Internet usage has vastly increased over the last few years. Everybody, especially in younger age groups, now expect to have information available via the internet. Communication is now possible via many electronic means.
Improving engagement has been recognised as a key element in improving recruitment, retention and achievement of learners. Making information available on the internet and allowing learners to interact, by sending messages, with their assessor is a great way of engaging with learners.
Vocational qualifications have always attracted learners who prefer the practical aspects of learning. These learners can have a quite unenthusiastic opinion of a paper-based portfolio.
Physically visiting learners is a time consuming process, but a lack of contact, especially between visits can lead to de-motivation, loss of focus and ultimately poor progression.
By offering remote learner access to their portfolio, e-Qual enables providers to engage with their learners.
Once a learner has accessed the site, they can see progress information, communicate with the Assessor and even submit evidence for consideration.
Evidence submitted may be mapped to the qualification standards by the learner. These mappings are then reviewed and amended by the Assessor before accepting.
Learning materials may be added to qualification, these materials are then available for download by the learner.
The system also allows the portfolio to be downloaded and burnt to CD, either during the programme or on completion.
The benefits
- Engages the learner.
- Increases the enjoyment for the learner.
- The system helps the learner to achieve quicker/complete earlier.
- Increases retention of learners.
- Enables discussion between the learner and Assessor rather than spending time filling in forms.
- Increases the quality of information gathered.
- Instant access to course material.
- Immediate communication with Assessor.
- Give the learner the ability to track their own progress.
- Learner records can be on CD rather than in a paper file.
Making the most of e-Qual and how to collect electronic
- Mobile phones can be a great way to provide evidence. If the mobile has a camera function photos can be taken of work completed and if it has a voice recorder, the manager can give a testimony to say that the work has been completed to the required standard. The blue tooth function will help send evidence to e-Qual. If the learner is not sure what to do, the assessor is there to help.
- Digital cameras can not only take pictures of work but can also be used to video work the learner is doing. This is a great form of evidence.
- Not only can it be used to store the learner’s favourite music, an MP3 player is also great to record work conversations and testimonies as evidence towards their qualification.
- Learners can respond to questions and complete storyboards by e-mail. No reams of paper and easy to respond to.
- itouch can be used to surf the web and help with any knowledge and understanding questions or ERR requirements.
