Its only been a few months since I joined Learning Development at Plymouth University (as a Learning Development Advisor). I help run tutorials and workshops on academic literacy, also within the imaginative space 'The Writing Cafe' offering informal tutorials for passing students. A Plymouth University 2nd year photography student chose the Writing Café for her project creating a story about the individuals who worked in and used the space. Each person was photographed in a way that the student thought represented them well and combined with a piece of writing.  I thought I would go out of my usual comfort zone and write a poem. Inspired by the Cafe and others in my team...  This is the outcome:

Comfort in spaces

Talk or write, write or talk,

There is solace in the pen, there is comfort in paper;

Home is in a page, a book, a novel,

Illuminated.

Shadows and light, Plato’s cave,

Images of knowledge, the minds you touch,

Help another, lighten the load,

Find a space, escape a hold,

Clarity of vision, wisdom with love,

Peace within silence, the final abode...

Jason, 5th Dec 2014

Introduction to DSLR: a workshop to train the Learning Technologist

I have been working hard putting together a selection of photographic/video equipment for the learning technologists to help demonstrate effective use of technologies to staff. The idea was to empower them to create their own videos for workshops and demonstrations of other learning technologies.  This has culminated in the creation of a workshop to train my colleagues in the art of the possible. Thought I would share the plan of a very fun session :)
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Timings and learning outcomes for DSLR show and train for LTs

10:00 Technical introduction to the equipment.

10:15 Demonstration of the following (This includes using the Zoom MP3 recorder):

1. Face to camera interview.
2. Interviewer and interviewee scenario.
3. Still photograph (head and shoulders).

10:45 Breakout groups of ~6:

1. One group remains in classroom.
2. The other group goes elsewhere.

11:15 Breakout group return to classroom and discusses experiences with others.

11:30 Pack away equipment and ready for staff Christmas meal.

Learning outcomes

• Understand how to handle both camera and MP3 recorder for basic operation.
• Photograph a subject (person).
• Use the camera for an interview.
• Use the MP3 for an interview.

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Much thanks to Ed Bremner (Learning Technologist) who helped co-run and develop this session, with his excellent knowledge and experience of video and stills photography.

Pelecon 2013 Day 3 photos

Pelecon 2013 Day 3, a set on Flickr.

Photos for the final day of the PELeCON conference at Plymouth University. Excellent company, presentations and keynotes. Safe journey to all the delegates, Plymouth enjoyed having you all :)

Pelecon 2013 Day 2 - Conference Dinner

Pelecon 2013 Day 2 - Conference Dinner, a set on Flickr.

Here are the photographs taken at the PELeCON conference dinner (National Marine Aquarium). I did have the fish starter... ;)

Thumbnails via this link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/foto_mania/sets/72157633222877603/