A d c o l o g

My working days are filling up nicely, thanks to a great input from this region to the Learning Transformation Fund

I thought I’d use this blog just to put forward some observations from the meetings and conversations I’ve had already, as it might prove useful to those doing bids.  It should be noted at this point that I’ve only read what you’ve read and these are just my observations – if you want specific advice from the bid team, you should contact BIS directly.

There are a lot of bids going on, certainly in this region, so I think it could end up being quite competitive.

There are some points to think about though:

• The bid is called The Learning TRANSFORMATION fund – how does your bid actually TRANSFORM learning?  Are you using a new type of teaching and learning, some new technology or engaging a group that haven’t been engaged before

• Public Buildings/Spaces:  The prospectus suggests making use of existing public spaces – but I get the impression it means ones that are not already used for learning or already have a large audience.  Empty shops, under-utilised community facilities etc are all options, though when it comes to empty community centres, you need to ask whether having good activities is the hook to get people in – or whether a different facility would do better

• Sustainability:  There are far too many good ideas coming forth here and in previous bids that haven’t examined this issue enough – it’s easy to say “we’ll the group will just continue to sustain itself”, but you have only got six months to develop this project.  I think technology plays a big part in this, even in non technological projects.  If you can use technology to record the learning, create resources and share ideas, then you can present them using the internet, for future learners to enjoy – and you have your sustainability.

• Environmental: When you’re looking at technology in environmental projects, remember that less can be more – by using online applications and cheap netbooks or reconditioned computers, you can cut down not just on software costs, but you can use computers that use less energy and, in the case or re-conditioned, re-cycle.

Keep your eyes on this blog and, if I come across other issues I think could be added, I’ll let you know.