Plagiarism Conference

JISC organised the first international conference on plagiarism which was held at St James Park (the home of Newcastle United). Over 100 people attended. Most attendees were from Higher Education but there were representatives from a couple of English FE colleges.



It was a fascinating event which covered every conceivable aspect of plagiarism. The event attracted considerable media attention .



I learnt a great deal from the conference and plan to update my FAQ once I have time.

Enjoy 4th of July Specials on the Getac S400, Trimble Nomad 900L, and fliTablet Hands-Free Tablet Floor Stand!

While supplies last, Group Mobile is offering special savings on two of our most popular rugged computers — the Getac S400 notebook and the Trimble Nomad 900L handheld. These computers are in stock and ready to ship! In addition, save $10 on the fliTablet hands-free tablet floor stand! 

To shop for other special offers , visit www.groupmobile.com/dept.asp/dept_id=186/Closeouts.html or call 1-866-RUGGED8 (1-866-784-4338).

Getac S400 Semi-Rugged Notebook

Upgraded with Gobi! Save 10% off SRP!*

This Getac S400 rugged computer is loaded with upgrades, including an i5-3320 2.6GHz processor, 800 NIT multi-touch display, backlit keyboard, Windows 7 64-bit, 3G Gobi™ Mobile Broadband, and a low-temperature (-20 °C) battery. The Getac S400 also comes with 4GB DDR3 RAM and a 500GB shock mounted hard disk drive standard. The Getac S400 has advanced security features including a built-in TPM 1.2 module, fingerprint scanner, and a SmartCard reader to provide three additional layers of security and protection for your valuable data. With its rugged design and powerful tools, the S400 semi-rugged notebook is built to handle any task that comes your way! 

To learn more and order a Getac S400, visit www.groupmobile.com/product.asp/sku=7240/dept_id=186.

*Offer good while supplies last

Nomad 900L Rugged Handheld

Save $500 off SRP!*

The Trimble Nomad 900L packs functionality into one of the most powerful and full-featured rugged handhelds available. The Nomad 900L features an ultra-fast 806MHz processor; 128MB RAM; 1GB of Flash storage; GPS, Wi-Fi, and CompactFlash (Type II) Slot; long-life, hot-swappable battery that can work all day without being recharged; and built-in Bluetooth® to establish cable-free connections to other Bluetooth devices that are within 10 meters. The rugged Trimble Nomad 900L handheld has a high-resolution, sunlight-visible VGA touchscreen display that presents graphics and maps in vivid detail. It also comes with a Secure Digital (SD/SDHC) slot.

NOTE: This model features a PDA keypad.

To learn more and order a Nomad 900L, visit

www.groupmobile.com/product.asp/sku=6517.

*Offer good while supplies last

fliTablet Hands-Free Tablet Floor Stand
Save $10!*

Group Mobile is offering a $10 discount on each fliTablet you order so stock up today! Simply mention this blog or enter promo code flitablet10 when you place an order on our website. Discount will be taken when order is processed. To order, visit www.fliTablet.com. Offer ends July 30, 2014. 

The fliTablet securely holds the most popular, lightweight tablet computers, including the original iPad, iPad 2, iPad 3, Kindle Fire, Nook, Galaxy, Nexus, and many other lightweight tablet computers. The heavy base on the fliTablet ensures stability. The adjustable tablet holder secures your computer in place without scratching or damaging it. The fliTablet stand allows you to tilt and swivel your tablet, as well rotate it a full 360° to view your tablet in both portrait and landscape modes. The fliTablet floor stand is lightweight and easily portable. You can use the fliTablet while working at your desk, lounging on your sofa, or lying in bed. It also makes an incredible music stand!

*Offer ends July 30, 2014. 

Reviewing the satisfaction survey

The team met this afternoon to look over the results of the recent survey we carried out to find out your satisfaction with the service we provide.

As previously noted, the results were re-assuringly positive, with very low rates of dissatisfaction (5%), but there are areas that we need to work on to improve the service. Some of the weaker areas, such as SOLAR and the SQA website, are not the responsibility of my team, but others are, and we will try to address them over the next year.

Two specific weaknesses fall into the team's domain. The way in which we select people to work with us was criticised as being a bit opaque and unfair, and the fractured way in which we communicate with you (letters, website, blog, Twitter, etc.) was also criticised. We'll try to improve on these issues before the next survey.

But overall the results were good. I was particularly pleased at some of the positive results. The range and quality of qualifications were rated highly (90+% satisfaction), and the team is seen as courteous and approachable.

