JISC

Overview

This project (KRADLE) seeks to exploit the opportunities provided by ICT systems to manage and enhance the relationship between Kingston College and its learners. It focuses on the integration of existing web applications to create a two-way information environment for learners before, during and after their period of active study within the institution. Initiating student voice involvement to establish types of information and methods used for communicating with applicants and students throughout their lifecycle resulting in improved conversion and retention rates.

Aims and objectives

• Map and analyse existing systems and processes systematic examination and evaluation of current methods for handling data relating to learner engagement with the College and involvement of student input and student voice.
• Explore further development of KRADLE Staff Portals data from a variety of College systems, presently being used to process elements of the student lifecycle will be exposed in a dedicated area of the institution’s staff information portal.
• Explore the KRADLE Student Portal information, resources, activities and communication tools designed to support students and strengthen their relationship with Kingston College by investigating the need for a Getting Ready to Study Site at Kingston for FE and HE students providing personalised information as early on in the lifecycle as possible

Project methodology

The methodology of the KRADLE project is grounded in the principles of service design. This will involve working closely with student and staff stakeholders to identify elements of the learner experience through the College that need to improve; iterative design, testing and implementation of ICT-based solutions to address the issues that have been identified; and the review of affected methods and processes.

The key methodological tools to support this approach will be:

• Student surveys
• Focus groups
• Review meetings
• Service design artefacts (e.g. annotated screenshots, pictures, diary entries, interviews, colour-coded priority lists)
• Longitudinal study group
• Remodelling and design of key ICT products (e.g. application and enrolment forms, student portal)
• Project evaluation surveys.

Anticipated outputs and outcomes

Student impacts

• greater sense of engagement with the College
• access to information about College facilities and processes
• improved services developed though greater attention to the ‘student voice’
• targeted support to students having been identified as ‘at risk’
• faster integration and smoother transition into College life

College impacts

• improved conversion rates from enquiry to application through to enrolment
• improved retention, achievement and success rates
• raised levels of customer satisfaction
• growth in the value of the alumni body
• strengthening of links with local schools, local support bodies and higher education establishments