E-learning Resources

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study to report on the use of audio feedback in a Level 2 module in the School of Process, Environmental and Materials Engineering. Detailed group feedback was provided to students and posted on the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), accompanied with an Excel document providing detailed worked solutions to the coursework questions.

Author(s): Dr Antonia Borissova

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/100510-antonia-borissova-jisc.p…
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study to investigate the use of audio feedback for students studying digital signal processing. The methods used and outcomes of this exploratory project are discussed and a view of the role of audio in developing effective learning, assessment and feedback strategies is offered.

Author(s): Mark Childs, Mark Oliver, Stephen Bate

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/coventry_childs_JISC_audio.doc
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study. Talking is an important means of communication in design education for the progression of product design development. Most of the time, oral feedback occurs as a result of the same reoccurring problems and issues experienced by large numbers of students at strategic points in the product development phase. The use of ‘stimulated recall’ is used in this audio feedback project as audio replay for product design students who encounter problems with aspects of the design development process. This enables them to analyse...(more)

Author(s): Lisa-Dionne Morris

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/100510-lisa-dionne-jisc.pdf
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study. An audio feedback trial was conducted to give coursework feedback to MSc Students on the Functional Joint Replacement Technology module in the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Leeds. The trial investigated the use of audio feedback as a way to save time in assessment as well personalising the response given to students. Feedback was provided using an Edirol R-09HR MP3 Sound Recorder.

Author(s): Dr Todd D. Stewart

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/100510-todd-stewart-jisc.pdf
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This Engineering Subject Centre case study looks at the ways in which the Seeing and Touching Structural Concepts website and Blackboard has been used to enhance the way that students learn about structural concepts.

Author(s): Tianjian Ji, Adrian Bell

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/scholarart/tianjian-ji-case-stu…

This Engineering Subject Centre Mini-Project Report is about a Computer Assisted Assessment (CAA) programme trialled at the University of Hertfordshire. The report discusses how the programme developed, delivered, collected, marked and provided feedback for the weekly-assessed tasks (wats) of individual students and how this influenced student success.

Author(s): Mark Russell, Peter Bullen

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/scholarart/wats_tutorialsheetsw…

This report presents the outcomes from a Mini-Project on "Portable Learning and Assessment - Towards Ubiquitous Education" funded by the Engineering Subject Centre. The report includes a case study on the Mini-Project (published as a chapter in Mobile Learning: A Handbook for Educators and Trainers by Kukulska-Hulme, A. and Traxler, J. 2005); a guide for those considering using PDAs; a guide suggesting uses of PDAs with engineering students with disabilities.

Author(s): Jon Trinder, Jane Magill, Scott Roy

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/miniproject/pda.pdf

This case study has been developed as part of the Engineering Subject Centre Teaching Awards 2004-2005, from data gathered through a demonstration of the teaching and learning materials available, interviews with the tutor, student questionnaires and focus group.

This case study describes the use of the BlackBoard Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) to deliver course content and assements to students of Electrical and Electronic Engineering or Communication Engineering.

Author(s): Phil Barker, Prof. John Fothergill

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/optical.pdf

Awards:
HE Academy Engineering Subject Centre Teaching Awards - Finalist

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study to report on the use of audio feedback. Formative audio feedback on student group presentations, which had been recorded contemporaneously, was made available via podcasts. The feedback was intended to provide constructive criticism of students work to date towards assessed group reports due three days later.

Author(s): Bob Cochrane

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/100510-bob-cochrane-jisc.pdf
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This is a collation of Engineering Subject Centre/JISC audio mini-project case studies collected by project coordinator Anthea Connolly from the University of Leeds. The individual case studies are also available separately with detailed descriptions of the contents. The project at the University of Leeds looked at alternative ways of delivering feedback to students, using audio.

Author(s): Dr Anthea Connolly

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/100510-leeds-case-studies-jisc.…
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This report briefly discusses potential uses for Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) for engineering students, especially those with a disability. The PDA is a small, portable handheld computer that typically comes equipped with diary and personal organiser tools. A PDA normally has the ability to synchronise and exchange data with a desktop computer and can be customised by installing extra applications, thus enabling the PDA to be utilised in many ways.