Thanks to those of you who took the time to complete the questionnaire. Hopefully, improvements will come out of it.

Summer holidays

I had planned to post this message before the schools and colleges stopped for the Summer. I still miss my long Summer holidays (I enjoyed 22 years of them) but, on the plus side, it's a good time for me to catch up with things since the office is relatively quiet for the next few weeks. And it's nice to take my own holidays when it's cheaper and quieter.

Me and my team will be busy over the Summer. We are organising the pilot of Digital Passport (and developing support materials for that award), commencing the review of PC Passport, producing assessents for the revised NC Computing with Digital Media award, finalising a new CBQ in Information Security, getting the review of HNC/D Interactive Media off the ground, deciding what to do with HNC/D Information Technology, finalising new HN Units on big data, and considering some new qualifications in the area of cyber security.

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter. Even if you're enjoying the beach, it won't take long to check the team's tweets. And we'll be sure to advertise opportunities to work with us on Twitter.

Blog traffic increases

June was the best ever month for the blog, with almost 1500 hits during the month. That's almost twice as high as the previous best month. It's good to see people begin to visit the site regularly.

HND Computer Games Consultation Event

An invitation to the HND Computer Games consultation event was despatched to all FE centres last week. This event is being held on Tuesday 12th August in the Carlton Hotel in Edinburgh from 10.00am until 12.30pm.

If you would like to attend, please contact Scott Miller at ict@sqa.org.uk to book your place.

We have chosen this date to coincide with the Edinburgh Interactive Games Festival, which specialises on gaming and games culture. This takes place from Sunday 10th August until Tuesday 12th August at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre.

Click on the following URL for more information:

http://www.edinburghinteractivefestival.com/

Rugged Keyboards

Group Mobile offers a comprehensive range of keyboard products for harsh and challenging environments. Many of these products meet NEMA 4, 4X and IP 65 specifications, making them resistant to dust, dirt, water and corrosive liquids. Rugged keyboards are the perfect solution for tough environments, including vehicle mounts in emergency, police, transport trucks etc. Also, the keyboard’s dust and waterproof feature allows for easy disinfecting and sterilization, which is essential for a clean medical environment. Some of these rugged keyboards feature a user-friendly integrated touchpad, backlit keys for low-light environments, and a one-touch emergency key.

For more information on rugged keyboards visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED8

Your Guide to Rugged Mobile Computers

Rugged Computers, also known as hardened computers, and ruggedized computers have been around since the late 1970s / early 1980s, so they basically have been around as long as the PC industry itself. It was quickly discovered and understood that commercial-grade PCs, designed for office workers or even highly-mobile, white-collar workers and frequent flyers, would not hold up in an in-field, in-vehicle, outdoor, or warehouse/factory type of environment. Rugged technology has been developed to allow what is a fairly delicate piece of sophisticated electronics, to be able to function and survive while on-the-go, in the field, and even in tough environmental conditions. Rugged computers have proven time and time again to save end users and organizations large amounts of money, time, and grief due to their durability, reliability, longevity, and 3- to 5-year full warranties… Read more…

For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Need both a Laptop and a Tablet... Try a Convertible PC!

Rugged convertible tablet PCs provide portability, power, and durability for mobile professionals. Convertible tablets look much like traditional laptops but the displays on these computers swivel 180 degrees and fold flat over the keyboard, offering users the choice of working in display mode and as a regular laptop. Using the display mode works well for filling out forms or taking handwritten notes.

Getac V100 Convertible Rugged Laptop
Transforms from a rugged laptop to a rugged tablet PC with a simple rotation of the display. With an Intel® Core™ i7-640UM 1.2GHz processor with Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.26GHz, the Getac V100 convertible PC is equipped with all the power needed for the most sophisticated software applications.


Getac V200 Fully Rugged Convertible
Powered by an Intel® Core™ i7 2GHz Processor, the fastest dual-core processor of any fully rugged convertible on the market. It comes with 2GB DDR3 RAM and a 12.1" widescreen 1200 NIT sunlight readable LED display with glove-friendly multi-touch technology.



Panasonic Toughbook 19 Convertible Rugged Laptop
Can be used as either a rugged notebook or as a rugged tablet PC. The Toughbook 19 is the perfect solution for someone that needs the functionality of both. With the release of a button the Toughbook 19 screen swivels to fold flat and becomes a tablet PC from a laptop.


