Beyond the Technology

Kathryn Woodhead is joined by Josh Gregg and Paul Hibbard to explore the future of augmented and mixed reality in higher education. From research insights on cognitive load to real-world teaching applications, they discuss how these technologies can enhance learning, improve accessibility, and create more interactive experiences. They also examine key challenges, including privacy, scalability,...

Chris Thomson speaks with Chris Wood, Learning Designer at the University of Portsmouth, about using reflective portfolios to rethink assessment in higher education. Chris shares how portfolios can replace traditional essays with more authentic, flexible approaches that support reflection, formative feedback, and student ownership. Drawing on successful pilots, he discusses improved engagement,...

Watch the video podcast on YouTube. We're joined by Rob McDermott and Suzanne Galloway from Forth Valley College to explore how digital technology is transforming further education in Scotland. From the concept of a fourth campus to new approaches in quality enhancement and student experience, they share insights into collaboration, evolving teaching practices, and the challenges and...

In this episode of Beyond the Technology, recorded live at Digifest 2026, Catherine Evans speaks with Chris Melia and Phil Whitehead about community‑led approaches to developing digital skills. Chris and Phil share practical insights on peer support, recognition and collaboration, and how putting people at the centre can drive meaningful digital change across education. Show notes Listen to more...

In this episode, Jim Keane, and Newcastle University mental health advisor Liam Snaith explore how Jisc learning analytics is transforming student support. Liam explains how engagement and attendance data such as VLE activity and in‑person participation helps wellbeing staff quickly identify students who may be struggling, guide sensitive conversations and make informed decisions about...

In this episode, host Sarah Knight and guests Dr Jonathan Eaton, Dr Emma Heron, Dr Julie Blackwell Young and Sheila MacNeill explore how universities across the UK, and internationally, are transforming curriculum and learning design through Jisc's beyond blended resources. Together, they share rich insights from the first phase of Jisc's institutional research pilots and reveal how the beyond...

In this episode, Michael Webb, director of AI at Jisc, chats with Katy Gooblar, co-founder of Rebel Hive and future of work consultant, to explore how data and AI are reshaping higher and further education. Together, they dive into the critical questions organisations need to ask before adopting AI, the importance of purpose-driven strategies, and the human skills that will define leadership in...

In this episode, Jane discusses her role as academic lead to implement support for staff and student capability as part of a university wide strategic change programme. Watch the video version Jane talks about the essential stages behind the programme launch and its ongoing success enhancing teaching learning and student experience. Jane covers stakeholder management and essential touchpoints in...

In this episode of Beyond the Technology, host Andrew McFadyen chats with Zoe Tierney from Burton and South Derbyshire College to explore how the Jisc discovery tool and the newly launched essential digital skills question set are transforming digital confidence across further education. Zoe shares her journey from writing a college-wide digital strategy to leading a cultural shift in digital...

This episode explores how digital storytelling enhances learning in UK higher education. Chris Thomson is joined by Teti Dragas from University of Durham, and Richard Beggs from Ulster University, to discuss digital storytelling as a multimedia tool that fosters reflection, engagement, and personal growth across disciplines. They share examples of integrating storytelling, from student...