The Access Network

TeachMeet ASN/SEN @ Access Network

2009-04-16T21:46:00.023+01:00

"Live CPD, enjoyed and engaged with from the comfort of your home"

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Watch the replay of the event by clicking here. Many thanks to the presenters and participants!

Presenters:

Angela Maiers - US Teacher, Literacy Consultant, Author, Speaker

Lisa Stevens - Primary MFL teacher, ADE, eTwinning Ambassador

Oscar Stringer - Expert in digital creativity

Iain Hallahan - Teacher at special school in East Renfrewshire

Bob Hill - Glow Mentor and ICT staff tutor in Dundee

Con Morris - The National CPD Team, Glasgow

Hilery Williams - Dyslexia Support Service, East Lothian.

Access Network - Introduction to Twitter

2009-03-24T11:58:00.007+00:00

Twitter is an easy-to-use web-based networking tool that is being used by thousands of teachers and learning professionals across the world to share ideas, resources, challenges and life in general, through short messages. Last Thursday, three teachers met via Flashmeeting to discuss the use of this tool to educators. The participants were Iain (http://twitter.com/don_iain), David (http://twitter.com/parslad) and 'newbie' Sean (http://twitter.com/edmanager).

If you have never heard of or experienced Twitter, you may wish to watch the 'Twitter in Plain English' video below, produced by commoncraft.

Click here to watch a replay of the Access Network conversation.

Below are links to some Scottish-based learning professionals who are 'on' Twitter.

http://twitter.com/ewanmcintosh (4iP)
http://twitter.com/johnjohnston (North Lanarkshire Council)
http://twitter.com/jconnell (John Connell - Cisco)
http://twitter.com/CPDScotsman (Con Morris - CPD Scotland)
http://twitter.com/laurieod (Laurie O'Donnell - LTS)
http://twitter.com/whereisab (Andrew Brown - LTS)
http://twitter.com/olliebray (Ollie Bray - LTS)
http://twitter.com/joecar (Joe Wilson - SQA
http://twitter.com/gtcs
http://twitter.com/dobelou (Louise McDonough - DoBe)
http://twitter.com/ScotEduBlogs (Latest education blog posts)
http://twitter.com/fkelly (Fearghal Kelly - East Lothian teacher)
http://twitter.com/louisesdad (Martin Brown - LTS)
http://twitter.com/JimbobMorrison (Jim Morrison - residential school teacher)
http://twitter.com/careersscotland
http://twitter.com/mvass (Margaret Vass - Chartered Teacher)
http://twitter.com/derekrobertson (LTS)
http://twitter.com/lynnehorn (Principal Teacher of Languages)
http://twitter.com/tombarrett
http://twitter.com/stuartmeldrum (East Lothian teacher)
http://twitter.com/mrmackenzie (Sinclair McKenzie - Science teacher)
http://twitter.com/jonesieboy (Robert Jones - Maths teacher)

Access Network - Kelly Stone on feminist conceptions of 'problem' boys

2009-03-09T08:53:00.004+00:00

Kelly Stone, Edinburgh educationalist and Doctorate of Education (EdD) student at the University of Edinburgh, led a discussion on conceptions of 'problem' boys: 'poor boys; ‘failing schools, failing boys’; and 'boys will be boys'.

To watch an edited recording of the talk and discussion, click here. You can view the text chat by clicking on 'chat' in the top-right corner of the meeting screen. If you wish to rewind or fast-forward, click on the timeline which scrolls down the screen.

Gender Equality: A Toolkit for Education Staff is available here

LTS's Research summary - gender in education is here

You can hear more about Hawick High School's Girls of Ambition initiative here. Click on 02:14:08 on the timeline to listen to teachers Lorna and Nikki speaking about it.

Access Computing and ICT

2009-03-02T08:51:00.003+00:00

A small discussion took place last week on ICT-related units and courses suitable for pupils working at Access level.

We spoke about the refreshed PC Passport Beginner course, which although at SCQF Level 4, is suitable for some Access pupils. It was felt that the course had been improved; was more up-to-date; and that, within the post-S3 stage of Curriculum for Excellence, it could be embedded across the curriculum. There was a concern, however, that it would not engage some pupils as it didn't cover many of the uses of the internet made by school-age students.

The Digital Literacy course at Access 3 was mentioned as an alternative. This comprises: Digital Communication, Digital Computing, and Digital Numeracy. The course lends itself to using a range of new web tools, and the possibility of greater engagement, though it was felt that limitations on web/network access within schools may limit creativity in developing teaching and learning opportunities.