Panther 2000 CV
Comes encased in Magnesium alloy with protective doors for all the I/O ports and connectors. The unit has been field-tested for vibration and drops against the Mil-Spec-810G standards. The 12.1" WXGA touchscreen display quickly converts into a tablet PC.



Toughbook C1 Convertible Tablet PC
Boasts an array of innovative features, such as a multi-touch + digitizer display, integrated Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth®. It is also the first rugged convertible tablet to offer hot-swappable twin batteries, enabling battery replacement without powering the system down.


For more information regarding rugged mobile computing visit http://www.groupmobile.com/ or call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

Summer work

The Summer time is relatively quiet in SQA since we receive far fewer enquiries from teachers and lecturers at this time of the year. This means that we can use the time to catch up with outstanding work and push on with on-going projects. Right now we are working on a number of projects including:

• PC Passport review
• NC Digital Media Computing review
• E-Commerce units
• HNC/D assessment exemplars
• HNC/D support materials
• HN Alternative Assessments
• HNC/D international awards
• SVQ/CBQ awards
• vendor-related work.

I also plan to write my annual update letters to centres over the summer. So it's a busy time but a lot less pressured than a few months ago. You can find out more about most of these projects by reading this blog or contact me if you want more information about any aspect of the work of the team.

HN Information Technology

Just to keep everyone up-to-date.

The HNC Information Technology is a validated course and now available to centres.

The HND resulting from this award has been validated subject to certain conditions being addressed. The QDT (Qualifications Design Team) reckon that they have addressed these conditions and the Validation Team were re-convening to review this work on Thursday the 29th of June. However, due to operational issues, this meeting in now being re-scheduled for mid-August (hopefully the 16th). If you require any additional information about this award then please contact Angela Lees (angela.lees@sqa.org.uk) or by telephone (0845 213 5475).

Mike Jannetta

SFEU Computing subject network event

SFEU held a subject network event for Computing today at Central College in Glasgow.

John McCann opened the event with an interested potted history of the subject. his talk brought back many happy memories for me of such things as the Advanced Courses Development Programme that commenced in the 1980's.

I had a couple of speaking slots - one on HN developments and one on the new NC awards. The HN presentation was interesting because part of it related to some of the issues surrounding the subject relating to uptake, success rates and student satisfaction. Ron Dillon gave a fascinating talk on the issue. There doesn't seem to be single reason but the contents of some SQA units appears to be part of the problem.

QDT meeting for HNC/D Computer Games Development

The QDT for the HNC/D Computer Games Development met this morning to finalise the qualification frameworks and agree who is doing what over the summer.

The meeting was led by Tony Gurney and was very productive. We had a lively but constructive discussion about exactly what the qualifications should look like and then decided who was writing and vetting each unit. In total, 14 new units will be created, which is a lot but not that surprising given the nature of the subject area. So, it's going to be a busy summer for most of the members of the QDT.

We are aiming to have the units completed by mid-September when we will post them for public feedback so watch this space. The qualification is due to be available to centres from January 2010.

We are also developing games-based awards at SCQF levels 4, 5 and 6, which means that, at the end of these developments, we will have qualifications in this area at levels 4-8.

Contact Caroline for further information and the HN awards and contact Hilary about the NC awards.

HNC Computing Arrangements Document

The Arrangements document for the new HNC Computing (Group Award Code GF3E 15) has now been published and is available for download from the SQA website here

All units have also be published and are available for download via the HN Unit search facility on the SQA website.

A finish date of 31st July 2015 has been placed on the current HNC Computing award (G7GL 15) and this will be communicated to centres through our annual update letter (and social media channels) over the summer period.

Assessment Exemplars and e-Learning materials for the mandatory units in the HNC will be published and available for 1st August 2012.  An additional 38 assessment exemplar packs have been commissioned that cover many of the optional units within the HNC & HND awards.  These are currently being worked on and will be available to centres by the Autumn 2012.

HN 2.0 update

I previously mentioned the HN 2.0 project on this blog. The aim of the project is to explore how social media can be used within the new HNC in Computing for summative assessment purposes.

As part of the that project, we are carrying out a survey into the use of Web 2.0 by college staff. I would be grateful if you would take a few minutes to complete it. The findings from the survey, along with other work that the team is doing, will be put into a report that will be shared with centres.

