Inquiry-based learning and technology—supporting institutional TEL within one pedagogical context

Inquiry-based learning and technology—supportings institutional TEL within one pedagogical context

Sabine Little

Sabine Little is one of several Learning Development and Research Associates for Inquiry-based Learning

(with a special remit for networked learning) at the Centre for Inquiry-based Learning in the Arts and

Social Sciences, a Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at the University of Sheffield. Address

for correspondence: Sabine Little, CILASS, University of Sheffield, Level 1, Information Commons, 44

Leavygreave Road, Sheffield S3 7RD. Email: s.little@shef.ac.uk

Abstract

Following the establishment of Centres for Excellence in Teaching and Learning

in England and Northern Ireland in 2005, several institutions have used

these to pursue specific pedagogical approaches at a strategic level, in line with

and building on existing institutional strategic thinking. Technologyenhanced

learning is often one of the vehicles to implement these pedagogical

approaches, leading to institution-wide attempts to identify and support suitable

technologies. This paper discusses the role of the educational developer in

this process and what impact this particular role might have at strategic level,

bearing in mind the numerous simultaneous developments that take place in

an institution at any one time.