Access 3 Computing Studies, which although not refreshed for 5 years, still provides some relevant learning opportunities. It is well resourced and has the flexibility to tailor tasks to pupils' interests.

The Small Business Game (formerly The Sports Store Game/Sport4Life) is an educational game where you run your own football franchise store. It was given as an example of an engaging (even competitive) web-based resource which shows the relevance of ICT in providing learning opportunities across the curriculum and in a real-life setting.

Scratch is "a new programming language that makes it easy to create your own interactive stories, animations, games, music, and art; and share your creations on the web." A demonstration on how this free-to-download program offers pupils a 'low-threshhold, high-ceiling' learning opportunity was made at the recent TeachMeet@ScottishBorders event, organised by East Lothian teacher, Stuart Meldrum. Click here to watch a replay of the event, which showcases many inspiring ICT resources, and teaching and learning strategies, shared by ground level educators.

Access Maths online meeting

2009-02-18T15:30:00.002+00:00

An enjoyable and informative discussion took place last week on a variety of matters relating to Access Maths.

We spoke about planning to integrate the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) strands, Mathematics and Numeracy, with existing teaching and learning. There was consensus that home economics and shopping-type activities lend themselves well to 'Maths/Numeracy in the real world'. It was felt that in the short term at least, many would go with the notion that all areas of these strands are presently being covered and that once teachers are comfortable with the initiative, change such as further cross-curricular working and innovative pedagogies may come. It was noted that although a separate strand of CfE, Numeracy is also mapped onto the Mathematics draft outcomes and experiences document. There was interest in whether ASDAN are engaging with CfE.

We discussed target setting (IEPs). In the past, reference had been made to the elaborated 5-14 and North Ayrshire's Level A targets. The ISE 5-14 website was mentioned as a place to go for existing target banks. It was felt that this may be a useful place to go as CfE commences, though we felt that other spaces should be opened up to allow teachers to build and share target banks.

We had it confirmed that a calculator is acceptable for use in an Access 2 NAB (and for derived Access 1 units). There was concern that NABs haven't been updated and that for many pupils with Additional Support Needs, Access 2 (Access 1 derived) units, certain outcomes are too difficult and inaccessible.

Finally, the TeeJay Maths Access 3 textbook was seen as more appropriate than Nelson Thornes' S3-1 and S4-1 for those studying the Access 3 course.

Creating and using digital audio in learning

2009-01-24T11:01:00.005+00:00

Last Thursday afternoon, David spoke about creating digital audio files with, or for, students. He outlined some of the reasons why educators are using open-source (free) software, such as to produce a regular school news report or building an bank of audio for pupils who have problems accessing text. David provided tips on using Audacity software to create mp3 files and on uploading audio files to the internet. He spoke of how to tap into the many free educational audio resources (such as podcasts) which are on the web.

To watch the edited replay of the online meeting click here (it lasts just over 20 minutes). Links from David's talk on creating and using digital audio in learning are below:

Audacity
LAME encoder
Radio Sandaig
Education podcast directory
iTunes
The Levelator
SMARTBoard
Garageband 3
Freesound project
Podsafe music
Edublogs
Podomatic

Access Network free online CPD from January to June 2009

2008-12-03T14:12:00.007+00:00

I am pleased to announce the topics and dates of the 10 Access Network Flashmeetings (online CPD sessions) which will take place between January and June 2009. The Access Network is a free-to-participate 'community of practice' for all teachers of pupils with Additional Support Needs. A Flashmeeting is a free web conference, requiring only a webcam/microphone and broadband internet access (the site must not be blocked by your school/authority).

If you would like to participate, please email me at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk with the relevant session numbers, below, you plan to join. If you would like to book a 1-2-1 practise or get technical advice on getting started with web conferencing, please drop me an email. CPD certificates will be available for colleagues who take part.

8. 22nd January 2009 - creating audio files using Audacity
9. 5th February 2009 - Maths and Modern Foreign Languages discussion
10. 26th February 2009 – Computing/ICT-related units and courses discussion
11. 5th March 2009 - talk on ‘poor boys’; ‘failing schools, failing boys’; and ‘boys will be boys’.
12. 19th March 2009 - using Twitter to build your own ‘personal learning network'
13. 30th April 2009 - Show and Tell. Find-out, or shout-out about innovative learning resources and strategies
14. 14th May 2009 - Science - new strategies and resources
15. 28th May 2009 - Personal Development discussion
16. 11th June 2009 - Surgery. Space for teachers to share problems and solutions relating to curriculum provision

tbc – update on A Curriculum for Excellence.

