Blog
The future of learning analytics: make data your organisation’s priority
You already have the data. Make the most of it.
byJames HodgkinandJim KeaneShaping the future: FE and skills workforce development in the age of AI
Dr Vikki Smith, executive director, education and standards at the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) reflects on how the further education (FE) and skills sector must adapt to equip the workforce of today and tomorrow.
byDr Vikki SmithClosing the digital divide: addressing digital poverty in education and beyond
Maxine Room joins us at the Association of Colleagues Conference to discuss digital poverty in education and beyond.
byMaxine RoomAI: five actions for college leaders
Michael Webb, director of AI, shares his insights into the latest AI advancements and outlines five practical steps to help colleges effectively implement AI tools.
byMichael WebbLA Story - successful learning analytics means understanding the data
Ethan Henry and Mimi Weiss share their lessons learned from implementing learning analytics at City University of London.
byEthan HenryandMimi Weiss JohnsonFast, cost-effective connection to the Internet for learners wherever they are
How SD-WAN technology can help meet the challenges of delivering blended learning.
byGuy EasterbrookThe future of assessment: embracing AI and EdTech
To coincide with A-level, T-level and BTEC results day, Olly Newton, executive director at the Edge Foundation shares his thoughts on the future of assessment and how tools such as AI are changing the game.
byOlly NewtonIt's not technology that determines the success of a VLE - it’s the users
The vital questions to ask when embarking on a virtual learning environment (VLE) change at your organisation and why there is no silver bullet.
byZac GribbleImproving cyber security immediately in one easy move – at no extra cost
How institutions can create the most secure environment possible for learning online.
byBen ChapmanBeware the 5th of July – the worst day of the year for a cyber attack
How can universities and colleges keep services running smoothly during critical periods like clearing and enrolment?
byClare StonebridgeWhat did NRENs ever do for us? The answer might surprise you
As we announce we'll be hosting TNC 2025 in Brighton, Heidi Fraser-Krauss reflects on the value of the Janet Network to UK research and education.
byHeidi Fraser-KraussWhat’s keeping FE leaders awake at night?
We asked about their challenges for the coming year – and priorities have changed
byRobin GhurbhurunMaximising the investment in research equipment
Creating a single database of available equipment could boost the societal impact of research in the UK.
byJohn KayeandBalviar NotayBuild it and they will code
Coding skills have become a coveted asset but the perception persists that it is a domain accessible only to the tech-savvy few.
byGuy StevensonIs it time to rethink curriculum and learning design?
The rapid transition to online learning in 2020 has been evaluated, lessons learned, and improvements made. The landscape has changed since then - is it time to pivot and adapt again, taking blended learning to the next level?
bySarah KnightShared threat intelligence is a game-changer for UK education and research
“Together we are stronger” should be everyone’s cyber security mantra.
byDavid BathoEmpowering education through global collaboration at Bradford College
Community champion Seima Mahmood and colleague Monika Worthington have spearheaded a campaign to make digital learning more inclusive and collaborative for ESOL learners at Bradford College
bySeima MahmoodandMonika WorthingtonHow smaller publishers are adapting and responding to the open access landscape
Small presses offer unique perspectives and wide viewpoints, and should be valued, supported and encouraged.
byAnna HughesCyber security is not just about the technical
How to persuade senior management to invest in cyber protection, from avoiding acronyms to building a community.
byDavid BathoAmplifying the voice of the further education and skills sector is key to improving software licensing terms
Collaboration between the FES community and Jisc is essential to enhancing our collective ability to drive transparency and fair pricing for the benefit of all
byLuciana PiccoliShining a spotlight on digital poverty
Analysis of the Digital experience insights survey highlights gaps in access to digital learning.
byClare KillenandDominic WalkerThe dos and don’ts of dealing with DDoS attacks
Vigilance and a complete understanding of what DDoS entails are critical to staying protected.
byClare StonebridgeandBen CrowtherOptimising the UK’s digital research infrastructure through the power of community
Reducing research bureaucracy, supporting international collaboration and growing net zero imperatives are all increasingly critical.
byVictoria MoodyOpen and transparent research is vital, but not easy - and it is reliant on research professionals
Openness and transparency are important components of rigorous and reproducible research and are fundamental to supporting a healthy research and innovation culture.
byTamsin BurlandandNeil JacobsExploring AI and assessment – avoid, outrun or embrace
A review of the three main approaches to generative AI in assessment.
bySue AttewellTransforming the learner experience by extending eduroam across the campus and beyond
Simply by opening their laptop, tablet or phone, users can now access online learning – wherever they are.
byTom HaymanThink like a hacker: improve your cyber security
Understanding how threat actors work makes it easier to make their lives more difficult
byNicole StewartNetworkshop 2024: Building the powerful connections needed to deliver the best learner experience
Explore next generation networking while also contributing to your continued professional development programme.
byJoy PalmerUK must step up to ensure access to digital learning is ethical, innovative and inclusive
Reflections from the State of the Net conference
byPaul McKeanBecoming anti-racist isn’t always easy or comfortable: but it’s the right thing to do
Outlining Jisc's journey from a non-racist to an actively anti-racist organisation
byGeorgios PappasWhat do students know about AI?
