13 DEC 2016

Where to find support to help you teach with Tech

Teaching with technology can pose many challenges for an FE Lecturer. Not only is there an initial level of familiarity and skill required to use a tool yourself, but then the capacity to use this to form a useful and successful lesson for your charges

Teaching with technology can pose many challenges for an FE Lecturer. Not only is there an initial level of familiarity and skill required to use a tool yourself, but then the capacity to use this to form a useful and successful lesson for your charges. In addition to this, there's the fact that even when you are familiar with a particular tool, there are bound to be issues that spring up just when you are in front of a class. As we have mentioned, the FE sector has really started striving to research and develop effective ways to bring tech into FE. So now, when it comes to using technology in Further Education, there are a few helpful pointers to consider and many resources out there for you to access and utilise for success. If you are keen to bring more tech into your classroom, have a read of the following (and do share it with your contacts who may find it useful.)

Beware of tech for tech’s sake

The first thing we need to address is the proliferation of what we will call ‘tech for tech’s sake.’ Over the past few years, there has been a push towards incorporating advanced gadgets and software in order to teach students about the fast-paced world of tech. But is this actually useful, and is an iPad really better than a pen and paper in the classroom setting? If the gadget or tech has no specific purpose, many experts are starting to say ‘no’ as it will often just serve as a distraction, hinder the learning process and give the lecturer more to worry about.

App and software solutions for FE Lecturers

Once you have made the decision to use specific tech in your classroom, it is time to choose the apps, software programs and devices that are best for you and your unique teaching style. Some of our favourite suggestions include Google Classroom. This is an online tool, hosted by Google, that allows you to organise assignments, schedule classes and communicate with students. There is also Trello; perfect for the times when your class is working on a collaborative project. Skype, Facebook Groups and Dropbox can all be used to great effect, depending on the specific task at hand. Screencast is another valuable resource that many FE Lecturers are successfully using. This tool allows you to record a lecture (similar to how you would record a live event) and make it available for students before and/or after the lesson. By allowing students to review and re-watch a lecture, you can really help those who struggle to absorb information all in one go, which is particularly useful for those with learning difficulties. If all this sounds very unfamiliar and you'd really like to familiarise yourself with the territory first and access some external coaching and support, check out Richard Byrne’s blog and Mark Anderson’s website for their many top tips.

Embrace YouTube – in more ways than one

YouTube is a brilliant resource, not only for your own research purposes but also as a tool to keep students interested and engaged in the topic at hand. This post of 20 YouTube Channels for Educators is a great place to start to develop your own knowledge. It features several channels focussed on all things Google, as well as more general ones looking at various tools and techniques that work. You can also use YouTube to help explain complex topics or processes to your students. Simply search YouTube for the topic and watch a few videos until you find an interesting one that you think will resonate with your class.

Existing support networks for FE teachers

Feel like you need some support, training and reflection with other FE Lecturers? The following organisations are focused on the providing tech support for lecturers and professionals.

• FELTAG - Further Education Learning Technology Action Group. “The FELTAG Coalition consists of membership bodies representing the whole of the FE and Skills sector and the full range of provision that is available to learners, employers and the wider community.”
• This year’s New Media Consortium Horizon Report has made FE tech a priority, and it recommends a 'continuous process of exploration and definition, especially because of how rapidly technologies evolve.' This approach can be applied to your FE teaching and learning programmes.
• City & Guilds - City & Guilds’ Culture, Coaching and Collaboration report (and reporting group) provide valuable resources and information. “The City & Guilds Centre for Skills Development (CSD) is a not-for-profit research and development body for vocational education and training.”

Building your own support network

As an effective educator, it is always a good idea to continue your education and reach for support and training when you encounter new concepts. If your institution does not provide you with educational opportunities to further your knowledge, and you are not able to access the collaboratives we mention in here, consider creating a support network of other Lecturers. This can be a place (either physical or virtual) where you can come together to share ideas, teach each other about new programs and gain confidence about technology.

What tech are you planning to try?

Let us know what tech you already use to teach and what solutions you plan to try out in the comments.