@sparqs_scotland

A discussion and exploration of the use of online resources, training and information

for course reps

David Scottsparqs

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn

Outline of session

• The “e” landscape – how has it changed?• Online training for course reps – what are the

advantages and are there any disadvantages?• What is out there in the sector?• What is sparqs doing in terms of online training

development and what would you like to see?• Edinburgh University Students’ Association

developments in online training• Discussion/questions

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn

The landscape

Internet speeds now provide more functionality and a more interactive learning experience – everyday use of internet tools is ubiquitous.

Sparqs – founded in 2003sparqs established in 2003

Facebook 2004YouTube 2005Twitter 2006Spotify 20082003 719 millions 11.1%2013 2802 millions 39%

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Online training

• 2013 CIPD Learning and Talent Development Study

– 74% companies using e-learning as a method of training– 91% think it useful, combined with other methods

(blended approach)– 75% essential for learning

Are we missing a trick with our approach to course rep training?

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Online training of course reps

• What are the advantages of online training?

• Are there disadvantages, and if there are what are they?

10 minutes in small groups of 5

Feedback – 3-5 advantages and disadvantages

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Report back session feedback from groups

• Advantages

1. Any where any time2. More students3. Own pace4. Standardised5. Less resource intensive6. Refresher7. Blended training

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Report back session feedback from groups

• Disadvantages

1. No sense of community - isolation2. Peer learning3. Not flexible4. Resources – online learning expertise?5. Access to resources?6. Assumed ability and skills

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Advantages

• More flexible• Mobile• No travel• Lower costs (at least in the longer term, after development…)• Tailored to learner• Ability to test understanding – quizzes/assessment• Technological possibilities to enhance interaction (VC, online

forums)

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Disadvantages

• Lack of control – motivational issues• Learning approach – activists, pragmatists• Isolated – human interaction• Technical issues – compatibility, Flash, internet connections• IT competency of students and deliverers

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What is out there in the sector?

I haven’t seen a lot, and nothing which matches the potential of the technology available:

Cardiff Met Online Course Rep TrainingAnglia Ruskin University Induction for Course RepsWeb pages which outline roles and responsibilities but very little interaction

Wide use of Powerpoint and Prezi – essentially one way media

Generally, agencies such as Jisc, CDN using webinars more readily.

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What is sparqs doing?

• Jisc bids for funding– Working with sector colleagues– Staff development materials/Apprentices

• Moodle – College Development Network– Training on platform– Development of materials – potentially all training given an online

option• Identification and spreading of good practice• Central vs Local development – learn from pioneers

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Current development and what’s next

• Demonstration of Edinburgh University Students’ Association developments in online training - Tanya Lubicz-Navrocka

• How do we see and how do we want online approaches to course rep training to develop?

David ScottInstitutional Support and Development ManagerSparqsdavid.scott@sparqs.ac.uk07977980867