Part of the team's work is to look at how assessment can be reduced by integrating separate assessment tasks into more holistic (and authentic) activities. We are currently exploring how Web 2.0 tools such as Blogger (for logging student work), Box.net (as a portfolio), and Evernote (to capture evidence) can be used for this purpose. A key part of this approach would be students' use of smartphones.

Contact Kenji Lamb, the project leader, for more information.

What is MIL-STD (Military Standard) or MIL SPEC (Military Specification) ?

MIL-STD (Military Standard) or MIL SPEC (Military Specification) is a series of performance and manufacturing guidelines set by the US Department of Defense for military and commercial equipment and applications. These guidelines specify allowable parts and environmental condition ranges that a tool or other device must be able to operate in to meet compliance.

Some products will carry a MIL-STD-810E rating and others will state that their rugged notebooks are MIL-STD-810F compliant. The latest, MIL-STD-810G, is a revision of MIL-STD-810F and E. The tests and methods are the same but the results have been re-written to provide clearer direction. MIL-STD-810G testing is for a range of extreme conditions including 72" drops, shocks, vibration, humidity, altitude, rain-, dust- and sand-resistance, temperature extremes and thermal shock. Most rugged manufacturers have switched to providing ruggedness testing information using MIL-STD-810G, but some still cite the older standard.

MIL-STD-810 test method is used to generate confidence in the environmental worthiness and overall durability of material system design. The testing process follows guidelines which include program documentation, program roles, test standards and laboratory test method guidelines for all categories. The laboratory test methods are broken down into 24 categories. Learn More...

Scotland's Colleges Annual Computing Confererence

Central College hosted Scotland's Colleges' second annual Computing Conference today. There was an excellent turnout, with around 80 people attending, representing just about every college in Scotland. Speakers include representatives from the HMIe, LTS and and a number of vendors.

I gave a presentation about SQA developments over the last 12 months, which included the development of 12 new NPAs, the completion of an HND (Interactive Media) and the commencement of a new HND (Computer Games Development).

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

#

I particularly pointed out the changes to the Computing team and recommended that everyone print-and-keep the current team set-up.

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

#

When the current developments are complete, the portfolio of vocational Computing awards will look like this.

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

#

National Certificate launch event

We held the launch event for the updated National Certificate in Computing with Digital Media yesterday at the Stirling Management Centre in Stirling University. There was an excellent attendance with 46 people there, including many from schools.

The purpose of the event was to explain the changes to the current award (NC Digital Media Computing) and to outline how we will support centres when they move over to the new award. The contents of the new qualification appeared to be well received. We've added units on social media, academic skills and introduced a project in each of the three levels. We've also tried to introduce greater variety from level to level, which was a criticism of the old qualification.

The updated qualification (at SCQF Levels 4, 5 and 6) will be available to all centres from 1 August 2014. Many centres expressed an interest in running a hybrid qualification next year, comprising the old award with some of the new units added. The existing qualification will go into lapsing from 1 August 2015.

Contact Hilary for more information.

Digital Passport information event

We held an information event yesterday for the new Digital Passport qualification. The event was held in Stirling. Nineteen centres attended.

It's taken a long time to get to this stage so it was a pleasure to move on from qualification development to explaining what's in the qualification. My presentation covered the contents of the new award in some detail.


Digital Passport is a digital literacy award and, we think, its contents are pretty innovative, covering such diverse topics as big data, e-safety, social presence, network neutrality and critical thinking. It has a particular focus on "digital citizenship" and the role of digital technology in modern societies. Many of the audience were from schools and I pointed out the "good fit" between Digital Passport and the recent report on vocational education in schools.

We are piloting Digital Passport next year so that we can trial support materials, and give centres an opportunity to deliver some of the challenging material inside the qualification. Please contact Hilary if you want to know more about the pilot or get involved.

Digital Passport will be officially launched (to all centres) in Spring 2015 and available for delivery (by all centres) from August 2015. In the meantime, you can download the FAQ here.

Cisco meeting

After the recent meeting at Central College, I said that I would convene a meeting of interested people to take forward the links between SQA units and Cisco's CCNA curriculum. That meeting took place this morning. Eight representatives of colleges attended, including Anniesland, Central, Adam Smith, Cardonald, Angus and Stow colleges.

It was a productive meeting. We agreed to write four new units, with the same titles as the existing units, to reflect the changes to the Cisco course. We're hoping to have the updated units completed by Spring 2011 for introduction in August 2011. In the meantime, the existing credit transfer arrangement would continue. It's unfortunate that this development can't proceed in step with the wider HN review but centres need the revised units ASAP.

