JISC

Download the full report

This project sought to exploit the opportunities provided by new and emerging technology to enhance the learning experience of students starting in science-based higher education.

Executive Summary

Based on a partnership between Kingston College and Kingston University, the project focused on the introduction of mobile services (principally SMS and podcasting) to support learners on a large access programme that provides a progression route between the two institutions: the Science Degree Foundation course.

Our aim was to develop and evaluate models of good practice in relation to learning support, learning and assessment within science education.

Key findings

Students are, on the whole, proficient users of mobile technologies and are generally positive about the opportunities it provides for enhancing their learning experience. When they understand that there is a real benefit in supporting their studies, particularly when tutors provide a clear message about its value, learners are responsive to the use of SMS and audio podcast services.

The use of mobile technologies within further/higher education can be both enabling and disruptive, in that they provide new opportunities for communications and learning and yet create new demands on teachers, the relationship the learner has with the College and also in the area of institutional support. They are likely to be most effective when their transformative role is fully appreciated and they are not regarded as an enhancement to or substitute for existing practice.

Technical challenges associated with successful implementation of mobile technologies are significant and require extensive development and testing work before it can be rolled out. However, once established mobile services are reasonably straightforward to maintain and can be integrated into curriculum practice in a sustainable way.

Support for tutors is a major consideration in the embedding of mobile technologies. We are currently exploring mechanisms for providing specific ongoing support for podcast production following completion of the project. This support will involve time being given for tutors in the faculty for development and maintenance of podcasts, dedicated faculty-based support and additional training in the use of KCOD, the College’s curriculum management system. These are part of a series of initiatives designed to ensure sustainability.

Download the full report below. Report available electronically only.