Scottish first for remote student

Malcolm McPhedran has qualified from a computer networking course

A mature student has become the first in Scotland to receive a qualification without ever going to college.

Malcolm McPhedran, 40, from Inverness used an advanced computer networking system being trialled at Adam Smith College in Kirkcaldy, Fife.

Video conferencing software was used so that Malcolm did not miss out on human tuition, despite being 150 miles away.

He has now qualified from the computer networking course which 13 students are taking part in across Scotland.

Others are located on the Isle of Lewis, Thurso and Moray. The only technical requirement for participating is an internet connection.

Another level

The networking system, called CyberLab, is housed at the college's Priory Campus in Kirkcaldy.

Adam Smith College's networking academy manager, Keith Noble, said: "We can share online sessions with our students, interact with individuals or groups and observe every key stroke to carry out complex equipment configurations.

"We have used web-based study and assessment materials for years now and take them almost for granted. CyberLab, however, takes remote teaching and learning to another level."

It enabled me to carry out practical hands on assignments without the inconvenience of travelling from Inverness to Kirkcaldy Malcolm McPhedran

The networking system allows students to carry out real-time assignments which they would have previously had to travel to the college for.

Adam Smith is the first further education college in Scotland which uses the system.

Mr McPhedran said: "CyberLab made a real difference to me enabling me to carry out practical hands-on assignments without the inconvenience of travelling from Inverness to Kirkcaldy.

"Using the features within CyberLab was reasonably straightforward, in that you have regular contact with your class instructor using the Adobe Connect Video Conferencing facility.

"You also have access to test questions and other information which helps to reinforce the lessons within the course."