Access English Flashmeeting

2008-11-14T09:47:00.006+00:00

We welcomed Sean, an Education Manager in Dumfries, to our Access English session. Firstly, we spoke about possible changes following 'A Consultation on the Next Generation of National Qualifications in Scotland'. There was concern at the lack of up-to-date resources suitable for Access English, including exemplar NABs responses and workshops.

We looked at the practicalities of delivering English/Literacy across the curriculum and through activity-based learning. Resources on the LTS and BBC websites were recommended, as well as using graphic novels or comics (even as the basis of a written or spoken Personal Study).

The Access 3 Personal Study (spoken response) was discussed, with examples given of how this has been approached. We looked at whether any types of media would be excluded from being the basis of the study and how a 'show and tell' approach might be effective. Gathering video evidence ('Diary Room' style) for the Access 2 Communication unit was looked at (some schools in England use Flashmeeting for this purpose).

Attendees were encouraged to attend the TeachMeet event in the Borders on 20th February next year, where Ollie Bray will be talking about Graphic Novels.

The Access Network - November update

2008-11-10T10:30:00.004+00:00

The Access Network is a free educator-to-educator CPD resource, which connects teachers of Access units and courses, via regular online web conferences. All you need is: a computer with internet access, headset/speakers (and webcam if you wish), and that http://flashmeeting.e2bn.net/ is not blocked by your network.

There will be an Access Network online meeting during each of the next 3 weeks. Details are below.

· Thursday,13th November from 4.10-5pm - Discussion on anything to do with Access English units and courses

· Thursday, 20th November from 4.10-5pm - Update and discussion on A Curriculum for Excellence (rescheduled from October)

· Thursday, 27th November from 4.10-5pm - Discussion on anything to do with Access Maths units and courses.

If you would like to participate and haven’t already signed-up, or would like to find out more about the network, please contact David at nobled@hillsideschool.co.uk.

Access Network starts off the new session in style

2008-09-10T09:44:00.007+01:00

Two Access Network events have taken place so far during September. Firstly, Dawn from the Glow Team at LTS in Glasgow joined us to give a presentation and answer questions on the Glow portal which is currently being 'rolled out' in parts of Scotland. If you haven't had a chance to find out about Glow or wish to keep up-to-date with developments, you can click here. Additionally you can email David at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk for the web address of a replay of the meeting. The meeting witnessed the first use of a PowerPoint show to compliment a presentation within an Access Network Flashmeeting.

The following day, some members of the network met with Janice and Susan, SQA verifiers for Access 1 and 2, for a shared 'verification development visit'. We found out more about external and internal verification and were able to share materials and receive constructive feedback.

We also discussed:

the possibility of changes to Access following 'The Consultation on the Next Generation of National Qualifications in Scotland'
support packs (with embedded NABs) for Access 2 Personal Development (ten in all!) available from the SQA secure site. Access 3 materials are here
imminent improvements to Access 2 English and ICT courses
that SQA usually focus External Verification on those units with the largest uptake, and that have a March - May completion date
Retrospective Verification is unlikely at present, though the recommendation is to keep your NABs until October (for a May completion date)
taking photos of pupils' creative work so that they can, if they wish, take their work away with them at the summer break
if staff are delivering the same unit in the same centre, they should meet to standardise the evidence requirements, including the amount of support to be permitted during the completion of NABs (this could be recorded on Internal Verification documentation)
that the Oral Communication unit (Access 2 English) may require a recording in the future
that External Verifiers will only verify one unit of a course
that the clear labelling of evidence is important as verifiers may not have direct experience of the unit (this is also the case when submitting amended NABs to the SQA for 'prior moderation'
the skill of setting NABs at the right time, for example if a pupil is 'troubled' or regularly absent
that a 'not accepted' decision on a NAB by verifiers holds back all entries for that unit
if a pupil is entered at Access 2 and only completes one Outcome, you should withdraw them and re-enter for Access 1 accreditation
that it is OK to change the format of NABs (many of the new support packs are in PDF and Word format)
following the current SQA review of Access qualifications, there will soon be no Access 2 units without a NAB (note that there are no NABs for free-standing Access 1 units)
the new SQA Access 1 and 2 website, which has the new Access 1 units, background information and updates etc
that if a teachers provides support for a pupil to complete a NAB, it is good practice to record this somewhere on the NAB
where a pupil has completed Access 3 English in S4 and is staying-on, the Access 3 Communication Core Skill unit may be appropriate
Skillstart versus Skills for Work
the requirement within the Access 2 Language Study unit for a pupil to produce written evidence
awareness that pupils are entered at the correct level. The evidence requirements across Access 2 currently vary; it is unlikely that a pupil will work at Access 2 across all subjects (for example, if they are sporty they may be entered for a couple of Intermediate 2 units in PE)
that a checklist (also outlining the context of the assessment opportunity) must go alongside a recording of evidence for the Access 2 Oral Communication unit.

