@sparqs_scotland A discussion and exploration of the use of online resources, training and information for course reps David Scott sparqs

@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 2003 sparqs established in 2003 Facebook2004 YouTube2005 Twitter2006 Spotify millions 11.1% millions 39%

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn 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?

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn 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

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn Report back session feedback from groups Advantages 1. Any where any time 2.More students 3.Own pace 4.Standardised 5.Less resource intensive 6. Refresher 7. Blended training

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn Report back session feedback from groups Disadvantages 1. No sense of community - isolation 2. Peer learning 3.Not flexible 4.Resources – online learning expertise? 5. Access to resources? 6. Assumed ability and skills

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn 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)

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn 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

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn 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 Training Anglia Ruskin University Induction for Course Reps Web 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.

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn 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

@sparqs_Scotland #sparqsCRTcn 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 Scott Institutional Support and Development Manager Sparqs