Highland : Using digital technologies to empower pupils in their own learning
What is this?
This project explored the use of digital technologies across a range of different subjects within the secondary curriculum. The aim was to use these digital technologies to create a bank of digital resources that was accessed by pupils and teachers across the school intranet.
FLaT involvement?
FLaT support was being provided to pilot new ways of using digital technologies in learning and teaching.
Links with National Priorities?
1. Achievement and Attainment
2. Framework for Learning
3. Inclusion and Equality
4. Values and Citizenship
5. Learning for Life
Project aims?
This project investigated the effect of using digital technologies on learning and teaching styles. The process of multimedia project creation was centred on pupils making decisions, making informed choices and looking critically at their work and making improvements.
The creation of digital films, digital music and digital photographs within a variety of subject contexts allowed pupils to acquire and apply a broad range of knowledge, understanding and skills that are required by modern society. This digital approach allowed them the opportunity to develop their creativity to a greater degree than traditional teaching methodologies.
Using digital technologies also nurtured and encouraged different types of learning styles. It allowed teachers to "tap into" other types of learning styles that pupils may have, especially visual/spatial; musical/rhythmic and interpersonal. These learning styles can often be less utilised within traditional learning and teaching methods.
As a result of these digital products being shared throughout the school network via a Quicktime media server, pupils became more motivated and they felt more valued. This contributed towards an ethos within the school where achievement is further developed and celebrated.
Project outcomes?
- Pupils in participating departments were able to construct personal e portfolios of their work.
- Subject departments collaborated in the production of digital lessons.
- The use of digital technologies and related pupil skill developments to build up digital resources for use of future cohorts of young people.
- Digital lessons became an integral part of pupil revision and learning resources for future pupils
- The school intranet was developed to allow digital video streaming to showcase pupil work.
- Used digital technology to enhance an integrated community schools approach allowing all community partners to work more closely together.
Timescale?
The project was started in February 2004 and was completed in March 2005.
Level of Support?
FLaT support was a grant of £59,418 plus evaluation costs.
Who are the evaluation team?
To be agreed.
Contact person:
Jim Henderson, PT Management, Gairloch High School, Actercairn, Gairloch, IV21 2BP. Tel: 01445 712275. Email: jim.henderson@highland.gov.uk