“November 2015 was my first IPDA conference even though I have worked in HE for 16 years. I wasn’t disappointed. I work in a Faculty of Health and Social Care currently as Principal Lecturer Learning and Teaching leading on E learning. I have also been a Lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography and Research Methods. I was persuaded to attend the conference by my EdD Supervisor. The focus of my dissertation is looking at factors that influence academics use of technology enabled learning in their pedagogic practice and how they go about developing themselves.

“The programme included keynote speakers, workshops and presentation of pedagogical research; plenty to keep me interested for a couple of days. One of the real benefits of this event was the diversity of participants from across the whole spectrum of education; early years, compulsory and tertiary education (HE and FE), as well as international attendees.  As a consequence a wide range of topics, pedagogical issues, research and practice were discussed.  Many of the challenges we face, irrespective of discipline area or field of education, appeared similar.  The richness of the discussions was enhanced, in my opinion, by the range of perspectives from the different sectors of education as participants drew on their diverse experiences and insights. Because of the mixture of delegates from across the sectors of education I felt qualified and supported to contribute too, as I was able to translate much of what was discussed to HE and the field of Health and Social Care.

“The conference was big enough to enable diverse networking, but retained the atmosphere and approach of a less formal and altogether cosier event. I was made to feel very welcome. It left me thinking I should have been before now!”

Barbara Wilford, Teeside University