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Online learning

The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

Please note, as part of a major programme of work we are improving our systems to provide a better experience for all our customers. Because of this you are temporarily unable to make a new application or update your personal details. Access to improved systems will be available from early September 2008, at which time these two services will be reinstated.

What is it?

The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is an online resource created specifically for leaders and managers implementing the new Diplomas, with the aim of enabling partners working in 14-19 consortia to learn with and from each other. Facilities include learning modules and activities, case studies of developing practice, online debates, hotseats (online discussions with experts), discussion forums, downloadable information, interactive tools, and links to other online 14-19 resources, all of which are being regularly added to. The VLE also offers users a central point of contact to network and share best practice and information with each other.

How does it work?

Available now are study modules in collaborative leadership, diversity competence and collaborative quality assurance, with associated resources and activities. Facilities such as hotseats with experts including leaders of successful consortia, 'pathfinder' consortia and DCSF policy makers, have proved popular and will be offered again when possible. Case studies and further resources will be added soon.
Register for the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

From the learning modules in the VLE, you can access NCSL's online communities, such as NCSL in Dialogue, branded under the name talk2learn. Access to this needs a separate registration.

Online learning modules

What are these?

Three new online learning modules have been specifically designed for leaders and managers in 14-19 consortia and those with strategic leadership roles who support them. Our intention is to add new modules as needs emerge.

• Collaborative Leadership module - collaborative leadership is the process by which leaders from different organisations come together for a shared purpose and work in combination to achieve the best outcomes for young people. There are three individual units designed to improve understanding of the concept, to examine the role of a collaborative leader and to put learning into practice.
• Equality and Diversity Competence module - this provides a practical approach to developing the knowledge, skills and attributes that you need as a leader to respond positively to diversity and embed it in your planning, development and practice.
• Collaborative Quality Assurance module - this supports leaders in ensuring that learners have a consistent and high-quality learning experience across the consortium and achieve as well as they can. The unit explores principles and different approaches to Collaborative Quality Assurance.

How does it work?

Once you have registered, you can use the online modules in whatever ways suit you best:

• dipping in whenever you have time or when a particular element will help you meet a challenge/find a solution
• using the various self-assessment tools and learning activities in the modules on your own or with others in your consortium

These online modules are part of a module package and can be supported by workshops.

How do I find out more?

You can register now on www.ncsl.org.uk/14-19 or www.centreforexcellence.org.uk.

Case studies, activities and resources

What are they?

Case studies, activities and resources will shortly be available online to support your development and planning.

• Additional reading, tools and activities are integrated with the three VLE modules above. You can access these now through registering on the VLE.
• There will be consortia-based and local authority partnership-based case studies that illustrate each of the modules. These place the case study in context, outline the approach developed and explore particular themes in more depth. Resources are provided by the consortia and activities prompt you to consider implications and potential for transfer.
• NCSL research case studies will highlight key features and experiences emerging from new collaborative ways of working. They illustrate the development and introduction of structures, systems and cultures and associated issues.
• Frameworks and tools will be available shortly to help you with diagnostics and planning.

How do they work?

These materials are provided as contributions to the development of your own solutions. There are examples illustrating a range of diploma consortia structures and processes, models such as protocols and partnership agreements, tools for diagnostics and planning, activities to shape reflection and additional reading to promote deeper understanding. They could be used by individuals or groups as an input to thinking, discussions and decision-making.

How do I find out more?

Regularly check for new materials on www.ncsl.org.uk/14-19 or www.centreforexcellence.org.uk.

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