We hope to write them in a generic way so that the units are not tied to a specific vendor, while making them compatible with industry standards.  We also agreed that HN units needed to have academic value and should provide transferable skills that can be adapted to meet future developments.

Contact Caroline if you have questions about this project.

FREE Vehicle Charger When you Purchase a Trimble Juno T41!

Juno T41 Vehicle Charging Kit Retail Price: $54

Simply mention this blog or enter promo code freecharger when you place an order on our website for a Juno T41 and you will receive a FREE vehicle charger. Offer ends June 28, 2013. To order, visit groupmobile.com/buy.asp/sku=6156 or call 866-RUGGED8.
                       

The Trimble Juno T41 is a rugged field computer for data collection and mobile workforce management. It's a developer friendly computing device with either Android or Windows Embedded operating systems. Its sleek, ergonomic design is easy to grip and allows for all-day use by hard-working professionals and consumers in demanding environments.

The Trimble Juno T41 provides: 

• Windows 6.5 Embedded or Android 2.3.4 "Gingerbread" operating system 
• 3.75G cellular data, text and voice capability
• Email, web browser, phone & SMS text messaging, multi-media player
• Fully rugged design to withstand water, dust, shock, drop, vibration and extreme temperatures
• Gorilla Glass protected, 4.3" multi-touch capacitive, direct-sunlight readable display
• Variety of connections including USB, 9-Pin Serial, MicroSD memory card slot and MCX (for GPS antenna)
• 8 megapixel camera with geo-tagging and dual LED flash
• GPS receiver, (WAAS/SBAS) 2-4 meter
• Choice of 256MB or 512MB RAM, with 8GB or 16GB Flash Storage
• Long life battery (with Juice Pack accessory for all day field work)
• And more! 

Satisfaction survey is now closed

I closed the satisfaction survey this afternoon. It's been running for the last month so, I think, people have had enough time to respond. There were 55 responses in total, which is not bad, but not quite as many as I had hoped for. Most of the respondents (almost three quarters) were from the college sector, which was expected.

I don't plan to share the results since the information will be used internally to improve the service that we provide. But I do intend to collect this information every year so that we can compare our performance from year to year.

Overall, the results were good. Only 4% were unhappy with the service that the team provides, and only 5% were dissatisfied with SQA as an awarding body. But there are areas where we need to improve, such as the way in which we select people to work with us (13% were unaware of opportunities to get involved). The team will meet in the near future to look at the weak areas and try to improve.

Thanks for taking the time to complete the survey. Look out for another one this time next year.

Computing & IT Subject Network event

Yesterday afternoon, I posted something on the HN Review blog about an event organised by Scotland's Colleges. Every year, Scotland's Colleges organises a Network event to bring together practitioners from all over Scotland. I posted my comments on the HN blog because my own contribution to the day was about the on-going HN Review.

But a number of SQA developments featured during the event, including the new NC in Computer Games Development and the NPA in Mobile Technology. It was pleasing to see SQA developments play such a central role in the event, which, hopefully, shows that our work is important to colleges.

You can read a fuller account of the day on the HN blog.

Guide to Assessment

SQA has recently updated its Guide to Assessment.

SQA Guide To Assessment - Upload a Document to Scribd

Read this document on Scribd: SQA Guide To Assessment

It contains vital information for every assessor.

Summer Savings on the Trimble Yuma 2 with Best-in-Class GPS Acquisition in a Rugged Tablet!

Take advantage and save $500 off MSRP on any Yuma 2 Model*

The rugged Trimble® Yuma® 2 is designed for ease of use and high performance mobility with everything users expect from a tablet computer - along with the confidence it will perform flawlessly, no matter where the workplace may be. The Yuma 2 tablet offers the best sunlight readable display on the market and is available with a 1-2 meter real-time Enhanced GPS. It is built rugged from the inside out, with IP65 protection from dust and water, and with military-grade MIL-STD-810G certification for temperature, altitude, humidity extremes, vibration and shock.
 
Simply mention this blog post or enter promo code YUMA300 when you place an order for a Yuma 2 with Group Mobile! 

*Offer good through September 26, 2014 

The Yuma 2 Advantage

Sunlight readable display and enhanced GPS

The Yuma 2 has two distinct advantages in the world of rugged tablet computers:

• The 7" display is truly astoundingly, readable even in direct, glaring sunlight due to a unique set of technologies available nowhere else. Trimble's transflective sunlight readable technology gives you crisp readable screens. 