Many thanks to all who attended this very informative and supportive event. It is hoped that a shared 'verification development visit' will take place yearly.

The next online meeting takes place on Thursday, 18th September when participants will collaborate on a shared response to 'The Consultation on the Next Generation of National Qualifications in Scotland'. To take part, please email David at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk .

Access Network free online CPD up to summer 2009

2008-08-27T13:18:00.000+01:00

I am pleased to announce the topics and dates of all seventeen Access Network Flashmeetings (online CPD sessions) for the next school year. The Access Network is a free-to-participate 'community of practice' for teachers of Access level units and courses. If you would like to participate, please email me at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk with the relevant session numbers you plan to join. If you would like to book a 1-2-1 practise or get technical advice on getting started, please drop me an email. Again, CPD certificates will be available for those who 'come along' during the year.

Online meetings up until summer 2009 (all sessions run on Thursdays from 4-5pm):

28th August 2008 - Flashmeeting trial for new participants
4th September 2008 - Glow Learn (introduction from LTS/Glow staff)
18th September 2008 - work with colleagues to write a response to a national policy proposal (A Consultation on the Next Generation of National Qualifications in Scotland)
2nd October 2008 - recorded session from the Scottish Learning Festival
30th October 2008 (tbc) - update on A Curriculum for Excellence
13th November 2008 - Access English discussion
27th November 2008 - Access Maths discussion
11th December 2008 - creating audio files using Audacity
22nd January 2009 - Access Modern Foreign Languages discussion
5th February 2009 - ICT-related units and courses discussion
26th February 2009 - learn about Action Research
5th March 2009 - talk on 'poor' boys
19th March 2009 - using Twitter to build your own Personal Learning Network
30th April 2009 - 'Show and Tell'. Find-out, or shout-out about relevant learning resources and strategies
14th May 2009 - Access Science - new strategies and resources
28th May 2009 - Access Personal Development (PSE) discussion
11th June 2009 - Access 'surgery'. Space for teachers to share problems and solutions relating to provision of Access units.

Access Science Flashmeeting

2008-06-20T12:05:00.004+01:00

The final Access Network Flashmeeting of the school year saw five Science teachers meet to discuss the wide range of Science units and courses available at Access level.

Colleagues spoke about the options available at Access 1, including delivering 'stand alone' or 'derived' units. We found out about: delivery of Access units alongside Intermediate 1 and Standard Grade; one colleague's experience of running Access Physics; and links with other areas of the curriculum eg wiring a plug (SVS), growing plants, environment projects (both Managing an Environmental Resources - MER). There was recognition of the difficulties in delivering parts of the Access 3 course without a dedicated Science room and a consideration of the wider choice of activities/experiments in the Access 2 Science course (see these Dundee City Council resources on the LTS site).

Each participant spoke about web/ICT resources which they were using to enhance teaching and learning, as well as enabling pupils to complete NABs. The following were recommended:

Thanks to Sinclair McKenzie, a Science teacher in Thurso, who kindly promoted this event via a couple of Science teacher forums.

Access Network - June update

2008-06-07T21:36:00.004+01:00

In recent weeks, Flashmeetings have taken place covering resources such as Honeycomb (from Softease) and the Books for All database of accessible print resources (CALL Scotland/LTS). Both sessions have been recorded; replays of which are available on request.

Learning and Teaching Scotland have been in discussions about suitable times for sessions on 'A Curriculum for Excellence' (ACfE) and Glow Learn. The ACfE session will take place mid-September/early October, with the Glow Learn meeting on from 4-5pm on Thursday, 4th September. The event introducing Twitter will be rescheduled for October. Suggestions for Autumn/Winter 2008 sessions are welcome.

The final Flashmeeting of the school year is for Access Science on Thursday, 19th June (4-5pm). Following this, CPD certificates will be emailed to all Spring/Summer term participants, listing sessions attended.

The face-to-face shared Development Meeting (SQA in attendance) which takes place at Hillside School, Aberdour after the summer (Friday, 5th September - now confirmed) will allow attendees to discuss centre-produced Access 1 and 2 materials with two SQA Access experts (20-30 minute slots). Access 3 materials and NABs can be discussed among Network members. There are still a couple of places available; email David at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk to join in. As this is a shared event, the cost will be minimal.

