Farnborough College LOVES Technology
In this fast-paced world of technology and innovation, our staff have been recognised for staying top of their game through prestigious accolades and awards.
Four members of teaching staff have achieved Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) Expert status this academic year; a title recognising their up-to-date training and use of technology to support learners’ education.
Josh Sparkes (Lecturer in Media), Michael Cornwell (E-Learning Design Programme Manager), Sean Patterson (Lecturer in Catering and Hospitality) and James McKenna (Lecturer in Public Services) were proud to receive the MIE Expert recognition for their novel ways of integrating technology in the classroom, and continue to share their approaches with fellow teaching staff.
The College itself was also selected as one of just 10 colleges in the Edtech Top 50 – a prestigious award that celebrates organisations shaping the use of education technology across the UK. Staff were commended for the way they used technology to support learners working remotely.
Feedback from the Edtech Top 50 stated: “There were a lot of submissions relating to how the College responded to the COVID related challenges and the way it stepped up to the need for emergency remote teaching. The manner in which the organisation reacted to the needs of students and staff to facilitate laptops, Wi-fi, webcams etc. was seen by many as ‘incredible given the pressure and circumstance.'”
“The role of one individual in particular, Michael Cornwell, stands out; not least in the large number of recommendations received. What seemed to cut through with many educators was his ability to make even very ‘complicated high-tech things so easy to understand.’ In the eyes of many educators, he is a ‘brilliant communicator; with the patience of a saint.'”
Virginia Barrett, Principal CEO, reacted to the news by saying “I am immensely proud of the staff from all areas of the College who went above and beyond to create a new virtual workspace during the lockdowns. What seemed like a daunting prospect in the early days soon turned into a source of great innovation and creativity. While I wouldn’t wish another lockdown on our college community, I would continue to welcome the culture of adaptability that it brought.”
Interested in joining us this September? Register for an upcoming Open Event here or explore the College virtually at virtualfarnborough.com.
