What is E-Learning?

E-Learning is learning and teaching through Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) not learning and teaching about how to use computers and related technology, although confidence and competence in using ICT opens the door to E-Learning. E-Learning describes the way that Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is re-modelling learning and education in our digital world. E-Learning transforms the way that everyone learns: at home, in our schools and colleges, in our libraries, and in the workplace. Through the use of tools such as Learning Platforms or VLEs (Virtual Learning Environments) and other communication and collaboration tools, E-Learning can make knowledge accessible to all communities.

By developing three key components of E-Learning we aim to provide unified, systematic and sustainable support for schools. These key components are:

1. Infrastructure

The BucksGfL (Buckinghamshire Grid for Learning http://www.bucksgfl.org.uk/) broadband network is a technically robust, distributed and well-supported infrastructure with excellent connectivity. It is available to all County schools and meets or exceeds all DFE Broadband specifications and requirements. It provides (amongst other benefits) Adobe ‘Connect’ videoconferencing, filtered web access and email for all users, edge caching servers hosting software such as ‘Espresso’, a backup service for school servers and access to all E-Learning resources including our ‘Moodle’ based VLE and E-Portfolio system. The BucksGfL infrastructure also supports opportunities for E-Learning outside formal learning structures through the implementation of effective remote access systems to school based resources.

2. Content

In addition to sourcing discounted software through ‘BLi Group ’ we also support schools by delivering high quality digital learning materials through the provision of a set of ‘E-Learning tools’ included within our VLE.

SUMS Online

Online maths & numeracy resources, packaged in SCORM format, for use in your VLE.

400+ i-board interactive activities

These cross curricular interactive activities are ideal for EYFS and KS1 children. There are activities for Numeracy, Literacy, Science, History, Geography, RE and ICT.

To download resources for your school VLE visit http://www.bucksgfl.org.uk/course/view.php?id=430

Our support for E-Learning puts a great deal of emphasis upon supporting colleagues in their professional training.

We aim to achieve this by:

• helping colleagues to develop an understanding of, and a commitment to E-Learning so that they can support its effective implementation, development and application.
• the provision of appropriate CPD and on site training in order to improve the ICT skills and increase the confidence and competence in E-Learning methodologies of the whole educational workforce.

For further information about any aspect of E-Learning please contact Mike Woods (email: mawoods@buckscc.gov.uk or tel: 07941 239537)