Author(s): Jon Tinder

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/resources/uses-of-pdas-for-engineering-st…

This document outlines the design of a computer-based maths toolbox
for engineering students, resulting from Mini-Project funding awarded by the Engineering Subject Centre. The paper discusses guidelines for effectively collating and integrating learning, support, application, communication and diagnostic tools, to produce a "Mathematics Gateway" for engineering students. Consideration is also given to effective ways of integrating the gateway into engineering curricula, and to creating a local (e.g. departmental) identity for access and use of the gateway over the internet by others...(more)

Author(s): Esat Alpay, Spyridon D. Masouros

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/maths-gateway.pdf

This case study commissioned by the Engineering Subject Centre discusses work in the University of Sheffield, which focuses on overcoming poor study practices, and hence progress, of first year students. The department wanted incentives to encourage regular study patterns and mechanisms to enable effective monitoring of progress by staff to identify and support struggling students. The department also wanted a test case on which to evaluate the potential of VLE technology for enhancing teaching delivery.

Author(s): J. A. Rossiter, D. Rossiter

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/awards/web_delivery.pdf

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study to investigate the use of audio in addition to other methods for supporting and engaging students in the learning process. This was particularly important as the elective module was delivered online to students who were reading different degrees. Audio intervention was used in two ways – for both feedback on summative and formative pieces of assessed work.

Author(s): Lydia Lau

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/100510-lydia-lau-jisc.pdf
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study. Results from the National Student Survey (NSS) routinely highlight student dissatisfaction with coursework feedback. Improving feedback to students is thus a priority for the School and opportunities to achieve this are regularly discussed and debated both at Learning and Teaching Board meetings and at regular School away days. It was therefore considered to be a timely opportunity to trial the use of audio feedback and to find out whether it could improve the student experience of feedback. We also wanted to find out if posting...(more)

Author(s): Nigel Horan

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/100510-nigel-horan-jisc.pdf
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study. A trial using audio recordings to provide five to ten minute summaries of the key points from single lectures was conducted in PEME1020 – Chemical Science for Engineers - from the Chemical and Materials Engineering undergraduate degree course (BEng and MEng). This is a first year, compulsory 10 credit module, consisting of a class of 130 registered students. The audio summaries were posted in MP3 and MP4 format on the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and students were invited to listen. The students on the module were...(more)

Author(s): Prof. Simon Biggs

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/100510-simon-biggs-jisc.pdf
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

This is an Engineering Subject Centre/JISC mini-project case study to investigate the use of audio assessment and feedback for Industrial and Product Design students. The methods used and outcomes of this exploratory project are discussed and a view of the role of audio in developing effective learning, assessment and feedback strategies is offered.

Author(s): Rhoda Trimingham, Pete Simmons

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/casestudytrimmingham_v2_formatt…
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/an/mini_projects/jisc-audio-project-overv… (JISC audio mini-projects)

Using electronic voting systems to support student learning in engineering was a free seminar from the Engineering Subject Centre's online seminar series that ran on November 12th, 2008. The event explored the theory and successful application of Electronic Voting Systems and Personal Response Systems (EVS/PRS) within education. This web page provides a complete recording of the session, two videocast recordings featuring the views of the presenters and access to an online networking and discussion tool.

Author(s): , Prof. Jim Boyle

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/events/using-electronic-voting-systems-to…

The EASEIT-Eng project assisted engineering academics in selecting computer-based learning (CBL) material, for use in their teaching. The project:
a) established a standardised evaluation method for engineering CBL material
b) evaluated a wide range of existing engineering CBL material
c) provided implementation-based, independent case studies
d) developed a freely available web-delivered database of software evaluations.

Author(s): EASEIT-Eng Project team (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.easeit-eng.ac.uk/

The Higher Education Academy formed a group to look at learning environments and pedagogy (LEAP). They commissioned 14 case studies from 7 universities to look at how different pedagogies are being employed across different virtual learning environments (VLEs)- namely BlackBoard, WebCT and Lotus Notes. It is hoped that the case studies will help teachers to choose successful teaching strategies when using VLEs and will inform wider research into how VLEs can deliver pedagogically sound learning and teaching.

