OK so this is the first blog entry that I've posted. I've been talking with lots of people and wondering whether this is the most effective method of communication, but hey, I'm going with this at the minute and looking at a number of other ways in which communication is possibly more effective.

I went with this just now because I think its important to share my activities with you, so that I am accountable to all, but also so that I can benefit from your feedback and direction.

Some of you may be aware that a number of Colleges are working on projects using specific software called 'Focus', aimed primarily at capturing and analysing elite sports performance. We're looking at alternative ways of using this for teaching and learning, and there are loads! Our Info Event on Thursay 30 April is basically about showing how the software can be used to our advantage in delivery and assessment of the whole variety of sports and fitness related subjects. Its taking a bit of time to learn how to manipulate the programme (the advisory group have met three times and had two additional training sessions since January to try to set this up), however, this was always going to be a long-term project, where the more complex resources will develop out of increased usage and familiarity with the software. However, we hope to have some 'hot-off-the-press' products to share at the event, and with one or two of the directors of the software company in attendance, all questions will be adequately answered!

I'm also looking at developing sustainable relationships between Colleges and Employers and whilst this has been a little slower off the mark, we have made some good headway in identifying what we need to establish in this area, and have a couple of really good models on which to springboard this initiative. This is also an important part of our Info Event on Thursday 30 April and is being covered by presentations from Paul Gallacher of SQA, Colin (Buchanan), Stephen McGregor (Angus College) and Sharon McGuire (Adam Smith College), followed by discussion with participants and forward planning for the Advisory Group/myself.

It's a busy time just now, and I'm trying to speak with anyone at all who contacts me, at the same time as trying to identify who may be able to help and progress the work of the Network.

Feel free to contact me with any comments or ideas.