The LID (Learning Interactively at a Distance) Project: supporting learning, teaching and continuing professional development using information and communication technology

This article explains the structure of a project aimed, initially, at supporting Special Education Needs Co-ordinators (SENCOs) in the workplace using electronic forms of communication. It involved university staff and school teachers and students. The methodology adopted is being extended to all students, mentors and tutors engaged in both initial teacher training and continuing professional development. The key issues arising from the research are much more about the needs of those working in education rather than the attractions of the technology (or otherwise) per se. The conclusions, which are informing continuing work in this field, are both conceptual and practical. The article lends support to many contemporary opinions and attitudes now underpinning much of the developmental work in CPD.