Author(s): Higher Education Academy (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.heacademy.ac.uk/

This is a summary of the results of the Engineering Subject Centre's scoping survey, which focussed on the engineering community's engagement with learning technologies. The document covers the respondent's role; electronic learning resources; VLEs; pedagogical aspects of learning technologies; and Engineering Subject Centre resources.

Author(s): Rob Pearce, Jane Pritchard

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/scholarart/learning-techologies…

This two-page case study examines the use of diagnostic testing in the biosciences, the issues raised being similar to those for engineering students. A paper-based diagnostic test of mathematical skills, presented to Stage 1 undergraduates, showed that entrants encounter difficulties with some of the basic mathematical concepts that are essential if students are to successfully complete a programme of study within the biosciences. Students reacted favourably towards a number of computer-based learning materials aimed at supporting development of their basic mathematical skills through self-directed...(more)

Author(s): Dr Vicki Tariq

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/tari…

Based on an interview with Neville Dean, this one page case study describes a computer-based diagnostic testing procedure. The Department of Mathematics, Physics and Electronics (School of Applied Sciences Anglia Polytechnic, Cambridge) uses the DIAGNOSYS computer aided assessment system to test the mathematical knowledge of primarily foundation year students.

Author(s): Dr Bjoern Hassler, Dr Neville Dean

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/dean…

Based on an interview with Martin Greenhow, Department of Mathematics, this one page case study describes a diagnostic testing procedure. The diagnostic tests are of Computer Aided Assessment (CAA) type, delivered on-screen with full animation at the testing level required (post-GCSE or post A-Level). 200 students are involved on programmes ranging from financial computing to mathematics.

Author(s): Dr Martin Greenhow

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/gree…

Based on an interview with Mike Barry, of the Department of Engineering Mathematics at the University of Bristol, this one-page case study describes a diagnostic testing procedure which uses computer aided assessment. The tests are set from a large bank of multiple choice questions using the 'TAL' (Teach and Learn) computer system developed at the University of Bristol. The topics covered include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, functions, calculus and probability. A 'leave unanswered' option is provided and negative marking used to discourage guessing. The test is web-based, has been run with...(more)

Author(s): Dr Richard Atkinson, Dr Mike Barry

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/barr…

The DIAGNOSYS computer aided assessment system for diagnostic testing has been used by the Department of Engineering Mathematics, now the School of Mechanical and Systems Engineering, since 1993. By 1996 there were five departments involved in using the software. Based on an interview with John Appleby, the administering lecturer and a student questionnaire this one page case study examines the procedure, results and student responses to the diagnostic testing process.

Author(s): Ms Christine Hirst, Dr John Appleby

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/appl…

The teaching of mathematics and statistics forms part of a first year module, Scientific Inquiry, which is taken by students on undergraduate science courses. The module aims to develop a range of skills including mathematical, statistical and IT skills. The range of mathematical backgrounds amongst the students is accommodated through a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), supporting student-centred learning. This Case Study describes the philosophy of the module and how this is reflected in its structure, delivery, available materials and use of self-assessment.

Author(s): Dr Graham Currell, Dr Tony Dowman

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/curr…

The introduction of the graphics calculator has provided the fourth year students taking Science with Management Studies with an interactive learning tool. This case study reviews its introduction into the course 'Discrete and Continuous Models' at Napier University.

Author(s): Diana Mackie

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/mack…

As Engineering and Science Departments face the problem of inadequate mathematical preparation by students, many are setting in place networks of support-based activities. 'Maths Support for Students', commissioned and published by the LTSN MathsTEAM Project draws together a collection of case studies from across the UK providing examples of how academics are providing maths support for students.

