Equipping teachers to use technology to deliver learning
In recent years, rapid developments in the use and availability of ICT in education have brought real benefits to teaching styles and teachers are becoming increasingly dependent on technology to deliver learning. This raises a particular challenge for teachers who are not naturally proficient in IT or who have not received formal training in its use in the classroom.
Cascade, a multimedia training unit within the University of Hull, was launched in 2002 with its main aim being to support the development of skills and teaching for schools and colleges. In 2006, Cascade split into two strands with Leo Sietniekas and George Barker from the University of Hull running Short Courses ICT through the Centre for Educational Studies (CES). The aim of the courses is to support creative individuals and organisations to realise their multimedia aspirations.
By working with education practitioners from different sectors, Cascade specialises in the use of new and emerging technologies based around the themes of creativity, digital media and social networking. They describe themselves as being “at the sharp end of delivering digital education”. They target teachers, PGCE students, teaching assistants and anyone who supports in a school. Courses on offer include Supporting Learning and Teaching with ICT, Creativity in Digital Media and Teaching and Learning using Interactive Whiteboards. They also provide a base from which staff can work towards the University Foundation Award (UFA).
The modules and study routes have been designed for delivery by City Learning Centres, Local Authority Education Centres and schools, while accreditation is by the University of Hull.
Leo Sietniekas says, “We are teaching teachers how to teach with ICT. There has been a massive switch to digital applications supporting learning which has now been written into the curriculum. It is becoming a requirement, so this is a positive drive towards our courses.”
He continues, “At first there was a reluctance to recognise the benefits of technology but, more recently, people have started to see the impacts and are work is being recognised. Time to conduct the training can also be a problem, but we have tackled this by taking the training into schools and colleges.”
In 2007, approximately 1000 students undertook ICT training through the CES and a similar number are expected in 2008.
Claire Duffin is the Curriculum Development Manager at Holgate CLC in Barnsley, which is running the Creativity in Digital Media course for teachers.
Claire says, “The success of both courses has been phenomenal and the impact in the classroom has been widely appreciated by pupils, teachers and head teachers. The development of new skills and confidence in using ICT among teaching assistants has been paramount. Two of the teaching assistants have gained promotions as a result.”
Contact details:
University of Hull
Centre for Educational Studies
Cottingham Road
Hull
HU6 7RX
T: 01482 465988
