Edinburgh College has won the 2022 College Development Network (CDN) award for digital learning for its innovative use of virtual reality (VR) to provide students studying health and social care with the skills and experience to care for patients suffering with dementia.

The college has partnered with technology experts at local Edinburgh business, Cadpeople, to develop and implement the programme of virtual learning. Edinburgh College says the use of VR can enhance training and address skills shortages within health and social care.

Jason Miles-Campbell, director of Scotland and Northern Ireland at Jisc, said: 

“Jisc is proud to have been a sponsor of the CDN awards since 2016, helping to recognise talent, innovation, and digital skill across the Scottish college sector. 

“As the 2022 winner of the Digital Learning award, Edinburgh College has shown how collaborative working between education and industry can provide a tangible benefit to both learners and their communities. 

“The use of simulated realities to enhance training within health and social care is a great example of technology for good, and the benefits will be felt by some of the most vulnerable in our society. 

“A very worthy winner.”

CDN is the national agency in Scotland that supports sector development across Scottish colleges. Jisc has been a proud sponsor of its digital learning award since 2016.

This year’s winners were announced at the annual awards ceremony on 25 November 2022 attended by more than 280 guests, making it the biggest in its history.