Author(s): LTSN MathsTEAM (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.engsc.ac.uk/downloads/mathsteam/student_support.pdf

The Mathematics Department at Keele University has pioneered the use of diagnostic testing linked to Computer-Based Learning (CBL) self study modules for students entering Principal Mathematics. In particular, the department has invested in the use of Mathwise modules to provide support materials. Recent advances in software have produced a new generation of courseware but there is considerable inertia in changing to such new material without some evidence that students will benefit. This case study considers this problem and considers how diagnostic testing can be used to decide when to update...(more)

Author(s): Douglas Quinney

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/quin…

This case study details Glasgow Caledonian University's pre-entry Summer School, which has operated on the same general principles since 1991. It helps prepare students for entry into programmes for which they have a conditional offer. It features tailored instruction, flexible attendance and delivery and continuous supportive feedback.

Author(s): Jean Cook

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/cook…

This Accelerating Change in Built Environment Education (ACBEE) case study, on the CEBE website, describes 'The European Challenge', which is a collaborative international project linking institutions, tutors and students from across Europe with commercial firms. The 'Challenge' is a project based on a contemporary and strategic real estate problem: the re-location of the European Headquarters of a US based corporation. The project utilises a virtual learning environment to manage pan European teams of students.

Author(s): Nick Nunnington

URL(s):
 • http://www.cebe.heacademy.ac.uk/learning/acbee/read_abstract?ide…

This article discusses multi-user virtual environments (MUVEs) in education. It looks in particular at the work of Ed Dieterle from Harvard University and his involvement with an educational MUVE called the River City Project. The article was written for Campus Technology, February 26, 2007. Campus Technology is a monthly publication focusing on the use of technology across the higher education sector.

Author(s): Joseph C. Panettieri

URL(s):
 •  http://campustechnology.com/articles/2006/12/advanced-teaching-…

The ALERT (Accessibility in Learning Environments and Related Technologies) project website contains Guidelines on improving provision for disabled students through use of a VLE (Virtual Learning Environment). The guidelines have been developed over two years as part of the HEFCE funded Strand 2 ALERT project and are based on a series of case studies with staff and disabled students. Themed guidelines include :
Introduction to ALERT guidelines
Holistic use of a VLE
Delivery of learning support materials through a VLE
Asynchronous discussion through a VLE
Synchronous discussion...(more)

Author(s): HEFCE (Corporate Author), Durham University (Corporate Author), Bournemouth University (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.dur.ac.uk/alert/guidelines.htm

ALT-J is an international peer-reviewed journal published three times each year by Routledge. It is devoted to research and good practice in the use of learning technologies within higher education and contains articles, review articles, reviews and short notes. Back issues of ALT-J are also available in an online repository established under the JISC-funded wALTer project.

URL(s):
 • http://www.alt.ac.uk/alt_j.html

CALGroup was one of the first projects funded by the Teaching and Learning Technology Programme to develop course material for undergraduate students. The consortium based at Loughborough University produced a large number of modules covering a topics in a range of Engineering disciplines, including Basic Electricity; Basic Electronics; Control; Data Communications; Design; Fluid Mechanics; Manufacturing Processes & Materials; Manufacturing Management & Robotics; Mathematics Help; Particle Dynamics.

The modules are provided on a CD-ROM, which contains an installation program...(more)

Author(s): Calgroup project team (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.lboro.ac.uk/calgroup

This web page from Edutools enables comparisons to be made of the Content Management System (CMS) products most commonly used in further and higher education (for example, Moodle, Blackboard, ANGEL, and other Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs)). Up to ten products can be selected and the resulting comparison can be exported to an Excel spreadsheet or viewed online. There are links from various sections of the product evalution to a discussion forum for users of the different learning platforms. A tool is also available for those wanting to make a final decision about selecting a product. ...(more)

Author(s): WCET (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.edutools.info/item_list.jsp?pj=4

Based on an interview with Doug Quinney, Department of Mathematics at Keele University, this one-page case study describes a diagnostic testing procedure using computer aided assessment. All students are assessed via 20 computer-based multiple-choice questions (MCQ). These questions are selected at random from a large question bank, developed jointly by Nottingham and Keele University. The main objective is to provide a profile of each student’s mathematical abilities. Each question tests a number of different skills simultaneously and hence contributes to an assessment of the different...(more)

Author(s): Dr Richard Attkinson, Dr Doug Quinney

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/quin…

This JISC-funded project proposed the development, implementation and use of a testbed to improve the teaching and learning of students partaking in global team-based design projects and combines the use of digital libraries with virtual design studios.

