In this episode, we chat with Valerie Innes, Head of Next Generation Qualifications and Standards at SQA, and lecturers Maire Nisbet and Jayne Clark from South Lanarkshire College who have been developing and delivering the NextGen version of the HNC in Childhood Practice. Links to content mentioned in the episode: SQA Next Generation Higher National Qualifications SQA Academy - NextGen: HN ..read more

In this episode, we chat with Paddy Shepperd from Jisc around the emergence of generative AI services such as ChatGPT, and how lecturers and students can respond to opportunities and challenges. Part 2 explores the implications of AI for assessment, and how ethics forms a part of the discussion.  Links to content mentioned in the episode: Jisc National Centre for AI Exploring the role of generative AI in assessments: A student perspective A pathway towards responsible, ethical AI Episode 24: Pedagogy Matters with Allan Glen - Project Based Learning CDN AI in College Education (March 2023 ..read more

In this episode, we chat with Kenji Lamb from the team here at CDN on how AI (Artificial Intelligence) is playing its part in college education and how it might play out in the future. This is tied to an event 'AI in College Education' that we're running this week which if you can't make it, will be recorded and available on the CDN website.  Links to content mentioned in the episode: Jisc Explore AI ChatGPT Makes History: First AI to Write & Direct Film Stable Diffusion - AI image generator Midjourney - AI image generator (requires Discord account) ChatGPT D-ID Alice Chatbot Introdu ..read more

In this episode, we chat with Kellie Mote from Jisc about digital accessibility and how simple steps using the tools we have to hand can make a significant difference to staff and students accessing digital content. Kellie covers the legal obligations introduced through the Public Sector Body Accessibility Regulations (PSBAR) in 2018, explaining what it means in real terms for college staff. Links to Jisc resources: Getting started with accessibility and inclusion Accessibility and assistive technology communities   ..read more

In this episode, we talk to Boyd Stewart, lecturer at Edinburgh College. The conversation focusses around Boyd’s experiences of how his practice has evolved over time and how COVID and the cost of living crisis has shaped this more recently. Boyd reflects on the particular challenges of delivering a practical course remotely and with limited access to physical workspaces. The discussion also covers a switch to a focus on meta-skills and readiness to work. View Pedagogy Matters - Episode 25 Transcript here ..read more

In this episode, we talk to Allan Glen from Edinburgh College and discuss the approach taken in his curriculum area in relation to project based learning. Allan shares his inspiration for reviewing the curriculum offer with his team, which led to a shift in focus across all aspects of the curriculum and significantly reduced the assessment burden on students and staff. Allan shares his advice and approach on all aspects of the process, including some guidance principles as well as considerations relating to quality assurance.  View Pedagogy Matters - Episode 24 Transcript here ..read more

In this episode we talk to Hazel Brady, Director at West Lothian College about the approaches taken to Professional Development. The College has introduced West Lothian Wednesdays, protected time for staff development, as part of their offer and Hazel shares what has been learnt along the journey, both in terms of structure and how this is being supported by Learning Champions.  ..read more

In this episode, we talk to Jonny Kay, Head of Teaching, Learning and Assessment at Newcastle College. Jonny is a former English teacher with a wealth of experience across the school/college sector and more recently, the author of Improving Maths and English In Further Education: A Practical Guide.  We discuss all things English and maths, with a focus on ideas to improve the delivery of standalone qualifications, as well as the importance of all lecturers/teachers helping to make learners more literate and numerate.  ..read more

In this episode, we talk to Martin McGuire, WorldSkills UK Director, Scotland. Martin describes how regional, national and international competition, can raise standards in vocational education, and by embracing the values and ethos of WorldSkills, we can have a positive impact on students and the development of their skills. WorldSkills UK website WorldSkills Kazan 2019 (YouTube video, 2m 27s)  ..read more

In this episode, we talk to Dr Lee Coutts about the topic of Transformative Learning and Teaching. Lee shares his perspective on how education can be socially progressive, making a positive difference to society. He describes a transformative learning pedagogical approach for and with students, and how adopting approaches such as (student-led) professionally authentic assessment can make a real impact on curriculum delivery ..read more