Mark Richardson
Learning Technologist, CU Scarborough
ac4250@coventry.ac.uk
I am currently a Learning Technologist for a satellite campus of a major HE institution, having moved from the adult learning and primary school sectors. My role is varied and has allowed me the opportunity to develop my skills in a wide variety of activities which both directly and indirectly support learning on the campus. I am the sole learning technologist for the campus so have had the opportunity to work independently to develop how we utilize technology as a campus, while I also have the expertise of the main campus team to call upon.
One of my main roles is the administration, development and training in the use of the Virtual Learning Environment, Moodle. I have made significant improvements to the quality of the user experience and content of the site, both directly through managing sections and modules, but also indirectly through upskilling tutors and academics.
I have created a full training package for both students and academics which supports them in using the system to enhance learning and ensure active participation and ease of access for students with diverse backgrounds and needs. These training sessions were based on a set of ‘Moodle Competencies’ I created in consultation with a range of stakeholders including the Curriculum Heads and student representatives.
I am also responsible for assisting lecturers select and implement effect assessment activities using the VLE and other technology, enhancing the assessment of learners and ensuring that they are able to access their feedback easily. I also work with colleagues in welfare to ensure that the VLE is tailored to any additional needs students we have through the effective use of fonts, colours and activities, and that the VLE is a safe and effective learning space for everyone.
In my role I am often asked to advise and assist lecturers to find a technological solution to enhance teaching and learning. I have undertaken research and utilised key trends such as gamification and multimedia immersion to find solutions that are on the cutting edge of HE practice and have created online resources to support their use by tutors.
I am particularly passionate about the use of video games in education and have created several games, in conjunction with academics, to meet specific learning outcomes and needs. I am also researching the use of commercial games, such as Kerbal Space Program, in HE settings.
I want to gain CMALT accreditation to formalize and evidence my skills and knowledge while developing them at the same time. I also want to gain experience in incorporating my innovation and ideas with academic thinking and research, with a view to being able to show my professional development.
Mark's CMALT Portfolio 