Digital-only course design: lessons learned from Sustainable Futures

The EAUC, Environmental Association of Universities and Colleges, is an influential leader worldwide on all things sustainability and climate change. I’ve attended several annual EAUC conferences in person and this year online for the first time. It’s always a big affair with thousands of attendees and … Continue reading...

Digital icebreakers

We’re all familiar with the use of icebreakers in workshops, seminars and meetings. Usually it’s a rapid-fire series of names, disciplines and role titles. They can also take alternative forms like an individual task that is then shared with the group in turn. For some, icebreakers are an essential … Continue reading...

The Civic University Online

A few months ago, I wrote a blogpost on urban spaces and the concept of the civic university. This topic is now reconsidered in the context a pandemic-affected world and has led me to ask some questions: what do … Continue reading...

The Active, Collaborative Cookbook

A collection of ‘recipes’ to try with your students to introduce more active learning activities into your sessions. With a specific focus on digital engagement, this book is a must-have for any lecturer teaching students online! The cookbook was created … Continue reading...

Forums: five ways to get your students talking online

In these ‘unprecedented times’ (yes, I said it) one thing at least is certain…like it or loath it, online teaching is here to stay.

This ‘new normal’ requires us as educators to consider new and innovative ways of engaging students … Continue reading...

Three super low-tech ways to gamify your learning

Adding game design and mechanics to your online content can make it more engaging, motivational and enjoyable. Online educational content is competing with social and entertainment content, and so now is as good a time as any to start adding … Continue reading...

Moving Assessment Online: Key Principles for Inclusion, Pedagogy and Practice

This AdvanceHE webinar was chaired by Patrick Baughan with presenters David Carless, Jess Moody and Jess Stokes discussing different aspects. The format of the webinar was that each presenter gave a 10-15 minute presentation (some followed these guidelines more closely … Continue reading...

Out of the ordinary: Tips to create authentic online teaching and learning

 “The value of authentic activity is not constrained to learning in real-life locations and practice, but that the benefits of authentic activity can be realized through careful design of Web-based learning environments.” – Lombardi  

Well, I can safely say … Continue reading...