ThirdForce Podcast Library

The ThirdForce podcast library offers a variety of topical audio discussions covering a wide range of subject matter. We are in the process of building this library so look out for new episodes over the coming months.

To download a podcast, right-click the "Download" link and choose "Save Target As..." to save it to your computer or listen online by clicking the arrow.

Episode 6: Esther Bulmer Area Learning Support Manager for ThirdForce - An introduction to Learning Support Managers (LSMs) and the new challenges of Functional Skills

Esther Bulmer one of ThirdForce's Area Learning Support Managers (LSMs) shared with Mary Reilly her thoughts on the typical background of an LSM and how they support learners through Skills for Life qualifications, NVQ's and Apprenticeships. Esther describes some of the challenges surrounding the new Functional Skills qualifications and how the ThirdForce blended solution comprising e-learning,e-portfolios and face-to-face support  fits around both learners and their employers to deliver successful outcomes.

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Episode 5: Jonny Parkes Chairman of the Irish Learning Alliance (ILA) - ELITE Platform and Social Software

ThirdForce was delighted to talk to Jonny Parkes from the ILA, on the E-Learning Ireland Technology (ELITE) research project. The ELITE project is a three year, ILA funded project running from 2006-2009, which is looking at informal learning, Web 2.0 and semantic web tools in the workplace. The ILA brings together the leading e-learning companies in Ireland who through collaboration of experience and knowledge have developed a ten year innovation strategy for the future of e-learning.

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Episode 4: Learning to survive these turbulent times - a ThirdForce perspective

Managing Director of ThirdForce UK and International, Alan Maguire, talks about the financial crisis, how and where e-learning can have a positive impact and how ThirdForce can help organisations. He discusses both the challenges and opportunities facing us, and how we cannot lose sight of our customers needs in delivering them solutions that will help them to learn to survive and maximise output at this time.

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Episode 3: R&D in ThirdForce - the future of e-learning

David Mitchell, Head of Production at ThirdForce, talks about research and development within the company and the e-learning industry itself. He explains what innovation really is, how it is approached and also gives us some thoughts on the future including Web 3.0. David provides interesting insights into where ThirdForce sees innovative changes in content delivery and management systems and talks about how we need to focus on our customers needs, gazing through the crystal ball of the future.

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Episode 2: An insight into the ThirdForce learning support service

This podcast introduces Denise Cowgill, Learning Support Manager (LSM) for ThirdForce. Denise gives a real life perspective on her day to day activities, working with learners who are studying Skills for Life and taking their NVQ qualifications. The role of an LSM is to offer guidance and support to the individuals in helping them to achieve their development targets, and at the same time provides employers with a "One stop shop" solution to confidently outsource their entire NVQ delivery requirement. The impact of which results in significantly faster completion times compared with traditional methods of delivery.

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Episode 1: General Security Awareness Training (GSAT)

This podcast introduces Andrew Hudson, airport security expert and advisor to ThirdForce in the development of our GSAT (General Safety and Awareness Training) e-learning solution designed for airside personnel. GSAT is a mandatory requirement under EC Law for all non-security trained personnel working in the Restricted Zone in any airport. Andrew shares his experiences and provides an insight into what really goes on behind the scenes at our busy airports.

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