eLearning advisor, Information Literacy; Reference Services Team Leader; Education Support Centres Manager

Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology

Presentation

The phrases ‘learning without boundaries’ and learning ‘anytime, any place, anywhere’ are phrases commonly heard in relation to flexible delivery and ICT technology. However, whilst much is promised, what is the reality for students with impairments, deaf students or those whose first language is Te Reo?     We are fortunate to have been awarded a CPIT foundation grant which enables us to spend time on producing learning and teaching material in multi media formats to meet the needs of the diverse range of students enrolled at CPIT.    Previously at CPIT, teaching and learning material has predominantly been available in print format. The aim of the project is to explore the institution’s capability in terms of access and flexible delivery to present information in a way that meets the expectations of today’s learner.     This presentation raises issues faced as we worked within our project ‘Access IT’. We present an enhanced podcast tour of the CPIT library, available in English, NZ sign language and Te Reo. We will discuss the process around making this and offer our insights into the reality of making such delivery everyday educational practice.

Julie has a background as a nurse educator, Information Literacy programme co-ordinator and, more recently, as a member of the eLearning team at CPIT with responsibility for online Information Literacy.  Steve worked in tertiary education in the UK and was trained as an ICT champion. He took the 'Learning to Teach Online' course and has since worked as a Disability Co-ordinator with a special interest in assistive technology.    Jane worked as a reference librarian in the UK until taking up her current position as a reference team leader at CPIT. She is particularly interested in developing ways that will allow students to enjoy the library experience.

Teachers, student support staff, flexible learning teams, librarians and administrators involved in tertiary institutions offering flexible enrolment options.