Finally, if you have not taken part in any Access Network activities this school year but are on the contact list, please click on 'COMMENTS' below and indicate one change in circumstances (within the Network's control) which would enable you to take part during the next session.

'Show and Tell' at The Access Network

2008-05-08T20:32:00.006+01:00

This week's Flashmeeting saw Lisa Stevens and I talk about some teaching tools and strategies.

Lisa spoke of her love of using puppets to encourage pupils to participate in conversations using new language. She showed-off a range of attire; from a spider that you wear on your head, to glove puppets given to the pupils, that bits can be added to as motivation for taking part. She spoke of this approach being effective with reluctant speakers, as the puppet becomes the focus instead of the child.

I introduced Google Earth, a free download which enables a class to 'fly' around the world, looking at towns and cities in great detail. I spoke of its use by Geography and Maths teachers, as well as the benefit of giving context to places which may appear in text-only format, for example in a textbook. I illustrated how it can be used with Google Sketchup (design software), and that apart from being able to zoom in on the planet in 2D, many cities featured 3D buildings and easy links to Wikipedia entries and placemarked photos from Flickr.

Lisa outlined the benefits of eTwinning; a European initiative supported by the British Council, which encourages the linking of schools across the region. She spoke reflectively of some of her experiences of running projects, stressing the cross-curricular opportunities and high levels of support available to those seeking partner schools via the eTwinning website and Ambassadors. Schools have linked together to write stories, produce animations, send emails to each other, and share culture.

Finally, I spoke of the teacher-produced-and-run ScotEduBlogs; a website that pulls-in content from most of the education-related weblogs running in Scotland. Robert Jones, Peter Liddle and John Johnston created this 'aggregator', which pulls in a feed from each website registered with it. The benefit is that educators have a single site which they can visit to get an (often) hourly updated illustration of what is happening in schools across the country; informing and inspiring on policy, practice, and learning. I showed how to link your class/school's site to ScotEduBlogs, explaining that it can lead to a greater audience as well as links with other schools that are publishing online (encouraging classes to comment on each other's work). I encourage teachers to visit the site a couple of times a week.

The Flashmeeting was recorded. Access to the replay is available from myself at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk.

Access Network - May update

2008-05-06T10:43:00.001+01:00

This Thursday (8th) is ‘Show and Tell’ time at the Access Network. There will be some strategies and tools showcased to excite and enthuse! We will be joined from Birmingham by an inspiring teacher, Lisa Stevens, who will talk about using puppets in class to enhance teaching and learning; and eTwinning, an established network helping your class to take part in an international project.

I will talk about some of the many cross-curricular uses of Google Earth, and there will be an introduction on how to access the latest stories, news and reflections from educators beyond your staffroom. Please email me if you haven’t already signed-up for this 4-5pm event.

There is one slot available, if you would like to present (in 10 minutes) something that you have been doing or have seen working well.

Finally, there has been some interest in a June face-to-face Network meeting with SQA Development staff in attendance. Please email me (noble_d@hillsideschool.co.k) if you:

· are interested in attending
· would be willing to facilitate the meeting at your school.

Access Maths discussion

2008-04-24T22:22:00.009+01:00

The first Access Network Flashmeeting since the Easter break saw six teachers from a range of provision meet online to discuss Access 1 to Access 3 Maths resources, strategies and assessment.

Much of the discussion centred on good resources, not all of which are specifically for Access units. Generic PowerPoint, interactive whiteboard and web resources were mentioned as were sections of textbooks and workpacks.

Some participants spoke about delivering their units and courses across the curriculum, making explicit links and real-life contexts. Examples included pupils running a cafeteria; working within SVS and the five experiences; and tying in with independent living programmes eg budgeting finances, searching internet, shopping, and cooking own meals.

There was discussion about some pupils finding it difficult to complete an Access course. Reasons included attendance 'tailing off' and demotivation due to not sitting the Foundation Standard Grade at the end of their studies. Examples were given of all pupils working through the Access 3 course (completing early on in S4) and then working towards the Foundation papers if they wished.

Although the new Maths in Actions books (S31 and S41) are aimed at Access 3/Foundation, there were concerns over the amount of content, lack of relationship between chapters and NABs, and minimum reading age. Some are still using the Using Mathematics packs from the start of Higher Still.

Colleagues spoke about producing their own resources at Access 1/2 and opportunities arose to share. It was mentioned that a secure area may be available in the medium-term for Access Network members to upload/download resources.