The project team are the Center for Design Research, Stanford University (US) and the department of Design Manufacture and Engineering Management (DMEM), Strathclyde (UK).

By the end of the project it is expected that the methods and technology will be embedded into the teaching of engineers in the two institutions, who between...(more)

Author(s): Didet Project team (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.didet.ac.uk/

E-moderators are teachers and trainers who work with learners online. E-Moderating is a user's guide to working in the virtual environment, including: The why, what and how of e-moderating; Becoming a good e-moderator; The benefits to learners of e-moderating; Training to become an effective e-moderator. It also features a collection of resources for practitioners. This second edition features new material on the latest research and practice in the field, fresh case studies and practitioners resources, and a new chapter on future e-learning scenarios. The book is also accompanied by a website...(more)

Author(s): Gilly Salmon

URL(s):
 • http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/0415335442/qid%3D113145…

This guide updates the 2004 JISC guide, Effective Practice with e-Learning, and draws on outcomes from the Design for Learning and Technology Enhanced Learning Environments themes of the JISC e-Learning Programme. It is aimed at those in further and higher education, both experienced practitioners and those new to the field. Ten new case studies "offer a choice of pathways reflecting the diversity of approaches taken by practitioners in current UK practice". This web page contains download options for the guide and links to other related resources.

Author(s): JISC (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.jisc.ac.uk/practice

This JISC guide is aimed at practitioners working in further and higher education institutions, as well as tutors in involved in community learning. The guide aims to establish ways of embedding e-learning into everyday practices. It draws on research commissioned by the JISC e-learning programme to link theory to practice to develop a shared understanding of how, when and where to apply e-learning to the best advantage of the learners. Case studies of good practice are also included on the website.

Author(s): JISC (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.jisc.ac.uk/media/documents/publications/effectiveprac…

This is a web page about Electronic Voting Systems (EVS) from Re-Engineering Assessment Practices in Scottish Higher Education (reap.ac.uk). It includes links to training material, evaluation reports, evaluation instruments, papers, books, dvds and websites.

Author(s): Martin Hawksey

URL(s):
 • http://www.reap.ac.uk/resourcesEVS.html

This web page is the entry point for Steve Draper's web pages on Electronic Voting Systems (EVS) for use in lectures and interactive lectures. It provides further information about EVS, interactive lectures and pedagogy.

Author(s): Steve Draper

URL(s):
 • http://www.psy.gla.ac.uk/~steve/ilig/

This is a JISC briefing paper about Game-based learning (GBL). GBL or 'serious games' refers to software applications using games for learning. The briefing paper aims to provide an overview of GBL for practitioners, senior managers and policy makers.

Author(s): JISC (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.jisc.ac.uk/publications/publications/pub_gamebasedlea…

This is a report on the outcomes of Phase 1 of the Learner Experiences of e-learning studies commissioned under the JISC e-learning programme. The report may be of relevance to those interested in how learners use technology. The printed report contains a CD-Rom of supplementary resources; the electronic versions are available to download from the web page.

Author(s): JISC (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.jisc.ac.uk/whatwedo/programmes/elearning_pedagogy/int…

This guide is aimed at practitioners and managers in further and higher education and adult and community learning. The guide examines the challenges and benefits of the use of six mobile devices and considers the findings of reports commissioned through the e-Learning and Innovation strand. Ten case studies are included to illustrate the use and the impact of the technologies from three perspectives: learner, practitioner and institution.

