In February of last year, we were thrilled to announce that Jen Deakin, our Course Leader for Graphic Design, had been awarded a prestigious technical teaching fellowship.
This honour, a collaboration between the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) and the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851, recognises leaders in technical education and provides them with the opportunity to share and expand the impact of their work.
Jen’s fellowship is part of an initiative led by the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851. This initiative aims to enhance industrial education and underscore the crucial role of subjects such as science and art in driving innovation across various industries. The program offers a limited number of postgraduate fellowships each year, with applications evaluated based on criteria such as demonstrating effective approaches to improving teaching and learning in technical education, how the Fellowship will be used to inspire others, and the planning of professional development opportunities to impact on the pedagogy and professional practice of other teachers.
Now, nearly 12 months later, we caught up with Jen to reflect on her experience with the fellowship and explore the professional and personal impact it has had.
What inspired you to focus on the subject of technological innovation in technical education, particularly with regard to using artificial intelligence to enhance learning and ease the burden on teachers?
“I’ve always been interested in technology and keeping up with the latest innovations such as Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and 3D Printing. So, when AI started making waves in education, I was naturally curious and couldn’t wait to have a go. The more I explored, the more I discovered the immense potential AI holds to revolutionise learning and support teachers in creating resources. I didn’t have any background in AI to start with, but I saw it as a great opportunity to challenge myself, learn something new, and see how it could make a real difference in the classroom.”
How have you found your fellowship so far?
“I’ve really enjoyed the Fellowship so far. It’s been an incredible experience that’s opened up so many fantastic opportunities. I’ve had the chance to attend prestigious events, connect with inspiring professionals, and take part in intensive workshops that have really helped me deepen my research knowledge. It’s been such a rewarding journey, and I’m excited to see where it leads next!”
What has been the most rewarding or exciting part of the fellowship so far?
“The most rewarding part of the Fellowship has definitely been the opportunity to share my work more widely within the teaching sector. Recently, I’ve had the chance to present my AI research at several national conferences, including the Festival of Education, the AoC AI Conference, the SFCA Curriculum Conference, and the UCET Conference. It’s been amazing to connect with others who share similar interests and ambitions. These conversations have not only sparked new ideas but have also helped me build valuable connections throughout the sector.”
What specific moment or experience that made you feel proud of your work?
“It’s been really exciting to see others across the sector take an interest in my work. Through the connections I’ve built, I was invited to join an AI taskforce with the Sixth Form Colleges Association (SFCA), which has been a fantastic experience. I even had the opportunity to co-author a publication on Developments in AI alongside college leaders!”
What aspects of the fellowship have been the most challenging for you?
“The biggest challenge I’ve faced during the Fellowship has been trying to keep up with the rapid pace at which AI is advancing. One example of this was when I created a bespoke AI generator tailored to Runshaw’s teaching and learning expectations. It took a lot of time and effort to build, especially as I had no prior experience with AI. The plan was to use the generator as part of CPD sessions, but unfortunately, the plug-in I was using became unsupported, which meant the tool could no longer be used. Although it was frustrating, the process taught me so much. I developed new skills and gained a solid understanding of AI and prompt engineering. So, even though the tool didn’t make it, it was a great learning experience!”
How has your approach to teaching evolved since you started the fellowship?
“Through the knowledge I’ve gained during my Fellowship, I’ve been able to develop new skills for creating lesson materials and resources. I now regularly use AI to write design briefs, generate content for handouts, and streamline admin tasks, which has saved me a huge amount of time. Most importantly, I’ve been focusing on promoting the ethical use of AI in the classroom. I work to raise learners’ awareness of what AI can and can’t be used for, helping them understand its potential while encouraging responsible and informed use.”
How has this fellowship shaped you as an educator, both professionally and personally?
“The Fellowship has had an impact on me as an educator. It’s made me more reflective in my practice, both in my teaching and in my role as an advanced practitioner, and it’s helped me become more adaptable when faced with challenges. On a personal level, it’s given me clarity about my future aspirations. It’s been so inspiring that I’ve decided to pursue a PhD to further my knowledge of educational pedagogy and technology. This journey has really broadened my perspective and motivated me to keep pushing boundaries.”
Have you had any specific interactions with mentors, colleagues or individuals that have significantly impacted your perspective on teaching or education during your fellowship?
“I’ve had many meaningful interactions with individuals across the sector as part of the Fellowship. The Education and Training Foundation has provided me with a mentor, which has been invaluable in helping me grow my network and access new opportunities. I’ve built great relationships with several people at the Education and Training Foundation, including a fellow AI enthusiast who I’ve been collaborating with. I’ve also had the chance to connect with University Professors, who have broadened my perspective on education and inspired me to continue pursuing my research journey.”
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for this fellowship in the future?
“If you’re thinking about applying for this Fellowship, my advice would be to go for it! Take the time to reflect on your strengths and how your work could contribute to the sector. It’s a brilliant opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, expand your network, and take your ideas to the next level. Don’t worry if you don’t feel like an ‘expert’ in your area of interest as the Fellowship is as much about learning and growing as it is about sharing knowledge.”
What other exciting things have you got planned for the final months of your fellowship?
“In the final months of my Fellowship, I’ll be completing the final version of my report, “From Chalkboards to Chatbots: AI’s Role in Transforming Further Education and Reducing Teacher Workload” which I aspire to publish in a peer-reviewed journal. I’ve also recently finished an AI Teacher Handbook, which is packed with practical advice and tools to help teachers implement AI effectively in their practice – which I plan to share widely. While the Fellowship officially ends this year, I’m excited to continue building on the relationships I’ve developed across the sector and look forward to collaborating with others to keep driving innovation!”
Jen’s journey has been truly inspiring, and it’s been exciting to see the opportunities it has unlocked along the way. As her fellowship draws to a close, it’s clear that the work she’s done has not only explored the transformative potential of AI in education but also contributed to shaping a future where innovation and collaboration thrive. The insights and expertise Jen has gained will leave a lasting impact on our learners, enhancing both their learning experiences across diverse subject areas and the overall standards of education at Runshaw College. We’re excited to see how her passion for education will continue to influence and elevate the ‘learning experience’, ensuring our students are well prepared for a rapidly evolving world.
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Published by: CR
