Robin Rice

JISC's Learning and Teaching (5/99) Programme: the Data Cluster

Purpose – This short article is an introduction to the Data Cluster of 5/99. Design/methodology/approach – Looks at the three projects in the cluster which dealt with uncovering the obstacles to using numeric data in learning (Datareach), producing teaching materials on time series data and making it easier to access OECD indicators (Timeweb) and encouraging the use of historical and contemporary status data in learning (CHCC).Findings – Reveals that all three projects have met user needs, but there are further areas for improvement. Originality/value – This article provides a useful introduction to the Data Cluster of 5/99.

Enhancing use of JISC data services

This article covers five of the projects that have been funded under the DNER development programme to enhance use of JISC data services in learning and teaching. The data services referred to are provided by EDINA at the University of Edinburgh, MIMAS at Manchester Computing, University of Manchester, the UK Data Archive at the University of Essex and the ILRT at the University of Bristol. The projects reported on are: 1. Use of Numeric Data in Learning and Teaching; 2. TimeWeb; 3. The Virtual Learning Arcade; 4. Developing the Collection of Historical and Contemporary Census Data and Materials into a Learning and Teaching Resource (The CHCC Project); and 5. e‐MapScholar. The outcomes from these projects will feed into the Information Environment that is being developed by JISC to deliver resources to students, teachers and researchers in meaningful ways.