Some links:

Education City
BBC Celebdaq
BBC Skillswise - entry level 3
Nelson Thornes - Maths - The Basic Skills (curriculum edition)
TeeJay Maths
ASDAN

The Access Network - onwards into the Summer term

2008-03-20T11:31:00.007+00:00

Six Access Network Flashmeetings have taken place during the Spring term. Despite continuing problems across the country regarding access to Flashmeeting (which is after all an OU tool for educators) there is sufficient interest and participation to sustain the activities. Below are the sessions which will run during the Summer term. Email me at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk if you wish to take part in any of the sessions below, or would like to comment on anything to do with the network.

7 Access Maths – a one hour online discussion (Thursday 24th April, from 4-5pm)
8 'Show and Tell' - come along and be inspired as three teachers showcase a resource or stategy(Thursday 8th May, from 4-5pm) – this meeting will be recorded
9 Access resources - come along and find out about three products that could enhance your teaching and learning (Thursday 22nd May, from 4-5pm) – this meeting will be recorded
10 Building a ‘community of practice’ – find out about Twitter, a simple online tool for teachers to communicate with each other, and how it can be used within the Access Network (Thursday 5th June, from 4-5pm)
11 Access Science – a one hour online discussion (Thursday 19th June, from 4-5pm).

The session on A Curriculum for Excellence will now take place on either Thursday, 29th May or Thursday, 13th June from 4-5pm.

Write-up of Access 1 and 2 Flashmeeting

2008-03-06T21:45:00.005+00:00

Four teachers met on Thursday, 6th March to talk about a variety of matters relating to Access 1 and 2. Much of the discussion centred on the lack of centrally-available or centre-shared materials and NABs at Access 1 and Access 2. There was a feeling that we are 'reinventing the wheel', particularly at Access 1 when constructing NABs from PCs and outcomes. Although there is no national facility for sharing such resources, one school has teachers saving all of their work on a shared network. They are then encouraged to work together to amend these resources year-on-year.

We also spoke about the use of photo, video, and audio evidence, and of check sheets. We shared ideas of where to go for resources and information, noting that there are some on the LTS and SQA websites.

Following the meeting, David contacted Paul Nisbet at CALL (they have previously looked into the sharing of Access resources nationally). He gave this reply:

(There has been) some small progress – we’ve been working with LTS and SCRAN to create a demo database of accessible resources in various formats. It will be done by end March, but I don’t know what the Government plans to do with it once it’s done ... I’ve got a blog (http://pauln.edublogs.org/) where I’ll put up info, and news will also go on the Books for All website (http://www.booksforall.org.uk/).

David has asked the Network (via the new discussion board, click here) if they would be interested in a shared SQA Development meeting. Teachers could bring examples of: centre NABs, pupils' work, schemes of work (cross curricular), and ask about good practice with respect to each of these. The discussion board could also be used for teachers to promote resources that they would be willing to share, and ask the community for help with locating materials. The effectiveness of this, of course, depends upon the number of teachers making use of (and registering for updates from) the board.

Latest News from the Access Network

2008-03-06T11:51:00.005+00:00

A couple of colleagues from the steering group of the new Association of Chartered Teachers have agreed to participate in the 'Find out about the Chartered Teacher programme' Flashmeeting, which takes place on Wednesday, 19th March from 8-9pm. The timing of this session allows for those who have Flashmeeting blocked at school, to join the session from, for instance, home. Remember that having a microphone is enough for you to participate; you can even listen in if you only have speakers. As ever, email me at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk if you wish to take part.

I have set up an Access discussion board in response to the questionnaire that many participants completed back in December. This is another tool that is available to assist communication in the group. I would ask that everyone who has signed up for the Network, even if you haven't made it to a Flashmeeting, has a look at the discussion board. The board will serve three main purposes:

To enable everyone (including those of us who cannot attend online meetings) to share resources, reflections, etc
to facilitate discussion leading on from Flashmeetings
to start or continue discussions between meetings.

To register for the discussion board please follow these steps:

Click on the link on the top right of the Access Network website, or visit http://disc.yourwebapps.com/Indices/240684.html
click on 'Click here to receive daily updates', enter your email address and click on SUBSCRIBE. Please note that you will only receive an update if something has been posted on the board, so your email won't get clogged up!
click on a discussion thread to read/reply.

