Phil Pavey at Smithills School chose to focus on the creative use of the Roland VR-3 in his Roland Champion School case study. His specific focus was on embedding this technology within his work to develop AFL strategies to encourage pupil progress, especially with an under achieving boys. These were issues that had been raised in the school’s recent Ofsted inspection. The project was based around the students being able to watch themselves back live and instantaneously, thereby allowing them to analyse their performances.

The department found the use of the Roland VR3 to have positive effect on the students’ engagement and achievement. The use of the preview screen on the Roland VR3 allowed students to assess the quality of their performance, allowing students to discuss improvements and strength.  Students felt more comfortable using musical terminology when giving feedback.

After analysing the assessment data it was clear that there was a significant improvement with the students who took part in the project and also a narrowing of the gap between boys and girls achievement.

In conclusion, Phil found the creative use of the Roland V3 in a classroom environment has seen a positive effect on the approach to assessment and the feedback that the students are giving to him and each other.

Additionally, from this classroom work the school also started to make widespread use of the VR3  during school productions, drama and dance nights and music concerts. This greatly improved the quality of the AV used during these events. This was commented on by students, staff and other stakeholders to the school.

A full report of Phil’s work with the VR-3 can be accessed here.