1. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
Know IT
Making computers part of your life
Abi Reynolds
Centre for Research and Innovation in Learning and
Teaching, National College of Ireland
Learning at Work Seminar 15 May 2008

2. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
Know IT
Is an innovative blended learning course for basic computer skills
It encourage learners in the workplace to take their first steps in
learning about computers
Is delivered by National College of Ireland in strategic
partnership with FÁS

3. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
The need for Know IT
National skills strategy: Need for ‘actions to address deficit in basic
skills such as literacy, numeracy and the use of technology’
National Workplace Strategy: Innovation and change are critical to
Ireland’s ongoing transition to a more dynamic, highly skilled
and knowledge-based economy
Lifelong Learning: Access to benefits of new technologies, equal
opportunity

4. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
The Know IT Learners
No experience of ICT
Late adopters of technology
Do not see relevance
Fear and resistance

5. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
The Know IT Learners
No experience of ICT
But may be highly experienced in other areas
Late adopters of technology
Now feel left behind
Do not see relevance
But are uneasy as digital world invades
Fear and resistance
Learning is a challenge

6. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
Know IT Programme
Structure
Computer Using Using Using
Basics the Web e-mail Word

7. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
The Know IT Blend
E-tutor Journal
Software
PREP & Tutorial

8. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
Know IT Assessment
FETAC BF0133
Computer Literacy Foundation
Level 3
1 Credit
Task based – carry out three assignments; word document,
e-mail and find information on the Internet
Qualification and recognition

9. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
Where we are today
1165 Learners – variety of
companies Dublin & Rep.of
Ireland Age
2%
8% 2%
Learners – Even gender split, 18-22
23-40
majority are Irish, 60% over 36%
41-60
41yrs 61+
52% Not Specif ied
Top 3 Occupations – 1. Shop
assistants. 2.Factory workers. 3.
Managers

10. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
Feedback from Know IT
‘I found the tutor support at the beginning of the course very helpful
and the CD was interesting and easy to follow. I am now looking at
buying a laptop so I can email my friends and family from my home’
Liz, Learner -53, Shop Assistant
‘Many of my colleagues have not been involved in formal education for
more than 30 years and the great thing about this Programme was how
easy it was for them to re-engage with learning.’
Jerry, HR Manager, Retail Outlet
It lacks sufficient tutorials, John, Machine Operator

11. Centre for
Research and Innovation
in Learning and Teaching
Learning from Know IT
The importance of the Blend: Flexible yet supported.
Software exciting & engaging. Tutorials important –
PREP session
Recruitment: Challenge, Mix of marketing strategies works
well; majority from workplace. Two stage approach in
companies. Personal contacts & PREP
Motivation: Adults learn what is relevant to them
(Readiness to Learn). Practical tasks; e-mail good
example. Positive role models. Maintain motivation