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Brightspace Training Review

What is this project?

What is this project?

The Brightspace Training Review Project is an initiative beginning in September 2024 to enhance and update our educational technology training provision in IT Services. This project aims to create a cohesive, up-to-date, and efficient training programme that empowers staff to feel confident and supported in using our tools to deliver digital learning. The initiative will focus on ensuring that comprehensive resources are available, addressing the specific needs of our academic community through both live training sessions and on-demand training resources.

Why is it happening?

Why is it happening?

As the use of digital technology continues to expand in education, from our Brightspace VLE to our range of integrated tools, it's important that our colleagues feel confident and supported in their use of educational technology. By reviewing and updating our training, we aim to create a more cohesive and effective support system for all users of our educational technology tools, from beginners to advanced users.

This project will:

  • Ensure our training is aligned with the latest advancements in educational technology.
  • Gather and incorporate feedback from our colleagues to better understand and address their needs.
  • Explore innovative approaches to staff development in higher education
  • Covers introduction and more advanced training for our supported tools
  • Align our training with University strategic goals
  • Enhance the overall learning experience for both staff and students

What’s not in scope:

  • Training on systems not supported by the Educational Technology Service team in IT Services, including third-party software.
  • In-depth instruction on teaching methods, learning theories, or curriculum design that isn't directly tied to educational technology use.
  • General training on non-educational technologies, such as productivity tools.
  • Training on the use of audio-visual equipment in classrooms or other spaces.
  • Student-focused digital skills training or workshops on using educational technology tools.
Get Involved

Get Involved

We value your input! Throughout this project, there will be opportunities for colleagues to contribute to the project. Your participation will help ensure that our training programme meets the diverse needs of our academic community. Stay tuned to this webpage for updates and announcements on how you can get involved and make your voice heard in this important initiative.

Timeline

  • August 2024 - June 2025

    Research and Analysis Phase

    Stakeholder engagement including faculty surveys, peer institution benchmarking, and internal consultations to understand training needs and identify improvement opportunities.

  • August 2025 - December 2025

    Development Phase

    Design and create enhanced training framework, develop new workshop content, and begin building video resources.

  • January 2026

    Pilot New Training

    Launch pilot programme to test new training approach and gather initial feedback.

  • March 2026

    Complete Implementation and Testing Phase

    Refine programme based on pilot results, complete remaining resources, and prepare for full deployment.

  • August 2026

    Full Launch

    Deploy complete enhanced training programme across all areas.

  • September 2026 onwards

    Ongoing Enhancement

    Monitor programme effectiveness and continuously improve based on user feedback and evolving needs.

Meet Our Project Team

Profile photo of Liam Fogarty

Liam Fogarty

Senior Project Manager – Educational Technology Services

Profile photo of Nicola Carrigan

Nicola Carrigan

Senior IT Specialist

Profile photo of Rachel Hickey

Rachel Hickey

Senior IT Specialist

Profile photo of Justin Rowe

Justin Rowe

Senior IT Specialist

UCD IT Services

Computer Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.

Contact us via the UCD IT Support Hub: www.ucd.ie/ithelp