JISC

Overview

This project will deliver safe and secure authenticated access to learner data from off-site locations. Our approach will seek to provide maximum access to data, and at the same time minimise the risk to that data with encryption, and either by hosting the data in a secure data centre away from the device, or utilising a device that has little or no intrinsic value. The pilot will equip members of our Employer Engagement and Skills for Life teams with a choice of technologies, to allow them to access, test and evaluate assessment and progress data using different end devices.

Aims and objectives

This project will provide infrastructure to deliver safe and secure authenticated access to learner data from off-site locations.

In order to maximise the value of the pilot, we will equip our Employer Engagement team with a choice of technologies, which will allow them to access data using different end devices, and report back on the suitability and appropriateness of the different portable technologies.

Project methodology

The project is split into 5 work packages:

• Project Management using PRINCE2/JISC Project Management Guidelines
• Technological Development - Procurement hardware; design and implement VPN and termination servers; build and commission Shibboleth authentication server and integrate with network environment; build and configure all end user devices; develop synchronisation software for USB; provide technology support.
• Run Pilot with training in technology for Assessors and Employers this includes staging employer forums to promote benefits.
• Undertake participant survey at commencement, mid-point and end of project to research user satisfaction, use prototype technology
• Dissemination including staging demonstration events.

Anticipated outputs and outcomes

Project Outputs

• Secure access to learner data from remote learning and assessment sites
• Facility to download learner information onto transportable media.
• Development programme for staff and employers
• Improve levels success of learners
• Improve learning experience for learners, employers and assessors
• Reduce volume of paper used
• Dissemination and evaluation of project

Project Outcomes

• Raise the technological awareness of assessors and their respective learners and employers.
• Ensure that the technology enhances the experience of the assessor, learner and employer.
• Support the promotion of the JISC e-learning, BCE and LSC Skills agendas

Technology / Standards used

The project is seeking to design a solution which will integrate readily accessible hardware with a bespoke software development. In summary:

• Underpinning this solution will be an authentication server which the college will host
• Where a network connection is available in the workplace the server will be accessed via VPN from a thin client laptop
• Where there is no network available then VPN access will be from a thin client laptop / ultra mobile PC. Where the environment is unsuitable for a laptop/PC then access will be via a PDA.
• When the assessor is working in College learner data the will be synchronised via a bi-directional USB.

Where there is access to IT equipment in the workplace the assessor will have the option to work on an off-line copy of the learner data which will be synchronised automatically when next connected to a college computer.

Lead Institution

• Doncaster College

Project partners

• The Dome, NCS, Unipart Rail