• Not only is there an option for "Enhanced GPS" that gives you 1-2 meter real time GPS accuracy - workers get quick connect to satellites. With Trimble GPS technology you now connect to satellites within a few seconds (less than 33 seconds in cold start; less than 6 seconds in warm start). In addition, this advanced GPS ability allows you to stay connected to satellites even when near buildings, under trees and other situations that causes GPS disconnect.   

To learn more, configure, and order a Yuma 2, visit www.groupmobile.com/product.asp/sku=6261 or call 866-RUGGED8.

Productivity additions from the moment it goes in the field - that's the Trimble Yuma 2 promise.

HNC/D Computing/Networking review: call for QDT members

At the recent HN consultation meeting, I said that the next stage in the process would be to form a Qualification Design Team (QDT).

We've already had several volunteers but please contact Caroline if you want to be considered for membership of this team. We'll ask you to complete a short form and, on the basis of this, will make a decision about membership using defined criteria.

I hope to convene the initial meeting of the QDT in the near future so please apply soon.

New Unit - e-Facilitating: Theory and Practice

We have validated a new unit in online facilitating (DX1A 34 e-Facilitating: Theory and Practice) which is aimed at teachers, lecturers, trainers etc who are looking to participate in online learning.

The outcomes cover the following areas:

How traditional face-to-face teaching methods can be transposed to the online forum
The theory in relation to creating a supportive online framework for candidates
Facilitating and participating in a forum-based activity

This unit is at SCQF level 7 and is 1 HN credit.

To download the specification, please access the HN Search facility on the SQA website.

Vendor validation - Part 2

We validated three more Professional Development Awards today. Last month we validated three PDAs linked to Microsoft certification. Today's awards are linked to different vendors:

• Certificate in Computer Concepts (linked to CompTIA)
• Advanced Certificate in Database Programming (linked to Oracle)
• Advanced Diploma in Network Technology (linked to Cisco).

The validation went well. The Validation Panel (led by Sarah Lennox of CompTIA) placed two conditions and two recommendations on the proposals. We're hoping to have the awards validated by the beginning of July.

More information from Caroline.

Vehicle Mounts

Laptop computer vehicle mounts are gaining popularity these days because using vehicles as mobile offices is becoming more common. A laptop computer vehicle mount holds a laptop, tablet or netbook in place while in a vehicle. Vehicle mounts allow you to mount your laptop computer in your vehicle, often with no drilling necessary. Most of these attach to the existing hardware of your passenger side seat, without impacting the ability to use the passenger seat. It supports the laptop and allows you to adjust to different viewing angles and computer placement.

A vehicle mount keeps your computer securely in place and close at hand for increased efficiency. Group Mobile offers a wide selection of mounting options to choose from. We carry the top brands, including Gamber Johnson, RAM, Jotto Desk and LEDCO-CHARGEGUARD.

To find out more about vehicle mounts visit www.groupmobile.com or call us at 1-866-RUGGED8

Unitech Handhelds

HT680 Rugged Handheld - a compact and powerful rugged mobile computer well suited for manufacturing, retail, logistics and transportation. Weighing less than a pound, the HT680 rugged handheld is ergonomically designed and can be used with one hand. The HT680 is IP54 rated, protecting it from moisture and dust. The HT680 rugged mobile computer can endure multiple 6-foot drops onto concrete. It is durable enough to withstand the toughest work environments!

PA600 Rugged PDA - perfect for users who need a compact, yet durable rugged PDA for data collection and real time computing. This rugged PDA comes equipped with a large color LCD touch screen display, 20-key keypad, 624MHz processor, integrated laser scanner, Bluetooth, and optional WLAN. Special performance configurations are available. The Phone Edition has GPRS WWAN capabilities. The Mobile Clinical Assistant configuration has anti-microbial housing and integrated RFID and 2D imager for use in healthcare environments.

PA968 Mobile Handheld Computer - designed for mobile workers. This versatile mobile handheld computer has a 2MP camera with LED flash, 1D/2D barcode reader, and a large battery capacity. The Unitech PA968 has 802.11b/g and optional built-in GPS and 3.5G wireless capabilities. The PA968 is the perfect mobile handheld computer for a variety of applications in transportation, logistics, law enforcement, or field service based enterprises.




For more information regarding rugged mobile computing click the links above or visit www.groupmobile.com. Call us at 1-866-RUGGED-8.

