About the RSC

[e-learning] [How RSCs fit in] [Who we work with] [Listening to you]

What we do

The RSC South West works collaboratively with other RSCs, and regional and national partners to support LSC-funded, post-16 learning providers in teaching and learning in the following areas:

• Embedding e-learning, implementing e-learning strategies
• Identifying and using appropriate e-learning technologies
• Raising awareness of support services from organisations such as the JISC
• Supporting technical infrastructure and systems development
• Advising on staff development programmes

For details on how we work with our learning providers, visit the Services page. 

What is e-learning

It involves the use of IT related learning technologies to support teaching and learning. This can include some or all of the following:

• Internet and intranets
• Interactive whiteboards
• mobile and wireless tools – mobile phones, mp3 players
• e-communication tools – e-mail, chat facilities, video conferencing
  Virtual Learning Environments ( VLEs)

E-learning can include activities such as online delivery (i.e. distance learning courses) and blended learning; using learning technologies alongside traditional teaching methods such as lectures and face-to face discussions.

E-learning is now a key component of Ofsted inspections. 

How the RSCs fit in

Funded by the Joint Information Systems Committee ( JISC), the Regional Support Centres ( RSCs) were established in 2000 - originally to facilitate colleges connecting to the Joint Academic Network ( JANET).

Now in the third phase of funding, each Regional Support Centre will focus on supporting learning providers in moving towards e-maturity – the successful embedding of technology in all aspects of your educational organisation.

Learn more about our core remit here  

Who we work with

Our learning providers span Cornwall,Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire,the Bristol area and the Isles of Scilly. We currently support:

• 30 FE / 6th Form 
• 13 Specialist Colleges
• HE providers
• 16 Local Education Authorities (Adult and Community Learning)
• 140 Work-based Learning providers (approximately).

We work closely with those who have responsibility for:

• Staff development
• Technical/IT infrastructure
• Teaching and learning
• Learning/library resources
• Curriculum development 

Listening to you

Each year, the JISC conducts a customer satisfaction survey across all 13 Regional Support Centres. The responses you provide help us to continually improve our service. The results for 2008-2009 were extremely positive. Comments included:

"Bringing together providers from across the region to share effective practices"

"The RSC is a tremendous source of support and useful information for our organisation"

"The support, training and encouragement to improve using the latest technologies"

"Well informed and reliable advice and guidance"

RSC South West

Based at the University of Plymouth, the RSC South West has offices in the University of Plymouth, Exeter Collegs and Cornwall College. You can find out more about our team Contact Us