One student, who bravely disclosed her learning difficulties, gave great suggestions how we could make her life easier; from creating shorter segments of learning through to producing a list of key concepts, sent in advance. We also talked about the importance of addressing the digital divide, and of students having a technical profile as well as an academic profile, to keep track of whether they consistently had the appropriate access to technology.
The conference was a great opportunity to recognise our amazing academics on the front line, serving our students and providing a rich learning experience. There was lots of excitement with ‘table hopping’ during speed networking sessions, courtesy of an innovative Remo Platform that allowed each of us to meet many others at the conference.
Pathway is an important route to higher education, providing opportunities to students who may not otherwise have them. We prepare students personally and professionally for their careers, degree level study and to tackle a changing world. We create independent learners and critical thinkers, which is achieved by delivering student-centred education. We foster an active learning environment, where students are experientially involved in the ‘doing’, moving away from transmissive learning.
You had to be there to witness it, but hopefully you have gained some sense of the atmosphere across the two days, which still lingers today. Special thanks to the Conference Committee and all the volunteers who organised and delivered the conference.
Left to right: Professor Mick Healey, Saad Qureshi, Louisa Dale