[11a] Help! Where am I? Mapping a way through blended learning.
Speaker
- Matt James, Associate Professor, Institute of Theology and Liberal Arts, St Mary’s University.
Abstract
Learning to navigate your way through the range of activities and tools for learning online can be challenging and daunting for students. Providing some form of signposting enables students to both see a way through the process as well as grasp the progress they are making in terms of learning. A recent Jisc HE staff survey found something similar. Staff felt that to improve the quality of digital teaching and learning, digital learning environments needed to be more usable, easily navigated and better integrated (Jisc 2020: p. 9;15.). In this session, I will discuss how I have tried to respond to this challenge but designing a blended learning map to guide students through their use of Moodle and derive maximum benefit from the range of tools on offer to them as they learn. Recognising that a truly effective learning experience facilitates student knowledge construction (Chee 2002:10), the map also assists with the creation of an effective learning community. Student and staff experiences will be shared with the aim of learning how best to engage online in this new digital ‘space’ so that it forms an integral part of the student and staff experience, not merely an ‘add on’ extra (Iosad 2020: p.7).
References
- Chee,Y.S. (2002). Refocusing learning on pedagogy in a connected world. On the Horizon. 10,4. Pp.78-13
- Iosad, A. (2020). Digital at the Core: A 2030 strategy framework for university leaders. London: Jisc; Universities UK; Emerge Education.
- Jisc. (2020). Teaching staff digital experience insights survey 2020: UK higher education (HE) survey findings. Bristol: Jisc. Available at: https://repository.jisc.ac.uk/8184/1/Teaching%20DEI%20HE%20report%202020%20v1.4.pdf (Accessed: 23 April 2021)
[11b] Interactive Workshop: Supporting Student Wellbeing Online During Covid-19—An interactive workshop with the Wellbeing Service
Speaker
- Helen Duncan, Disability Service Manager, St Mary’s University; Mairead Watson, Wellbeing & Disability Adviser, St Mary’s University.
Abstract
During this mini-workshop we will explore some of the successes and challenges we have encountered supporting students during the coronavirus pandemic. A person-centred approach is integral to our service, so we have had to adapt and individualise our approach to deliver assistive technology training and support, specialist mentoring or tutoring and advice and case management. We met the different needs of our students using strategies for visual, auditory and kinaesthetic learners; experiencing a range of different disabilities such as: mental health challenges, neurodiversity, sensory and mobility impairments and long-term health conditions. The use of technology has allowed us to find innovative student support solutions and empower students to take control of their own learning and personal development. Join us as we share lessons learned and also welcome new ideas as we move forward into a “new normal” this upcoming academic year.