-66% would like to see software used to speed up
marking process-
-50% welcome online learner quizzes-
More than half (54%) of educators in further education (FE)
colleges list having to work out of office hours among their
biggest challenges in their current role according to a new
report.
Resource issues such as heavy workloads also featured among
the most concerning aspects of their current role for 62% of FE
professionals, according to findings published in
the Unlocking the
Potential of Digital
Learning by YMCA
Awards.
However, educators are clearly enthusiastic about the
potential of digital tools, with 70% welcoming benefits that they
bring to help them meet these types of problems.
Two thirds (66%) are keen to see software used to increase
efficiency and ease the burden of marking, while more than half
(58%) would like greater support in course delivery, helping
transform FE classrooms.
Half (50%) of FE teachers would also like to see digital
learning tools such as online educational quizzes used to help
enhance the learning experience for students.
Commenting on the findings, Adam Williams, YMCA
Awards’ Head of Products and Services,
said: “Easing challenges for FE
professionals and reducing time spent on admin
allows great support and face-to-face time with learners.
Implementing digital tools doesn’t mean dumbing down education or
its delivery. Digital tools allow education providers to keep
standards high while freeing up large amounts
of time that can be spent supporting and engaging directly with
learners”.
44% of institutions admitted having access to digital
tools, but using them infrequently. While 12% reported not using
digital tools at all.
Williams
continued: “Tools
must be well designed and intuitive, so teachers and tutors can
get to grips with them quickly and
efficiently. YMCA Awards has
launched a package of teaching tools designed to meet the needs
expressed by FE college staff to support their daily
routines. Y-Mark is our online
auto-marking digital workbook software, which makes assessment
more efficient, and therefore frees up valuable staff time to
better support learners.”
The Unlocking the
Potential of Digital Learning
Report from international awarding
organisation YMCA
Awards is based on a survey carried
out with staff in 26 FE colleges in May 2017 and accompanies the
launch of a range of digital learning tools designed to address
the needs expressed by FE colleges.
Other free tools included in the YMCA Awards package
include an online assessment platform for online booking and
sitting external examinations, as well as mock assessments to
help prepare learners for their exams.
More details on transforming teaching delivery in FE
colleges can be obtained by visiting the
website, www.ymcaawards.co.uk/promo/transform-your-delivery
ENDS
