Ofsted? Because it is not used? Not generally the case. Because it is not used effectively. Sometimes the case. Because not shouted from rooftops by colleges. Quite often the case. Because it is not understood? Quite often the case.

Who? Which? Why? How? Where? What? Who is using the technology? Which technology? Why are you using the technology - purpose? How are you using it? Where are you using it? What is the impact or SO WHAT?

Key messages The most effective colleges are those that are fully engaged with technology. Technology is a tool that can help promote independent learning. To promote independent learning the technology needs to be the right tool for the job. Ask yourself who?, which?, why?, how? where? So What?

Ofsted Research Conclusion Whilst it is recognised that technology can only be a contributory factor to the success of a college, it is certainly a very powerful tool and its use must be fully embedded in strategy and practice.

Toolbox Make good use of today and fill up your tool box!

Any questions? Any questions please?

Promoting independent learning through technology Key messages from Ofsted research for learning support staff Dr Shirley Evans