The updated Jisc discovery tool will help them find out.
byDr Becki VickerstaffandAndrew McFadyenUsing UKRI’s open access fund for long-form publications: a guide from Jisc
We’ve created a guide for librarians and research professionals who are applying for UKRI’s OA fund for long-form publications to ensure procedures can be followed with ease.
byAnna HughesSix ways FE colleges can help learners and teachers thrive in an AI-enabled world
A new set of guiding principles from Jisc and AoC makes it easier for colleges to use AI safely, responsibly and effectively.
byMichael WebbInternational Women’s Day: why STEM education remains male-dominated
Addressing the gender disparity requires a holistic approach, but virtual reality and learning through gameplay have the potential to make learning content more inclusive, accessible and engaging.
byFiona SteelUniversities should test their cyber defences - before someone else does
Academia is the top target for ransomware attacks, but there are practical steps that institutions can take to bolster their cyber security
byHenry HughesTechnology and lifelong learning can be a lifeline for adult students
This #CollegesWeek2024 we’re celebrating the impact blended and online education has on adult learners looking to upskill and improve their prospects for a better life.
byPaul McKeanMicrosoft translation tools can change teaching forever
Hull College has made learning more accessible and inclusive for over 1000 students in their City of Sanctuary by embedding Microsoft translation tools throughout the classroom and the wider campus.
byDeborah MillarHow we created an anti-racist curriculum that could transform the future of teaching
Wales’ innovative anti-racist curriculum aims to shape the world positively and break down barriers through the use of digital.
byYusuf IbrahimAI 2030 – navigating the future of artificial intelligence
As we stand at the crossroads of technological evolution, it is crucial we reflect on our journey so far in order to chart a course for the future.
byMichael WebbLet’s get ‘phygital’ – working out the future of work and education
Our mix of physical and digital workspaces is rudimentary and human skills will be as vital as future tech to making it work.
byDr Nicola MillardWhen it comes to partnership in the Scottish colleges sector, love really is all around
This #LoveScotlandsColleges week we’re highlighting the importance of partnerships to achieve colleges’ ambitions.
byJason Miles-CampbellData, digital and technology will lead the way in reducing research bureaucracy
Recommendations for Jisc from the independent review of research bureaucracy aim to enhance efficiency and support researchers in their important work.
byVictoria MoodyImplementing AI with digital wellbeing at its CORE
Basingstoke College of Technology is supporting staff and students in the ethical use of technology, including AI, to augment learning and support staff wellbeing.
byScott HaydenArtificial intelligence (AI) can make learning more inclusive for all
Insights into how using AI in the classroom can make learning more inclusive for students of all abilities.
byChris Temple-Murraye-textbooks and the future of learning, teaching and assessment
The challenges of accessing e-textbooks are well known with cost continuing to be at the top of the list.
byLibby HomerandGavin PhillipsUKRI monograph open access policy coming soon: here’s what you need to know
Are you ready for the new UKRI monograph open access policy?
byAnna HughesWelcome to a new age of digital enlightenment
Artificial intelligence takes the spotlight at this year’s Association of Colleges conference.
byRobin GhurbhurunUniversity staff are in the digital transformation driving seat, and they need better directions
Digital transformation stands to improve higher education for everyone - here’s why it’s so important to listen to the staff implementing it.
byKathryn HeywoodElevating the FE and skills sector through digital transformation
The further education and skills strategy review outlines Jisc's key achievements in supporting the sector on it's digital transformation journey.
byRobin GhurbhurunWhy should libraries publish AI-ready collections?
From universities to commerce, law and entertainment, AI is already starting to revolutionise the world around us, and libraries and research are no exception.
byPeter FindlayMetaversity challenge: How can edtech help higher education leaders overcome their biggest obstacles?
A report with Emerge Education has found higher education leaders are juggling staying updated with cutting-edge trends while addressing urgent sector challenges.
byNic Newman'Cyber security: the task is significant and complex, but we are not alone’
Written by Universities UK (UUK) in association with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and Jisc, new guidance for the higher education sector demonstrates the criticality of cyber security.
byProfessor Paul BoyleWithout intervention, AI could widen the digital divide for students
Access to education is a basic human right for all.
byPaul McKeanIt’s never too late to learn about AI and how it can improve education
First steps in AI: how Jisc is helping colleges and universities start their journey on the right foot.
bySue AttewellHow is Jisc supporting universities to make digital transformation achievable?
While it’s true that all universities are transforming digitally, the process is far from uniform.
bySarah KnightCreating a learner's digital passport to better wellbeing
Schools and colleges gather plenty of data about individual learners' wellbeing, but it is often lost when they move to higher education, impacting a university's ability to provide wellbeing support.
byRobin GhurbhurunandLiam EarneyInstitutions have the tools needed for sustainable change: the key is turning ideas into strategy
Environmental sustainability as a concept is not new. Colleges and universities have long considered how to minimise waste and make practices more efficient, not only for the good of the planet, but also to reduce costs.
byCal InnesResearch’s AI future is nearly here – are we ready?