HNC/D Computer Games Development - Exemplar Production

We are about to commence exemplar writing for many of the HN Units within the new HNC/D Computer Games Development awards.

We have a dedicated team (Support Materials Department) to project manage the production of these exemplars. They are hosting a training session tomorrow for all writers and vetters involved in the exemplar production. The writing process will commence once training has been completed.

The following packs will be produced to support both the HNC & HND:

Computer Games: Graded Unit 1
Computer Games: Graded Unit 2
Games Development: Object Oriented Programming
Game Technology
Structured Programming for Games
2D Animation
3D Level Editing
3D Modelling and Animation
Game Customisation and Scripting
Mathematics: Calculus and Matrices for Computing
Game Design Theory
Game Design: Pitch to Treatment
Games Development: Character Creation and Storytelling
History, Evolution and Impact of Computer Games

We aim to have all packs available to centres by October 2010.

The Internet in context

We try to keep this blog opinion-free (well, free of the opinions of the Computing team -- your opinions are welcome) but I came across this article about the Internet in yesterday's Observer, which I thought was interesting and relevant to educationalists. It puts the Internet into some sort of historical context -- and concludes that we're just at the start of the revolution.

Speaking of the "revolution", you can add the SQA Drop to your Twitter or RSS feeds here (select the "Share" button).

Industrial Advisory Board

I attended the Industrial Advisory Board for the School of Computing in the University of the West of Scotland yesterday afternoon. The Board has 54 members, of which over 30 attended yesterday's meeting. Although this size makes it a little difficult for individual members to make a contribution, it's a great achievement to have such a large, representative body to advise the university.

Like my own Sector Panel, the purpose of the IAB is to provide advice about the university's Computing courses. I am the SQA representative on the committee, and it is very helpful to see the range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offered in the university. It's of great benefit to me when I work with QDTs to design HN awards that articulate with degrees.

I have previously mentioned the difficulties in engaging with employers, and committees such as this one and my own Sector Panel are one way of doing that. But it remains a problem, and one that I will be considering over the coming months.

PC Passport review

I've noted previously that PC Passport is currently being reviewed. The Qualification Development Team (QDT) met yesterday for its second meeting. The lead developer is Frank Frame of Bannerman High School.

We've made a lot of progress in a short time. We have now consulted on the draft framework. Over 200 people completed an online survey and we also carried out a number of face to face interviews. There was overwhelming support for our proposals so we're pretty confident that we are heading in the right direction.

The aims of the review are to modernise and simplify the structure and contents of the existing award. The draft structure (at all three Levels) is:

1. ICT Skills
2. Online Skills
3. Social Media.

This simple structure, I think, conceals an innovative and exciting qualification that will deliver key 21st Century skills.

The next stage is to get down to writing the units. We will do this over the summer months. The award is expected to be validated in December and available to centres from Spring 2014.

Please contact Hilary if you want to know more about this project or get involved.

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Visit to Abertay regarding computer games

I attended a meeting at Abertay University today to discuss a local development relating to computer games. The Dundee-based Access to Industry programme wants to offer games-based curriculum to its students (mostly disadvantaged young people) and I was there to suggest suitable courses.

The meeting was interested in Stow College's recent award. But I couldn't offer many specific units relating to computer games (at NC or HN level). So it was agreed to take this forward with a view to creating specific interactive units at National and Higher National levels. This development has the support of SkillSet which has standards relating to interactive media.

It will also link with the updating of the National Certificate portfolio which is about to be revised to include more up-to-date provision.

HND Computing launch event

The launch event for the new and revised HNDs took place yesterday at Jury's Inn in Glasgow. We launched the following awards:

• HND Computing: Networking (revised award)
• HND Computing: Software Development (revised award)
• HND Computing: Technical Support (revised award)
• HND Computer Science (new award).

There was a great turnout, with over 50 people attending. Launch events are something of a celebration; a culmination of a great deal of hard work by a lot of people. I pointed out that 17 colleges were involved in this development, so it was a huge collective effort.

I was the Master of Ceremonies for the day. My presentation outlined the purpose of the day and also some of the key messages.



The key part of the day was the presentations by the Qualification Leaders, each of whom discussed the contents and key features of their qualifications. I also took the opportunity to highlight some related developments, such as the HN alternative assessment project, which has been written about many times on this blog.

The event seemed to be well received. Please complete the (short) event evaluation survey if you attended, so that we can improve future events.