The session on A Curriculum for Excellence will now take place on either Thursday, 29th May or Thursday, 13th June from 4-5pm. It has been rescheduled as a ministerial announcement on ACfE in relation to National Qualifications (including Access) is imminent. Following this, the ACfE team will put together a comprehensive and up-to-date session for us. A healthy number of teachers have already signed up for this session, and there are places left.

Practical Strategies for Pupils with Dyslexia

2008-02-28T22:00:00.006+00:00

Dr Gavin Reid, formerly senior lecturer in the Department of Educational Studies at Moray House, joined our recent Dyslexia Flashmeeting all the way from a Starbucks store in Kuwait.

Several teachers from around Scotland participated in the event, which consisted of a 40-minute talk on the nature of Dyslexia and some strategies which may assist the Dyslexic child. The final segment of the session saw participants ask questions relating to their own setting.

Gavin made a number of key points:

there is no one strategy that works for all dyslexics; you need to know the child and the child needs to reflect on their own learning
sequencing of tasks is important

dyslexic pupils should overlearn ie "if you don't use it, you lose it"

kinaesthetic learning should be facilitated

reading should be a whole language experience ie related to their lives, encourage 'critical literacy', utilising multimedia.

The talk and the questions moved in to further areas, such as the marking of work (spelling) and homework. If you wish to watch a replay of the 65 minute session, then please email me at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk.

Many thanks to Gavin for joining us during what was evening-time at the start of the Kuwaiti weekend. It was an inspiring talk and a great example of how communication technology can facilitate great quality CPD.

Latest news from the Access Network

2008-02-20T13:03:00.002+00:00

I am pleased to announce that I am now taking bookings for the 'Practical Strategies for Pupils with Dyslexia' online meeting, which will take place on Thursday, 28th February from 4.15-5.15pm. We will hopefully be joined by one of the world's leading experts on Dyslexia, live from Kuwait!

I have approached LTS to secure input from their ACfE team for the rescheduled ACfE update Flashmeeting. This event will take place on Thursday, 13th March from 4-5pm. Again, please email me noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk if you would like to participate. Details of all this terms events are available here.

There was significant interest in the Access ICT meeting which took place last Saturday morning. The time seemed to suit some colleagues, therefore I will probably pencil-in a Saturday AM Flashmeeting at least once per term.

I would appreciate the following support as I plan future meetings. I am looking for a teacher who is working towards Chartered Teacher status via the MTeach route who would be willing to share their experiences. Also, I would love to hear from colleagues who would be willing to 'show and tell' a resource, project or strategy that would be of interest to Access Network participants.

Finally, if any teacher would like a free educators' log-in for Flashmeeting, which would allow you to book web conference space for, for example you, your colleagues, or class, then get in touch and I will forward your request to the relevant Open University staff.

Access English meeting write-up

2008-02-10T13:54:00.003+00:00

This meeting featured two teachers who, having successfully tested Flashmeeting in their schools, were participating in their first online conference.

During the hour-long session it was interesting the extent to which teachers of Access units and pupils could meaningfully share resource ideas and practice, despite working at very different schools.

Below is a list of some of the points of discussion. Below that are some links:

The structure of Access 3 English, particularly ways of encouraging 'reluctant' students to choose a text for their Personal Study
Focusing on non-fiction texts with above pupils
Strategies for facilitating Access 1 - Respond to imaginative texts
Reading programmes for teenage boys and how to find room for this during an Access course
Online books and online supporting material for physical books
Promotion of Access English to pupils whose school friends are working towards their Standard Grade English folio and exams
Creating an exam-like atmosphere when pupils are working on NABs
Using Standard Grade texts with an Access class
Shared reading using, for example, big books
Using sensory stories with Access 2/3 classes and then getting them to create their own which could be 'read' to local nursery, pupils with PMLD etc
Reading texts which have a PSE theme, for example 'There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom' to confront inappropriate behaviour
Downloading stories from the Web and copying on to iPods or mp3 players, including copyright concerns
Teaching staff recording themselves or pupils using mp3 player voice recorder
Texts which appeal to those who are 'on the fringes'
Installing 'text-to-speech' software to assist pupils to access all on-screen text, and to listen as they type
Building stories visually using Clicker 5
Finding out a pupil's reading preferences
Preparing students for the Literary Study NAB
Delivering aspects of the course in a cross-curricular way eg one focus for Social Subjects (Organising and Presenting Information) and Language Study.