Author(s): JISC (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.jisc.ac.uk/eli_practice.html

JISc works with universities and colleges to utitlise innovative digital technologies. It provides:

The JANET network
Access to electronic resources
New environments for learning, teaching and research
Guidance on institutional change
Advisory and consultancy services
Regional support centres

Author(s): JISC (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.jisc.ac.uk/

The Journal of Computer Assisted Learning is a quarterly, peer-reviewed, international journal covering uses of information and communication technology to support learning and knowledge exchange. It aims to provide a medium for communication between researchers and the practitioners and to foster collaborative research. It is a source of material for research students in areas such as collaborative learning, knowledge engineering, open, distance and networked learning, developmental psychology and evaluation.

URL(s):
 • http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/journal.asp?ref=0266-4909&sit…

The Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication JCMC 13(1) was the last issue that to appear on the first listed website. Starting in January 2008, new issues have been published only on the Synergy site. The journal's format will continue to be open access, according to the International Communication Association. Also, on January 1, 2008, Kevin Wright of the University of Oklahoma assumed editorial responsibility for the journal.

URL(s):
 • http://jcmc.indiana.edu/
 • http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/%28ISSN%291083-61…

MATLAB is the chosen simulation environment that is used throughout the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde. This case study commissioned by the mathcentre describes how MATLAB is used by the students at several levels. It is used in earlier years as an 'Engineering' calculator that is useful for scientific calculations and visualisation particularly for complex analysis. As the course develops MATLAB becomes invaluable for investigating the time-frequency characterisation of signals and systems. MATLAB also gives the students an environment that...(more)

Author(s): Dr John Soraghan

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/sora…

This case study demonstrates how EXCEL has been used to provide simulation facilities in support of teaching control to engineers. This dictates a sampled data approach which fits in naturally with digital implementation of control. The technique also allows students to explore the affects of non-linearities in systems such as control signal saturation. It provides a ‘hands-on’ dimension which students find valuable. The approach is capable of use with other dynamic systems and is not restricted to teaching control.

Author(s): Malcolm Henry

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/henr…

Quantum theory is a key part of the chemical and physical sciences. Traditionally, the teaching of quantum theory has relied heavily on the use of calculus to solve the Schrödinger equation for a limited number of special cases. This approach is not suitable for students who are weak in mathematics, for example, many students who are majoring in biochemistry, biological sciences, etc. This case study describes an approach based on approximate numerical solutions and graphical descriptions of the Schrödinger equation to develop a qualitative appreciation of quantum mechanics in an Australian...(more)

Author(s): Dr Kieran Lim

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/lim.…

The problem of declining mathematical skills and appetite amongst university entrants is well known. In order to soften the impact that this makes on student recruitment and retention in the School of Electronics at the University of Glamorgan, it became necessary to explore a 'minimal-math' or 'engineering-first' teaching approach. MATLAB-based graphical user interfaces, simulations and animations are employed to give students an unclouded insight into the engineering concept and the underlying physical considerations, and a clear appreciation of the interplay of the parameters involved. This...(more)

Author(s): Dr Ifiok Otung

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/otun…

These two reviews cover the use of MATHWISE Pre-Calculus and CALMAT.MATHWISE Pre-Calculus is used by a number of first year students at City University within their General Mathematics module. The use of the MATHWISE package is intended to provide lecture support, offer an interactive learning option and improve student understanding. CALMAT plays an important role within the syllabus for the Mathematics 1 module at the University of Huddersfield with over 100 students following the course. CALMAT modules are related to each tutorial based in computer laboratories.

Author(s): Sanowar Khan, Dexter Booth

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/khan…

Mathwise has been developed by the UK Mathematics Courseware Consortium (UKMCC), a group consisting of academic authors from over 20 UK universities. Funded by the Teaching and Learning Technology Programme (TLTP) Mathwise has developed 52 modules, a courseware management system (enabling individual sites to tailor Mathwise to their specific needs) and a Mathwise Authors Kit, a tool which enables academics to develop new material.

