Learning fun with Litnum

Summary

An innovative idea at The Cornwallis School in Maidstone is helping to supplement Literacy and Numeracy programmes for pupils who were unsuccessful at Key Stage 2.

• The idea
• Funding
• Collaboration
• Issues
• Impact
• What Next?
• The Cornwallis School
• An Innovative Culture
• Links

The idea

John Plunkett, a biology teacher at The Cornwallis School, thought of using the Internet to support monitored independent learning, and by using web-based resources, pupil performance could automatically be rewarded and reported to supervising tutors.

John Plunkett was able to do this after research into data-tracking technology, multimedia online-resource technology and the requirements of National Literacy and Numeracy strategies. He designed, engineered and published a complete online resource system. This is hosted on a website named after the objective to improve Literacy and Numeracy skills: LitNum.com.

The site incorporates a log-in facility, so that the identity of the visitor is registered and associated with any learning activity undertaken on the site.

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Funding

In the initial phases, the Kent LA supported the costs of visiting four other schools and spreading the word about this successful project.

The DfES Innovation Unit has assisted in meeting the costs of website support, publicising the project, software purchases and administration. This has been extremely helpful in disseminating information about the success of the project and in encouraging other schools to join.

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Collaboration

The project was rolled out to other schools in Kent through a series of conferences and seminars. This was a pilot scheme, with a view to promoting the LitNum.com site on a national spectrum.

The feedback from these schools was beneficial in modifying the delivery and content of the resources and is much appreciated by subsequent users.

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Issues

The management support given to John Plunkett was such that there were no barriers to the development and implementation of this project. However, the school has invested significant funds into this project.

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Impact

Pupils achieving below level 4 in the Key Stage 2 SATs in 2001 were entered for progress tests the following May. Results indicated a significant positive correlation between frequency of access to LitNum and performance in catch up SATs.

The success of the project was attributed to the manner in which pupils were rewarded for their voluntary endeavours to improve themselves. The utilisation of the school's 'merit' rewards and certificate system, supplemented with gifts of pens and toys, acted as a motivating influence for the pupils. Enthusiastic follow-up to data tracking of pupil activity generated an understanding among the pupils that their efforts were acknowledged and appreciated.

Site statistics indicate sustained 'hit rates' throughout the school year, with 95% of access taking place outside lessons. 26% of access takes place at around 5.00 pm each day.

Further impact of this project has been:

• Increased student motivation, evident through the quality of work and the work ethic that can be seen throughout the school.
• The students have become greater independent learners in an environment where teachers facilitate learning.
• The results have been dramatic with students showing rapid gains in attainment not only in literacy and numeracy, but also across the curriculum.
• The school's GCSE A*-C results have risen from 48% in 2001 to 69% in 2004.

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What Next?

The formation of an 'Excellence In Cities' cluster, in the Maidstone area, has brought an opportunity to share the LitNum.com experience with neighbouring schools. The outcomes from this partnership may serve as a model for equivalent structures across the nation. Over 25 Schools are now registered users of the site.

For others considering a similar project, John Plunkett says that "the success of the LitNum.com project is clearly dependent upon enthusiastic 'champions' who keenly monitor and respond to pupil activity. A brief one-to-one interaction between a young learner and an impressed adult is so influential as to encourage increases in effort far beyond what may initially be expected!"

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The Cornwallis School

The Cornwallis School is a large grant maintained comprehensive located in Maidstone, Kent. It has a roll of 1600 pupils, aged from 11-18, and is non-selective. It gained Technology College status in 1994, specializing in ICT.

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An Innovative Culture

The LitNum project is one of many initiatives arising from the talented, motivated and committed teachers working at Cornwallis. A history of successful endeavour managed by a far-sighted Headteacher and Senior Management Team, with a supportive Governing Body, has engendered a suitable ethos for cultivating innovation.

The Cornwallis has become internationally renowned for successful ICT frontline initiatives and has, as a result, established partnerships with both Industry and Government.

For further information e-mail John F Plunkett on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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Links

LitNum.com
The Cornwallis Technology College
John Plunkett was a Teaching Awards 2003 category winner for the most creative use of ICT in the South East.

Download another case study on The Cornwallis School here (PDF - 47 KB)

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