Section 1b: Technical Knowledge and Ability in the Use of Learning Technology

Description

In my career as both a developer and a learning technologist, I have worked with a wide range of learning technologies, including VLE platforms, accessibility tools, and assessment environments. I have contributed to the evaluation and optimisation of Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Blackboard Ultra, Canvas, Brightspace, and Moodle by customising workflows, testing features, and supporting academic staff in their use.

A screenshot of my Trainee List Electron app

I've also developed bespoke tools using JavaScript, Python, and Excel — from building GraphQL APIs within a commercial LMS to creating desktop applications with Electron for staff onboarding and training. These tools have improved platform efficiency, enhanced staff engagement, and often reduced technical barriers to adoption.

Key tools and technologies I've used in learning contexts include:

VLEs: Blackboard Ultra, Brightspace, Canvas, Moodle
Assessment & automation: Excel VBA, Python (Pandas), Postman (API testing), Mocha (backend test automation)
User-focused development: Electron apps, API integrations, Postman-based testing workflows
Accessibility: PDF/Word remediation, subtitle workflows, WCAG 2.1 and EN 301 549 audits
Collaboration platforms: Confluence, Jira, GitHub, Agile boards for LMS implementation and evaluation

Reflection

Much of my work has bridged technical development and practical pedagogical application. At Learnlight, for example, I optimised GraphQL API responses and implemented automated backend testing to support a commercial LMS serving over 700,000 learners. While highly technical, this work had a direct educational impact: improved system performance translated to better student experiences.

One project that exemplifies this balance was my integration of the Oxford Learner's Dictionaries API Entry Fetcher into the Learnlight platform. I developed a Node.js proof of concept that fetched and reformatted dictionary entries into accessible, semantically structured HTML. Using Cheerio for parsing, I removed superfluous elements and applied lightweight styling to match our platform's design. This gave students reliable, accessible definitions without interrupting the flow of lessons.

All features I developed were designed to work within the Learnlight App, which was the primary interface used by students to access their online lessons. The platform was built for blended delivery, combining self-paced digital content with synchronous teaching, so mobile performance, accessibility, and seamless user experience were critical.

At Imperial College London, I brought this technical foundation into a more learner-facing role. I wrote API scripts based on LMS documentation (including Swagger specifications) and used Postman to evaluate endpoints related to identity and access management (IAM), data analytics, and system configuration. These scripts supported LMS evaluation by revealing system behaviours and limitations across platforms.

Alongside this, I developed manual test scripts aligned with real-world teaching needs, including navigation structures, module aesthetics, bulk uploads, and user activity logs. These enabled broader staff participation in the evaluation process and informed my training delivery. For example, the ICT Senior Analyst test script exemplifies how I worked closely with academic and technical colleagues to understand their specific needs. By collecting user stories from IAM administrators and ICT Senior Analysts, I identified key API functionalities for their workflows, such as documentation accessibility, data request formats, and response limitations. This collaborative approach ensured that the testing scripts were directly relevant to real-world tasks. This dual approach allowed me to explain platform capabilities and constraints from both user and developer perspectives.

Through these roles, I've gained a deep appreciation for scalable solutions, accessible design, and the practical constraints institutions face when adopting or changing systems. My work consistently aims to reduce technical friction, build user confidence, and support learning outcomes through thoughtful, hands-on use of technology.

Summary

This section shows how I:

Used a wide range of learning technologies, including VLE platforms (Blackboard Ultra, Brightspace, Canvas, Moodle), assessment tools, and accessibility software
Designed and developed bespoke tools using JavaScript, Python, GraphQL, and Electron to enhance learning delivery and staff training
Created and tested APIs, including GraphQL and RESTful services, to integrate third-party resources such as the Oxford Learner's Dictionaries API into learning platforms
Supported system evaluation processes through API scripting, automated testing (Mocha, Postman), and manual test plans aligned with teaching priorities
Applied accessibility and inclusive design principles (for example, WCAG 2.1, EN 301 549) to ensure learning tools and resources were usable by all
Developed features for a mobile-first blended learning platform (Learnlight App), where learners accessed self-paced and live lessons on the go
Collaborated with academic and technical colleagues using Agile workflows, Jira boards, Confluence, and GitHub to evaluate and implement LMS solutions
Demonstrated how technical developments directly supported learning and teaching by improving usability, access, and staff engagement

Evidence

Platform Evaluation & API Testing

Postman collection developed from Blackboard Ultra's Swagger spec (Repository) Demonstrates hands-on evaluation of LMS API functionality and interoperability; translates Swagger documentation into practical testing workflows for IAM, analytics, and configuration.
ICT Analyst test script (Screenshot) Structured manual test plan reflecting academic workflows; evidences reproducible checks of navigation, bulk actions, and activity logs.
ICT Senior Analyst test script (Screenshot) Further evidence of applied testing aligned to administrative requirements; supports dual technical–pedagogic perspective in LMS evaluation and training readiness.

Custom Integrations & Tools

Oxford Learner's Dictionaries API Entry Fetcher (Repository) Node.js prototype integrating third-party content; uses Cheerio and semantic HTML to deliver accessible, in-context definitions for blended learning.
Trainee List Electron app (Screenshot) Bespoke cross-platform desktop tool for staff onboarding; shows pragmatic trade-offs for speed, deployment, and maintainability under institutional constraints.

Professional Development

Modern GraphQL with Node (Udemy, 2023) (Certificate) Formal training underpinning API design and optimisation work; evidences continued professional development directly supporting learning-technology projects.