Digital Fridays, an initiative that refers learners into provision, supports existing learners, promotes independence, supports tutors, and allows ongoing learning and the development of skills
Quick links:
- Information about the partnership
- Context and background to the effective or innovative practice
- Description of nature of strategy or activity and impact has this work had on provision and learners’ standards.
- What impact has this work had on provision and learners’ standards?
- How have you shared your good practice?
Information about the partnership
The Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) Adult Community Learning (ACL) Partnership, which was established in 2010, is led by RCT County Borough Council. The council works alongside Adult Learning Wales (ALW) to deliver most of the adult community learning provision across the county. The partnership has strong links with Menter Iaith Rhondda Cynon Taf, who deliver a range of adult learning programmes through the medium of Welsh. RCT Work and Skills (employment support) are also integral to the partnership, providing referrals and supporting learning. Multiply provision also forms part of the offer.
Context and background to the effective or innovative practice
Digital Friday sessions provide learners of all skill levels, including beginners, with the opportunity to book one-on-one appointments with a tutor for guidance on using various IT devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. These sessions are held in libraries and public venues throughout the county borough, offering convenient access. Digital Friday drop-ins also provide staff with an opportunity to assess the future learning needs of the participants. A progression route has been established across the partnership, enabling learners to engage in both accredited and non-accredited training. The partnership has created a pathway that supports learners from non-accredited learning all the way to degree-level education.
Description of nature of strategy or activity and impact has this work had on provision and learners’ standards.
Digital Fridays are designed for learners who need support with digital issues as well as for those who want to develop their existing skills, or access further relevant learning opportunities. Whether a learner is navigating the internet for the first time or needs assistance with their computer, tablet or phone, Digital Friday sessions are available for drop-in support. These sessions help community members use platforms like Zoom or Teams and provide guidance on staying safe online. Staff are committed to addressing all digital queries effectively.
Participants are not required to bring their own devices, as equipment is provided free of charge at the venue. However, those who have personal devices are encouraged to bring them. Learning on a personal device is often easier, and tutors will show learners how to connect to the venue’s free Wi-Fi service.
What impact has this work had on provision and learners’ standards?
Digital Fridays was initially designed as an entry point for learners but has increasingly become a valuable resource for tutors as well. Tutors often refer their learners to these sessions for additional support, particularly for technical issues such as adjusting settings or recovering forgotten passwords as addressing these issues during regular classes can be time-consuming and disruptive.
These sessions not only help in troubleshooting but also boost learners’ confidence and encourage them to take greater ownership of their learning. As learners discuss their device issues with others, they often discover that they know more than they initially thought and can better understand technical conversations. This newfound confidence leads them to share their experiences with their peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Tutors have observed that learners are more inclined to experiment and solve problems independently, rather than relying solely on teacher assistance.
Digital Fridays also serve as a steppingstone to more advanced training and learning opportunities, including adult learning in the community programmes that focus on digital skills. The social impact of these programmes is overwhelmingly positive, enhancing learner engagement and enjoyment. One tutor noted the significant increase in male participation, highlighting how these men support and interact with each other, enriching the learning experience for everyone involved.
How have you shared your good practice?
Good practice is shared at strategic and operational levels across the partnership. In addition, partners promote the offer on their websites and social media channels. Community members are made aware of the service through promotional material and attendance at events in the county borough.