LSIS launches eCPD Programme to enhance teaching and learning in FE

On February 5 2009 the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) launched its new eCPD Programme, which has been designed to improve and enhance teaching and learning through effective use of technology.

The launch, which was attended in person or remotely by a total of almost 300 delegates, combined keynote speeches with a choice of 20 workshops showcasing technologies and case studies.

Welcoming the launch conference, Siôn Simon, Minister for Further Education at DIUS said, "At the heart of the eCPD Programme are people on the ground: particularly the network of facilitators and professional development advisers. Their skill and know-how, combined with the commitment of individual providers, will take the sector forward in its use of technology in teaching and learning."

Shifting the focus away from technology and back to learners and learning is a central part of the LSIS strategy. The eCPD Programme falls within LSIS’s Teaching and Learning Programme, and features a new online learning space intended to provide a means by which practitioners can manage their career and professional development. The programme will build the capacity of the workforce to exploit teaching and learning potential through the use of a range of technologies. These include an online library and a social networking function. It will provide a platform from which personalised CPD action plans can be built, promoting sound pedagogical practice and supporting providers’ strategic objectives.

Toni Fazaeli, chief executive of the Institute for Learning (IfL) commented, "We recently launched our new five-year strategy, in which we recognise the extent to which technology can transform learning for teaching professionals and bring considerable benefits to their learners, wherever learning takes place. Technology also has a powerful part to play in supporting our members’ professional development, and making technology accessible to over 180,000 members will be a huge challenge. The eCPD Programme fits with our REfLECT eportfolio and will be useful in encouraging our members to use new technology effectively."

An online learning space (http://ecpd.bdplearning.com) has been developed with Becta, IfL, LSIS and other representatives from the whole FE system to support the delivery of the programme and to help practitioners to plan their 30 hours or pro rata annual continuing professional development as required by the Institute for Learning.

Supporting whole organisational approaches to using technology for learning is also key and an essential feature of the programme. Another is the recruitment of several hundred Professional Development Advisers (PDAs) who are being trained to champion teaching approaches in their own organisations. The next cohort of PDAs will commence training on 31 March 2009. Providers are invited to nominate a member of staff by 9 March by completing and returning the PDA nomination form available at http://ecpd.bdplearning.com.

The keynote speeches from the day and selected workshops will shortly be available online from http://ecpd.bdplearning.com. For more information on the eCPD Programme and to nominate a PDA visit http://ecpd.bdplearning.com or contact: [email protected], tel: 020 7 939 7611.