College lecturer’s innovative teaching recognised by Microsoft UK

A Trafford College lecturer has been selected to become a Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) Expert.

Michael Woods, a lecturer and lead internal verifier for science based at the college’s STEM campus at Talbot Road, joins a select number of educators from around the UK in the exclusive MIE Expert program.

Each year, Microsoft selects innovative educators who are creatively using technology to help students achieve more and succeed in a digital world, share ideas, try new approaches and learn from each other as a global community dedicated to improving student outcomes through technology.

As a MIE Expert, educators build their capacity for using technology in both the classroom and curriculum to improve learning and student outcomes, advise peers on how to integrate technology in ways that are effective for teaching, and act as advocates at conferences, events and training for how Microsoft technology can improve learning.

Michael said: “I have been working with cloud-based Microsoft products for around four years and I am delighted to have been selected as an MIE Expert.

“The recent opening of the Microsoft Imagine Academy demonstrated that digital skills have been put at the heart of the college. In terms of teaching and learning, we are now embarking on our blended learning strategy, which includes Office 365 as a significant component. As a Senior Practitioner, I can offer CPD sessions as well as advice on the use of Office 365.”

To be considered for the MIE Expert program, Michael had to submit a two-minute Sway presentation to be assessed by Microsoft UK.

In his presentation he had to showcase examples of how he has cultivated a strong 21st century teaching and learning environment, incorporated Microsoft technologies in innovative ways in the classroom, and how he has impacted on the digital learning of his colleagues.