Links relating to points, above:

iPod

Inexpensive mp3 players

iTunes music store for audio books

Free audio stories

Library which lends multi-sensory stories for free

Divided City by Theresa Breslin

The Outsiders by S E Hinton

Keith Gray - author of Creepers, and SBT's online writer-in-residence

Holes by Louis Sachar

There's a Boy in the Girl's Bathroom by Louis Sachar

The Lighthouse Keeper series

Oxford Reading Tree

Planet Wobble books

Barrington Stoke - books for dyslexic pupils and struggling readers

Roy the Zebra - online book and IWB activities

Marvel Comics for free (limited time only)

Personal Communication Passport - enables pupils to tell you more about themselves (can be amended for use with all pupils).

Book now for Spring and Summer term Access Network Flashmeetings

2008-01-17T11:24:00.000+00:00

I am pleased to announce the Access Network meetings up to the Summer holidays (see below). Please send an email to noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk with the session numbers that you wish to participate in. You will receive a reminder prior to the meetings taking place and as ever I will try to help out as much as possible with any technical issues.

David

1 FlashMeeting trial - Never participated in an online conference? Want to try out the technology first? This session will help you to get started (Thursday 31st January, from 4- 5pm)

2 Access English – a one hour online discussion (Thursday 7th February, from 4-5pm)

3 Access ICT – a one hour online discussion (Saturday 16th February, from 10-11am) – this meeting will be recorded

4 A Curriculum for Excellence - sit back and listen to our Keynote speaker, then stay, ask questions, and contribute to a discussion with colleagues (Thursday 21st February, from 4-5pm) – this meeting will be recorded

5 Access 1 and 2 – a one hour online discussion (Thursday 6th March, from 4-5pm)

6 Chartered Teacher programme – Two Chartered Teachers (Accreditation route and MTeach route) will be available to discuss the journey to Chartered Teacher status (Wednesday 19th March, from 8-9pm) – this meeting will be recorded

7 Access Maths – a one hour online discussion (Thursday 24th April, from 4-5pm)

8 'Show and Tell' - come along and be inspired as three teachers showcase a resource or stategy (Thursday 8th May, from 4-5pm) – this meeting will be recorded

9 Access resources - come along and find out about three products that could enhance your teaching and learning (Thursday 22nd May, from 4-5pm) – this meeting will be recorded

10 Building a ‘community of practice’ – find out about Twitter, a simple online tool for teachers to communicate with each other, and how it can be used within the Access Network (Thursday 5th June, from 4-5pm)

11 Access Science – a one hour online discussion (Thursday 19th June, from 4-5pm)

12 Practical Strategies for Pupils with Dyslexia – our speaker will outline effective strategies and engage in a Q&A session with participants (ttbc - some time in February or March).

'Show and Tell' FlashMeeting

2007-11-15T22:29:00.000+00:00

A larger number than recent FlashMeetings participated in the 'Show and Tell' session. We heard from Christine and Liz from the Maths department at Wester Hailes Education Centre (WHEC) about the Maths Skills programme that they have put in place to meet the needs of S5 and S6 pupils who have studied at Access level and find it too early or not appropriate to jump to Intermediate 1. It is centered around the Four Capacities; linking learning to the real world. I first heard about this development at the Scottish Support for Learning Awards, at which the judges awarded WHEC first prize. The, albeit stripped down, PowerPoint is available here.

Barry, the Craft instructor at Hillside, introduced us to 'Skills for Work'; an employability (not vocational!) course offered at Access 3 through to Intermediate 2. Students have a range of trades options, with courses delivered either in school, at college, or in partnership. We found out that North Lanarkshire are embracing it, and that it can give some pupils a better focus. The PowerPoint which accompanied Barry's presentation is available here.

David directed us to the database of NQ resources within the LTS website. He showed us how to access these, by subject; explaining that most can be downloaded (and for free). We found out about ScotEdublogs, which is a site that pulls together all the Scottish education websites (weblogs) that are being run and updated by teachers, educationalists, classes and schools. By checking this site regularly, you get a real flavour of what is happening in classrooms across Scotland, with projects being shared, opinions aired, events promoted etc.

Access Network - Half-Term report

2007-10-11T21:01:00.000+01:00

The online version of The Access Network is now two months old. Since the summer, five FlashMeetings have taken place, on: Support for Learning, finding out how an online meeting works, Access Maths, A Curriculum for Excellence, and Commercial products.

Up to the new year, we have meetings on: Access Science, 'Show and Tell', Access 'surgery', Access English, and 'fireside chat'. Please get in touch with me at noble_d@hillsideschool.co.uk if you wish to register to take part.

Funding is almost in place for more headsets and webcams for participants, and every week, more teachers who have registered, manage to ensure that their school or education authority will facilitate their access to meetings