The AI revolution is about to hit the research sector at scale. As we begin to explore the possibilities of AI in research and research management, it’s Jisc’s role to work with members, funders and stakeholders to develop ethical and practical ways of adapting it.
byVictoria MoodyWe need to reset the balance between the quality of research and impact storytelling
Problems outlined by a recent government report could be tackled by changing one element of research assessment.
byDr Alex FreemanDoes online learning deter university applicants?
Prospects has surveyed 2,000 UK university students to find out what they think about different modes of study. The results might be a little unexpected, but what can we learn from them?
byChris ReaUse one platform as your bridge to data maturity
Using a single data platform can create wide-ranging efficiencies for providers looking to build learning analytics into their organisational culture.
byJames HodgkinNew UKRI monographs policy is evolution, not revolution, of OA landscape
Monographs policy aims to boost longer forms of research
byCaren MilloyOn the edge: how a new approach to data handling can enhance teaching and learning
Why edge computing is a critical element in digital transformation for education and research
bySimon FarrGood, Better, Best – how small steps can drive higher education analytics success
Data analytics offer a way for providers to track and improve key metrics whilst supporting students, but how can they build an analytics culture?
byJim KeaneI love my job: pen testers are like the rock stars of IT!
It’s up to us to find weaknesses in systems before the bad actors do. Our work helps members to build better defences against cyber-attacks.
byAlex PostbechildThe Janet Network: delivering mission-critical services for UK education and research
An in-depth look at how Jisc provides the power to connect, collaborate and improve the student experience.
byNeil Shewry‘Jisc can play an instrumental role in making the technology sector a place women want to work’
How Jisc is using gender pay gap data to help encourage more women into technology roles
byHeidi Fraser-KraussLaying the foundations for an intelligent campus
How universities and colleges can plan for the campus of the future.
byJames ClayNew automated cyber service from Jisc takes the heavy lifting out of threat monitoring
As criminals find new ways of infiltrating and disrupting networks and stealing data, cyber security has become an ever-more complicated and time-consuming problem.
bySteve HowardHow Jisc drives innovation: turning great ideas into reality
Helping the education and research sector leverage technology as a force for good.
bySimon FarrThe sky’s the limit: extending connectivity for learning across the campus and beyond
How eduroam can increase accessibility, reduce IT workload and help close the digital equity gap.
byTom HaymanFirst steps towards a smarter campus and healthier buildings
How institutions can improve learning environments while cutting their carbon footprint.
byVictoria AtherstoneTechnology is fundamental to success of Government’s vision for lifelong learning
Last week, the Department for Education (DfE) announced the details of its response to the consultation on the design of the new Lifelong Loan Entitlement (LLE), due to come into effect in 2025.
byHeidi Fraser-KraussWhy campuses need 5G
The power and speed of 5G open the door to new ways of teaching and learning.
bySimon FarrEvery teacher can be an innovator, so let’s talk about digital confidence
During the pandemic lockdowns, thanks to remote teaching, everyone became an innovator - but many did not realise it.
byRachel BancroftandRosemary PearceWhy digital soft skills are crucial to graduate success and HE digital transformation
Jisc higher education senior consultant Dr Becki Vickerstaff describes how higher education providers can prepare students more effectively for the workplace by focusing on broader digital skillsets.
byDr Becki VickerstaffHow learning analytics can finally deliver on its promise
James Hodgkin, Jisc’s head of learning analytics, believes understanding data is more than a dashboard: it can improve data governance across higher education.
byJames HodgkinWhy university leaders need to know their digital
We are seeing different approaches to tackling digital transformation, and it’s inspiring to read such a vast array of examples from around the sector in our latest report.
byLiam EarneyInnovation in education – there's much to love about Scotland's colleges
From the excitement of cutting-edge industrial simulations to helping single parents reskill for a new job, our colleges continue to innovate, providing workforce and industry support for Scotland’s future.
byJason Miles-CampbellIndustry and education must work together to boost digital skills
What are the digital skills employers need for National Apprenticeship Week 2023?
byRobin GhurbhurunSurvey: professional services still operating under pre-pandemic conditions
The new digital experience insights professional services survey shines a light on the teams which form the backbone of the sector.
byHeidi Fraser-KraussThe case for a new data-driven approach to student support
The potential for HEPs to use new approaches to data presents an opportunity for us to understand more about our students and how to support them.
byEdward PeckCollege offers a clear pathway into high-end careers
Many companies are seeing the benefits of using virtual and augmented reality experiences for training employees, particularly those in hazardous or dangerous industries such as construction, logistics and manufacturing.
byDan PearsonHow higher education leaders are putting digital at the heart of institutional strategy
Higher education institutions (HEIs) have long invested in technology to change business processes and deliver efficiencies. But can the sector use digital to change business models to look for growth and increase income?
byNick SkeltonAn educators' guide to the metaverse
What is the metaverse, and what might it mean for the future of education?
byPaul Bailey