What is a Learning Platform? Why do we need one?

A learning platform is a combination of ICT tools and applications that support teaching and learning that can be accessed from the Internet. Think of a large jigsaw of tools and applications that together make a complete e-learning system. 

To keep up to date with Kent Learning Zone's latest news, developments, visit www.eiskent.co.uk?learningzone.

What the Government Expects?

The Government expected all pupils to have access to a ‘Personalised Online Learning Space’ by August 2008. (DfES Learning Platform Guidance for Schools).

Kent Learning Zone (KLZ)

Kent's solution to address this target is Kent Learning Zone (KLZ), a Children, Families and Education Directorate (CFE) project being delivered by EIS and funded through the Strategic Technologies Standards Fund Grant.

The KLZ is a web based ‘Communication and Collaboration’ platform that combines familiar Microsoft products, such as Outlook email, Live Communications etc, with the latest Microsoft Sharepoint 2007 technology to create a county wide infrastructure that allows schools to plug in the products that are right for them. This includes virtual learning environments (VLE's), and an increasing range of educational applications.

CLICK HERE for information on KLZ features and how to order

Impact of Learning Platforms

Instead of teachers sharing activities with colleagues by email, or using portable storage devices, the Kent Learning Zone will offer a whole range of collaboration tools, and online storage where teachers can share work and communicate with each other.

Sharing can be across a school and sometimes between local schools. The combination of an online environment and reliable broadband internet means that all members of the learning community can communicate and share.

So, does my school have to provide online personalised learning spaces?

Yes! The Government is clear about this and KLZ meets all DCFS requirements and enhances LA communication.