BECTA

Disappointed to hear that BECTA will close this is in my view is the origins of where we all started with e -learning, we have been through lots of really useful projects with BECTA and achieved so much. Starting with Ferl and the ILT champions,the Ferl Practitioners Programme, TENS projects and more recently the Generator self assessment tools.

I hope that this work isn't forgotten and we continue to carry on the e-learning work. I wish all the BECTA staff luck with their new careers

Second Life

I have been told so much about Virtual Worlds that I thought I would try this for myself. With some hesitance as I was struggling to see the relevance for my work. Fortunately I have been partly converted, this is due to a virtual training and tour which was arranged by colleague Jane Edwards AKA Lady Jane Plympton. The tour of Virtual Ability Net really helped me to visualise how a virtual world can make a difference to the life's may people. The guide and Director of Virtual Ability Alice Krueger, Gentle Heron in world told us her story. Second Life has opened many doors in society that would not of been possible in my 1st life. Being part of a community and not being judged or having any restrictions has made my life more bearable. Virtual Ability Island provides the home for our new resident orientation and training, developed for people with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Here, new residents can learn Second Life® fundamentals in an accessibility-friendly environment, and existing residents can receive ongoing training and information about health-related issues and support groups. This island was created through a partnership with the Alliance Library System.I am still learning about Second Life I can see that the positives out way the negatives and hope that others have the opportunity to take a tour. The possibilities are endless especially if you’re working in education. Take a look at Virtual Ability at http://virtualability.org/default.aspx

Discover 'e'

2010 is RSC WM’s annual on-line event.

This year we will be celebrating 10 years of working with the post 16 learning and skills sector in stimulating and supporting innovation with e-learning and technology.
Information:
To mark 10 years of the West Midlands Regional Support Centre, Discover e-2010 has brought together case studies from across the post 16 learning skill sector which will “tell” and “share” how learning providers have progressed and applied technology to support teaching and learning. Guest speakers from further and 6th form colleges, HEI’s, specialist colleges, adult and community and work-based learning, will provide ‘live’ online presentations to explain how their organisation has used technology to improve the quality of teaching and learning for students / learners. Discover e-2010 will be interactive so delegates will have an opportunity to discuss and post questions to guest speakers as well as interact with other delegates.

Theres still time to book a place http://info.rsc-wm.ac.uk/events/event_details.asp?eid=524