Working within a Technology Enhanced Environment

The progression in technology has always interested me and I’m in the fortunate position of working within ISG, LTW at the University of Edinburgh to see how new technologies emerge and change the way we support teaching.

I have been working with Learning Spaces Technology for eight years now progressing from AV/IT Service Team Technician to Service Team Supervisor.

Within that time I have witnessed teaching spaces evolve from having a roller screen, overhead and carousel projectors with wired remote controls, a chalky blackboard and no sound reinforcement – to a completely integrated audio visual system. This integrated system features 4k resolution projectors and LCD touch screen, a dedicated PC, multimedia players, document cameras, inputs for user devices wired and wireless, system sound reinforcement and multiple radio microphones, with system capabilities of recording and live streaming all controlled by a button or touch panel… incredible! The lecturer now has a way of engaging with the students by producing multimedia and blended learning – quite literally “flipping the classroom”.

Technology has come a long way in such a short space of time and I am impressed by how well we all have managed to keep up and adapt. I understand that rapid progress is key to the student experience and enhances learning.

My experience has always been in physical learning spaces but recently I have been getting a taste for virtual learning environments. I believe this is due to my interest in keeping up with the progression of technologies and their role within teaching. This is where I think the university really can enhance learning for the students and further improve on the student experience.

I’m looking forward to utilizing my digital skills and learn new skills within technology enhanced learning online.