Peter Houillon of FTC Kaplan, tells CALUM ROBSON why the college's innovative new learning tools are set to transform accountancy training.
FTC Kaplan, one of the UK 's leading providers of professional qualifications and business training, has introduced a brand new online suite of learning materials. Branded EN-gage, the system will surprise many of those used to text-heavy manuals - not only is it extremely visual and interactive, it has a host of features designed to make learning easier, more enjoyable and more effective.
EN-gage is launching to coincide with the advent of ACCA's new Professional qualification, which will be examined for the first time this December - and already the system has gained the backing of ACCA itself.
Listening to those in the know
Peter Houillon, FTC Kaplan's managing director, says feedback from those who had already embarked on accountancy studies has been vital to EN-gage's development: 'We surveyed our own students to find out what they regarded as the most critical factors contributing to passing their exams. They told us that, while high quality study materials and flexible learning options were important, what they valued above all else was the input of their tutors, including the notes they provided.
'This confirmed our theory that learning is most productive when students can engage closely with those who are delivering the knowledge they need for success in the exam hall - hence the system's name.
'We started from that concept and briefed our developers to design software that was sophisticated from an IT perspective, comprehensive in the range of content provided and flexible enough for students to cherry-pick topics according to their individual needs and circumstances.'
A highly visual affair
The online system leans heavily on the way people absorb and memorise information - with strong graphics, diagrams and indicator icons, as well as options to choose either bite-sized information or more in-depth 'expandable text'.
'Most of our students have busy lives to lead - they have work, family and leisure commitments that all compete for time with studies,' says Houillon. 'But not having time to digest a whole chapter of a textbook shouldn't get in the way of learning. That's why, with EN-gage, they can choose to read top-level information about each topic covered, without having to drill down into specifics.
'It's perfect for a quick revision session or for topics where students are more comfortable with the background premises and simply want to keep key facts fresh in their minds.'
Testing testing
Another unique feature of the system is its capacity to identify strengths and weaknesses in different subjects - and recommend remedial action if necessary: 'As well as delivering information in digestible segments, EN-gage provides examples of each knowledge area applied in practice,' says Houillon. 'Students can then practise what they've learned but more importantly, they can select questions that hone in on specific areas and test their knowledge - through tests that are based on those devised by our own tutors and which are currently used to in our classrooms.' The computer screen then displays suggested further reading within EN-gage so that students can take the steps needed to ensure the desired learning outcome is reached.
The system lets students select a 'tutor mode' for viewing - revealing answers to each question and working calculations - while tests can be customised for content and timing.
'Performance assessment is a critical component,' says Houillon. 'We've developed the system so that students will be able to grasp exactly which areas they should be focusing more on - with on-screen evidence to back that up.'
Once tests are complete, students can compare their performance against previous tests, by study topic - and even against their peers, although individual information is kept confidential.
Onwards and upwards
EN-gage will be available online from September this year, and all students who buy ACCA textbooks from FTC Kaplan will be given free access. But what next?
'We aim to continually evolve the system,' insists Houillon. 'We'll be paying close attention to student reactions, both anecdotal and via more formal surveys. Unless we actually listen to those who use our products and services, we won't be able to build on what we're confident will be a successful launch.
'Future plans will of course include rolling the system out for our CIMA, ICAEW and AAT courses, as well as other professional qualifications. How EN-gage performs for ACCA students will be critical - and we'll welcome all feedback.'
Readers can find out more by visiting www.en-gage.co.uk.
