Session 61: Teaching methods: 2
| Convenor | Malcolm Williams |
| Title | METAL Project |
| Abstract | Mathematics for Economics: enhancing Teaching and Learning The issue of heterogeneous mathematical skills, coupled with an increasing focus on interactive, student-focussed and inclusive learning has been addressed by the METAL project, a HEFCE funded initiative that enhances the teaching and learning experience of students studying mathematics as part of an economics degree programme. The project resources include an online question bank, 50 video units and 10 teaching and learning guides that present innovative and interactive approaches to teaching mathematical concepts to economics students. All resources are presented on a project website to facilitate distance learning and to foster students’ autonomy and ownership of the learning process. |
| Rebecca Taylor, Nottingham Trent University | |
| Title | A Virtual Learning Environment For Multi Level Modelling |
| Abstract | We will give an overview of the training activities carried out under the ESRC-funded NCRM node: Learning Environment for Multilevel Methodology and Applications (LEMMA). Activities include the development of a virtual learning environment (VLE) which contains tutorials, practical exercises, quizzes and videos. One feature of the VLE is that learners' background information, responses to quizzes and web statistics on patterns of use will be analysed to inform future training strategies. |
| Jon Rabash, Centre for Multilevel Modelling MLwin University of Bristol | |
| Title | Using Field Trips to teach Research Methods. |
| Abstract | The University of Plymouth runs a BSc Social Research minor pathway. In 2007/08 a pilot research based field trip was developed to enhance the students learning experiences and provide valuable employment related awareness. This session will outline the rationale for the inclusion of a field trip in the curriculum, the key planning and development phases, and an evaluation based on both student and staff experiences. It will also consider the opportunities of developing future field trips both within the Social Research pathway and the potential linkages across the social sciences disciplines. |
| Carole Sutton, University of Plymouth | |
| Title | The Future of Research Methods Teaching |
| Abstract | Awaited |
| Jane Falkingham, University of Southampton | |
| Title | Training the researchers of tomorrow: development through collaboration |
| Abstract | In this presentation Dave Middleton, Director of the Research Training Consortium will discuss the business model used to disseminate, evaluate and develop the e-learning resource 'Doing Political Research'. The argument, based on a year's experience of generating interest (and income), is that the elements of e-learning that make it most applicable for students are the most expensive to create. In order to make the most of e-learning possibilities Dave will argue that it is necessary to regard institutions as natural collaborators, rather than natural competitors.In order to create resources that are interesting, interactive and innovative it is necessary to invest in the medium to such an extent that the economies of scale required can only be obtained by bringing together a number of institutions. Furthermore, in investing in a set of resources in this way, the deliverable outcome (DVD-ROM, website such as www.DoingPoliticalResearch.com, etc.) will be used in a way that 'free to use resources' often are not. Copies of the DVD-ROM 'Doing Political Research' will be available for partipants to take away. |
| Dave Middleton, Research Training Consortium | |
Available downloadsUsing Field Trips to teach Research Methodsby Carole Sutton Mathematics for Economics: enhancing Teaching and Learning by Dr. Rebecca Taylor Enhancing the Integration and increasing the use of QM by Jane Falkingham Overview of the LEMMA VLE by Jon Rasbash |