Technology
TLDU works with individuals, programme teams and Schools to explore how technologies can add value to teaching and students' learning. We also contribute to strategic e-learning projects at Sussex and help to evaluate emergent technologies. We work closely with IT Services on Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL).
The university supports a range of e-learning tools. Most modules now use Study Direct, the university's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Study Direct offers a single point of presence for the module where resources such as slides, links to readings, podcasts, links to other sites and video can be made available. It can also support activities such as group work, self-assessment and individual learning. StudyDirect is also the route for students into Turnitin, the text-matching tool available to students to use to improve their written work.
A number of rooms are equipped with Interactive White Boards and/or Echo 360 Lecture Capture facililties; Web Conferencing tools are available and the TurningPoint Personal Response System is very popular with colleagues and students.
Learning and teaching technologies are often featured in the RUSTLE blog and that is a good place to find Sussex colleagues sharing their experiences of using technology in their teaching practice as well as tips for quick and easy things to try yourself.
More information on learning technologies, projects at Sussex and a TEL showcase can be found on the E-Learning website.
There are also a number of Teaching and Learning Development Events related to Innovations and Learning Technologies where you can learn about ways in which you could use these technologies with your own students. Sessions include:
- Introducing Study Direct
- Using an Interactive White Board
- Lecture Capture with Echo360
- Personal Response System
- Podcasting and digital audio
- Using Discussion Forums in Study Direct
- and a Technology Hands-on Drop-in session that provides an informal opportunity to pop in to the TLDU training room and have a go at a selection of learning technologies with help at hand.
TLDU has a range of items that can be loaned to staff and we offer guidance on their use. If you are researching further in this area you might be interested in this Endnote library on E-learning.
If you would like to talk to someone about learning technologies please contact John Davies on j.m.davies@sussex.ac.uk