The TEL Toolkit contains items specifically focused on learning. The diagram to the left shows the virtual learning environment (VLE) at the heart of the Toolkit and the tools that are primarily used for TEL. The VLE and the TEL tools represent the scope of the TEL Toolkit. Beyond this is other software that is not primarily aimed at teaching and learning and which is outside the remit of the Toolkit.
The Learning Technologists can provide advice on all the tools covered in the Toolkit. Each tool has one of three levels of support:
- Fully supported – this is software that is owned or licensed by BU, supported by IT and available to all staff. Learning Technologists have an in-depth knowledge of the software and its associated best practices and will provide training/support on request.
- Partially supported – this software is partly supported and may be used regularly, though not across the whole university. Limitations may exist because of a paucity of licences or knowledge. Learning Technologists may be able to provide advice, support and bespoke training.
- Advised on – Learning Technologists can advise academics in the use of this software and the risks associated with using it in a learning environment. BU does not have a relationship with the vendor or specific licenses which means that support is very limited.
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Not supported – we recognise that the TEL Toolkit contains only a small set of the many tools available for learning. Where there are specific requirements for functionality that cannot be catered for by the available tools, staff may consider the use of a “third party tool”. If staff cannot identify a supported tool, we recommend speaking to a Learning Technologist to discuss your requirements and explore whether any existing BU tools can be used.
Where a third party tool is used, there are many considerations including account creation and authentication, data security and privacy, legal aspects, the availability and longevity of the tool, backup etc. See the unsupported tools page for a list of the considerations.
Logging a request with the Service Desk is a good place to start so that appropriate guidance can be provided.
Below, these tools have been split into groups (fully supported, partially supported and advised on) so that you can understand the level of support available.