The mathmatics modules include Real numbers and Algebra; Inequalities; Trig Functions; Euclidean Geometry; Concepts in Integration; Complex Numbers; Linear...(more)

Author(s): Mathwise consortium (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.bham.ac.uk/mathwise/

This book provides an introduction to mobile learning and covers the technologies involved, their applications and the effects on teaching and learning. The mobile devices discussed are handheld computers, smartphones and PDAs. The book considers usability, accessibility, evaluation and effectiveness. It uses case studies from researchers and practitioners, and is chiefly aimed at professionals in higher and further education.

Author(s): Agnes Kukulska-Hulme, John Traxler

URL(s):
 • http://www.amazon.co.uk/Mobile-Learning-Handbook-Educators-Train…

This web page from the Second Life Education Wiki provides information about Second Life for educators and academics. Second Life is an example of a Multi-User Virtual Environment (MUVE). The Wiki is produced by SimTeach: Information and Community for Educators using Multi-User Virtual Environments.

Note to user: always verify information from a wiki.

Author(s): SimTeach (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.simteach.com/wiki/index.php?title=Second_Life_Educati…

This case study describes a course aimed at providing chemical engineering students with an understanding of the fundamental classes of equations which occur in chemical engineering, the mathematical basis of their numerical solution methods and the basic methods of implementing these in a high level computing language. The course thus integrates elements of both conceptual and practical mathematics and computing.

Author(s): Prof. Jack Ponton, Dr Bill Morton

URL(s):
 • http://www.mathcentre.ac.uk/resources/casestudies/mathsteam/pont…

The ReSET Project (Rejuvenation of Science, Engineering and Technology related TLTP and other legacy material) took computer-based learning resources such as TLTP and other legacy material and used them as the basis for producing high quality, copyright-cleared, standards-compliant, reusable learning objects suitable for use by teachers on HNC, HND and Foundation Degree programmes. These resources may then be used in the learning environments (VLEs) of the partner institutions and made available through the JORUM repository. The Engineering Subject Centre and UK Centre for Materials Education...(more)

Author(s): ReSET Project (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://esdstudent.gcal.ac.uk/reset/

SOLE was a project to undertake an independent evaluation of students' usage of virtual learning environments (VLEs) in higher and further education and draw out the effectiveness of VLEs in supporting different subject areas, different national agendas (such as that of widening participation) and student learning in general.

It was funded by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) via the Learning and Teaching Support Network (LTSN) Tranche 2 initiative and the Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) and hosted at the Institute for Learning and Research Technology,...(more)

Author(s): SOLE project team (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://sole.ilrt.bris.ac.uk

This is the TALENT website hosted by the University of Leicester. The original Project was funded under the Teaching and Learning Technologies Programme (TLTP) Phase 3. It was a collaboration project between the Universities of Canterbury Christchurch, Kent, Leicester and Northampton and its aim was to work with a small number of HE institutions to disseminate good practice in learning and teaching using various learning technologies. One of the deliverables of the project was the Book of TALENT, available on the website. Web links are updated to give currency to the project outcomes.

Author(s): Talent project team (Corporate Author)

URL(s):
 • http://www.le.ac.uk/TALENT/

This book is aimed at learning technology practitioners. It includes accounts and case studies about the development, implementation and evaluation of learning technologies. It discusses the tools being used by practitioners, and considers the role of the student and educator.

Author(s): John O'Donoghue (editor) et al.

URL(s):
 • http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1591409624/202-2452268-007903…

ALT is a professional and scholarly association which seeks to bring together all those with an interest in the use of learning technology.

ALT aims to:
a)promote good practice in the use of learning technology in education and industry;
b)represent the members in areas of policy;
c)facilitate collaboration between practitioners, researchers, and policy makers.

The ALT website provides further information about the organisation including membership details, publications and events.

URL(s):
 • http://www.alt.ac.uk/

This is the website of the Visual Learning Lab based at the University of Nottingham, a CETL which aimed to build on existing visual learning practices in a range of schools across the university and to extend these across all university departments within the university. Visual learning covers the following areas:
interactive video conferencing
virtual reality
workplace simulations
3-D animation
visual representations of complex concepts to enhance student learning
mobile technologies.
Funding has now ceased, but the website and resources remain available....(more)

URL(s):
 • http://www.visuallearninglab.ac.uk/