Local Authority Representative – Emma Johnstone

Introducing mobile technologies for learning and teaching at this institution is an excellent opportunity to promote the forward-thinking ethos of this council's education strategy and encourage technology-related research grants to this area. Our students require current teaching and research tools in order to be at the forefront in the education and labour market. I highly commend this institution for considering this option and opening the debate to such a comprehensive working group in order that a productive and mutually satisfying result may be obtained. I very much look forward to supporting the motion.

Harnessing mobile technology facilitates creative teaching and creative learning (Cavus and Uzunboylu, 2009). The same study reveals successful collaboration between students, an attribute that will further their potential in future learning and employment scenarios. A well-planned uptake by this institution will allow its students to be at the forefront, leading collaboration within the learning communities and greater world. Encouraging such affiliations from our own community outwards is an opportunity to build an ethos that allows past and present students to remain in touch with and working together with this institution. This can only facilitate research, contacts and generate funding needed to continue.

Such a future vision must be initially shaped – and funded - however. No mean feat these days. I would intend for this to be a planned and considered project. Brought in and maintained successfully to benefit, most of all, our learners. Gaining a main sponsor who is a supplier/manufacturer of mobile technology would likely mean that they will provide a standard 'kit' and support. As this is of great benefit to this area this local authority has allowed one member of staff in our funding department to pursue potential sponsors. The institution will already have an IT support team whose training and infrastructure may be updated. Temps/IT students may be hired during the initial introduction when requests for support may be higher. The institution should consider how much support may be necessary, depending on the numbers enrolled on any initial pilot scheme. Would this institution consider collaborating with another institution or body to pool finances and resources? This local authority advises combining the introduction with a relevant research project in order to generate further financial support. Thorough analysis of the financial costs and revenues will be supported by the local authority.

This local authority and educational institution support equal opportunities of all kinds and, as such, course materials are always made available in a variety of formats. It is recognised that some needs may be served well by mobile technology and others less so. Dedicated staff are available to assess and advise (local authority and institution-based) and each case is always considered on its own merits. Further funding towards necessary technology or adaptations may be available to students with a disability or special need. A portable means of access to learning will help students with health/caring/personal circumstances be able to 'touch base' and keep up to date when they are unable to attend campus or have to be elsewhere for a time.

In these ways this local authority encourages opportunistic and adaptive teaching and learning. Learning and research can only be as current and up to date as access to information allows. Mobile devices are ideal to enhance these aims and place this institution at the forefront within the local authority and beyond.