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Utilising technology in teaching and learning
Over the last decade the internet has become an integral part of teaching and learning.
As technology moves forward apace, it has never been more important to maximise the effective use of digital technology in the classroom to equip our students with 21st century skills.
The SCHOLAR programme, created by Heriot-Watt University, is already an established asset for pupils studying for Higher and Advanced Higher qualifications in Scotland. The rising importance of digital interface with traditional classroom tuition however means SCHOLAR currently has active plans to expand its service to A-level students in the rest of the UK.
Value
SCHOLAR offers a complete portfolio of web-based interactive learning materials that can be utilised in the classroom and at home. Ten years after it was first introduced, it is now one of the largest online learning programmes in the world and the number of subjects continues to grow, with work currently under way on a language programme for Mandarin Chinese.
As Phillip John, Dean of Science and Engineering at the University and Executive Chair of the SCHOLAR Forum, explained: "We now have more than 100,000 registered students indicating that a large proportion of students utilise SCHOLAR as an integral part of their studies.
"Drawing on the University's special expertise in flexible learning, SCHOLAR materials have been specially written to capitalise on web technology and prepare young people for the global challenges ahead. The programme brings together the best innovative learning with tried-and-tested educational approaches to a range of subjects including business and languages; most recently Mandarin and Gaelic. The new generation of mobile devices and e-readers on the horizon will further revolutionise access to information and knowledge within a few years."
Gordon Ford, Director of Education for West Lothian, said: "SCHOLAR is an extremely valuable curriculum support tool which now has a ten year proven track record. It is likely to become invaluable in the years ahead if secondary schools are to maintain breadth of choice in the senior curriculum."
Award-winning
SCHOLAR was recently recognised with a prestigious digital business award for its work in the education sector and the success of its sustainable business model. The Herald Digital Business Awards recognised SCHOLAR as the best in its field for using digital platforms to enhance learning.
Interactive
Each subject is delivered through a learning platform and is rich with activities such as animations, simulations, e-assessment and online reporting to make the interactive courses more engaging. There is also an online discussion board for students to raise queries with fellow students and receive prompt replies from the bank of national tutors. The programme can be particularly helpful in classrooms which cater for pupils at different levels of the same subject as teachers can set work online and allow students to work at their own pace.
Originally developed by Heriot-Watt University to encourage the take up of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects, SCHOLAR is continually working on innovative ways to assist students, including the recent introduction of 3D glasses to bring digital images to life in biology and chemistry.
As Phillip John explained: "When SCHOLAR was first introduced, one of the features most appreciated by science teachers was the inclusion of CHIME molecular computer models to introduce and reinforce important concepts. These are now being changed to Jmol files which allow all the features of CHIME, plus the capability of showing structures in 3D when viewed with suitable glasses.
"SCHOLAR's 3D capability enhances the learning experience even further for students. In some cases, such as the structure of DNA or the active movement of enzymes, the students' ability to visualise in 3D is an essential part of learning."