New Virtual Learning Platform and Course Bookings To Be Online Only From 2012!!
Today for the first time, Central Bedfordshire Canine Trust Chief Executive, Gary Gregory confirmed that as from 1st January 2012 bookings for the trusts courses, training classes and events would be handled solely online. In addition he revealed that the trust was planning to work with Sage and Moodle to provide an "enhanced virtual online learning experience" for those taking part in the trusts training classes and seminars.
The trust first made the move to online bookings when its new secure website and computer system went live in 2010. Since then the website handles an average of 3000 hits per day and the feature allowing dogs owners to become members, book courses and events online has proven extremely popular. Gary said "Since the website went live, the number of bookings taken via the online stream has steadily grown and for the last two training terms over 95% of places were booked via the website, this clearly showed to us that there was a demand and excellent reason to continue our online strategy".
At the trusts AGM in May 2011, a key objective was to reduce overheads and administration costs. The trust estimated that back in 2008 for every 1 course place booked, another 20 enrolment packs were sent out by post to enquirers, leading to increased administration, printing and postage costs. However it was released today that in the last two course terms (last 16 weeks) only 3 enrolment packs in total had been sent by post, all other information had been downloaded, viewed and places booked online.
The trust said today that it was looking into "appropriate systems" to allow future entries for the annual Evening Dog Show to be handled online via its own website and we were told that during the Christmas break the website would be "refreshed" with new features and functions added.
Talks are currently ongoing with Moodle the world's leading online Course Management System, which is a centrally supported "Virtual Learning Environment" and the trust will start piloting the Moodle platform in January 2012 for those which attend the Kennel Club Accredited Instructors Scheme mentoring sessions, hosted by the trust.
Once again the Central Bedfordshire Canine Trust is supporting Animal Aids Purple Poppy Appeal buy selling Purple Poppies which can be worn alongside the traditional red one, as a reminder that both humans and animals have been – and continue to be – victims of war. they are on sale at all our events and direct by contacting the trust office.
During human conflicts, animals have been used as messengers, for detection, scouting and rescue, as beasts if burden and on the frontline. They have been used for companionship in the trenches and continue to be subjected to horrific warfare experiments in laboratories.
Please wear a purple poppy and help us to raise awareness of these forgotten victims.
1) The show venue will now open half an hour earlier at 5pm to allow easy movement.
2) Congestion and delays may be possible on the approach due to Overflow Parking, please leave plenty of time and follow the directions of the Car Park Marshall's.
3) Caging and Grooming Space will be at a premium, please use it wisely and considerately.
We Wish Everyone An Enjoyable Show!!