These awards are available now. You can download the Group Award Specifications here. Please contact Caroline if you want a copy of any of the presentations or have any questions about these qualifications.

Scotland's College annual event

Me and my team attended the annual Scotland's Colleges' event yesterday. It was held in their Stirling offices. The event was entitled Computing, IT & Digital Media Conferernce 2012. As always, the event was well organised and well attended, with around 50-60 people in attendance, most of whom were college lecturers from across Scotland.


The keynote talk was given by Quintin Cutts of Glasgow University, who spoke about the teaching of Computer Science. Quintin is involved in the Curriculum for Excellence, and gave a fascinating talk about how the teaching of computer programming in schools is likely to change.

I followed Quintin, and gave an update on recent SQA developments, with particular focus on the on-going HN Review. Part of my presentation described the range of new qualifications that have been developed during the last 12 months (such as Internet Safety, NC Computer Games, and HNC Computing). I also described the new way that SQA is going to recognise vendor qualifications inside Higher National awards. My presentation seemed to be well received.

Scotlands colleges event june 2012

View more presentations from bobbyelliott.

There were a number of interesting workshops for delegates to choose from. I attended two: one from Google (about Google Apps for education) and one from Microsoft (about their range of certifications).

It was pleasing to see SQA qualifications figure so prominently throughout the event. For example, David Renton's (Reid Kerr College) talk on XNA4 explained how he used this technology to deliver the HNC in Computer Games Development.

Suzanne Scott's (Borders College) talk on interactive media was based around the HNC of the same name.

Please contact Gerry Dougan if you want to know more about Scotland's Colleges. Contact Hilary or contact Caroline if you want to know more about Computing qualifications at non-advanced or advanced level respectively.

Walter Patterson retires

Walter Patterson retired last week. I attended Walter's retirement celebration on Friday evening. It was held in the Glasgow Metropolitan College.

Walter has been an HMI for nearly 20 years and during that time he has been instrumental in shaping Computing/IT education within Scotland. His knowledge, experience and unique character will be sorely missed.

I've served on numerous committees with him - many of which were difficult meetings but Walter always handled them well. I remember one in particular when Walter was trying to introduce the Internet only to be angrily told that "The Internet's a fad! It won't be here next year!". Walter, thankfully, persevered.

I've known Walter for more than 10 years but I didn't know that he was a comedian - but he held the floor for the last 30 minutes of the evening and his talk was hilarious.

Internet Safety and child protection

I've been in London for a couple of days attending various events relating to Internet safety in general, and child protection in particular. Our Internet Safety qualification has established a reputation for SQA as something of an innovator in this area but it's always nice to be involved in national initiatives.

On Wednesday I attended a FOSI event about mobile safety. The audience was from all over the world, including representatives of the major mobile phone companies and the UN, and I was asked to participate in a panel session to answer questions about national qualification in this area.

Then on Thursday I went along to the CEOP offices to observe around 100 people undertake the Ambassador training programme. This programme is designed for people who work with children to deliver the ThinkUKnow child safety course.

I had interesting and productive discussions with CEOP about how SQA could support this important training programme. More news will follow shortly.

HN Multimedia Review (1st Focus Group Meeting)

Two Focus Group meeting have been organised to gather initial findings from the field to help shape the tasks that have to be addressed during the review of these awards. The 1st event has held in Jury's Inn on Friday the 16th and it turned out to be a very worthwhile and constructive event with 26 representatives from centres. The 2nd event is on Friday the 23rd June (10am), Apex Hotel, City Quay, Dundee and you or a colleague can book your place at the following weblink –

http://rsvpregister.com/event.php?50732

Mike Jannetta

PC Passport Review

Another development enters a reviw stage -

The PC Passort QDT (Qualifications Design Team) held its 1st meeting on Thursday the 16th of June. This event was held in The Marriott Hotel with the aim of the meeting to define the developments. There are many task which have to be undertaken in this project.

The QDT members are -

Anne Forrest (Lead)
Janet Bennett (Kilmarnock College)
Lynn Donald (Cumbernauld High School)
Susan Burns (Broughton High School)
Gavin Innes (Aberdeen College)
Jacqui Bower (Dunfermline Centre)
Isobel Roachford (Lauder College)
Marion Falconer (Adam Smith College)
Eric Forrester (Bishopbriggs Academy)
Hugh McDiarmid (Adam Smith College) (verifier)
HE Representative still to be allocated to this group

The team are reconvening at the beginning of August to move these developments forward.

Mike Jannetta

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