Hal MacLean, 2009

Hal is the Director of Learning at Cleveratom Limited, where he works across a range of activities advising on the best use of ICT to support and extend learning.

Cleveratom has three core activities summed up in one sentence:

“To nurture opportunities for creativity and learning, using new and emerging technologies”

Cleveratom advise on the use of ICT for learning in both physical and virtual spaces. They develop online social software tools and websites such as ‘Thought Park’ and ‘Mobistick’. They also design, develop and run workshops and training sessions which use digital technologies for creative learning. More information can be found here.

Hal’s background is as a headteacher and educational researcher, having spent 15 years in the classroom and 6 years in a university research department, developing learning tools and promoting the use of social learning and community development in different sectors. Hal’s specialism is virtual and physical learning space design, and identifying tools that are engaging and delightful to use in those spaces. Recent projects include working with Autistic students, developing creative approaches to learning, implementing innovative tools to support personalised learning and managing the healthcare based projects that Cleveratom is involved in.

Creative use of digital technologies includes the use of video and radio to provide exciting approaches to learning. Having worked with the BBC on the fabulous ‘BBC Blast’ project from it’s inception in 2006, and working on innovative research since 2001 exploring creativity in learning, Hal is frequently found running animation workshops, radio and podcasting activities or video based lessons. He also authors DVDs and runs ‘DVD Studio Pro‘ as a website where others using Apple software can come and learn about all things to do with DVD.

Hal is often to be found talking to audiences about creative approaches to learning using technology and innovative physical and virtual learning space design. In his spare time he plays the drums, supports sports development for young people and is a keen photographer and videographer.