Resume
Mediarena is a combined workshop/studio space and exhibition area for new media work. It is a focal point and working space for Honours and postgraduate projects in new media, digital cinema, etc. The Technical Manager's role is to support graduate and postgraduate students who use the Mediarena facility, in conjunction with other available resources on campus, to push their practice-based explorations of media beyond current boundaries, using video, digital photography, soundscapes, installations, performance, new storytelling techniques, etc.
Technical Manager - Mediarena (Jan 2009 - Now)
- Managing initial setup of Mediarena including furniture, equipment painting etc.
(2009)
- Support for Digital Storytelling workshops (2009)
- Research Seminar: Demonstration of Moviestorm software
(2009)
- Set up Kaltura video editing software on server for students to develop video mashups
(2009)
Lecturer for Graduate Certificate in Applied eLearning. Worked on previously as part of UCOL role.
Online Tutor - School of Community and Further Education - Part Time (August 2005 to December 2008)
- Online Tutor - Technical Appreciation of eLearning Tools (2005 to 2008)
- Online Tutor - Producing eLearning Solutions (2007 to 2008)
Course Coordinator at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW). Lecturer ELCM302.
Academic Lecturer - School of Information Management. ELCM302 Principles and Applications in Multimedia II - Part Time (February 2004 to July 2004)
- Designing and delivering the course ELCM302, a stage three paper on Multimedia in eCommerce. (2004)
- Managing laboratory workshop tutors (2004)
- Prepare online support material. (2004)
- Writing laboratory workshop materials (2004)
- Marking and moderating assignments (2004)
- Facilitation of 'Network' training at Christian Community Church (2 Sessions March and October) (1999)
- Developed Website for Christian Leaders Association in Palmerston North. This is a database connected website developed using Dreamweaver, HTML, and Flash. Included is a Flash based map of Palmerston North. (1999 to 2003)
- Developed a 'Drupal CMS' based upgrade to the CCC website (2008)
The Team Leader role involves managing a team providing staff development, resource development and audio-visual technical assistance. The position has also involved providing strategic input to realise the potential of new and existing technology. The Education Technology Unit is a creative centre that integrates the technical and educational expertise of Manawatu Polytechnic staff to produce educational media and delivery approaches that maximise learning outcomes for students.
Team Leader - Education Technology Unit (June 1994 to December 2008)
- Prepared and delivered staff development courses on HyperCard, MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Excel, MS FrontPage, Internet, Digital Photography, Email, FileMaker, Web Page Design etc. (1994 to 1999)
- Individual support including assistance with specific software, designing graphics and developing web based learning. (1994 to 2008)
- Advice for lecturing staff on appropriateness of technology for their programmes including the use of video, communications systems, multimedia, interactive programming and open learning. (1994 to 2008)
- On-going ordering, supplying and installation of quality AV equipment. (1994 to 1999)
- Full management responsibilities for Education Technology Unit Staff. (1994 to 2005)
- Annual Education Technology Unit budget planning for capital requirements and for operational expenses. (1994 to 2003)
- Webmaster for Manawatu Polytechnic including developing initial web proposal, managing installation and ongoing support. (1996, 1997)
- Developed on-line web based delivery of Growsafe Course including interactive java assessments of practical skills. (1996)
- Computer based kiosk programme for the Plaza Palmerston North. (1995)
- Developed computer generated marketing video for use in Palmerston North Cinema - including animation, sound and output to video format. (1995)
- Prepared interactive computer presentations for careers expo. (1994, 1995)
- Part of a four-person working party investigating a city wide network in conjunction with the Knowledge Centre (PN City Council). (1994)
- Assisted development of award winning video for Manawatu Polytechnic People First course - 'Princess to Queen'. (1997)
- Developed student records and prospectus databases. Created active web access for the prospectus database. (1998,1999)
- Drew cartoon for promotion displayed on McDonalds food trays. (1995)
- Development team member for online course 'Graduate Capabilities' using the WebToolbox learning management system. (2000)
- Development team member for online 'IT Driver's Licence' including instructional design, resource preparation and web page development. (2001)
- Strategic planning for education technology at Manawatu Polytechnic, (1996,1995)
- Recruited new staff members for each faculty; preparing job and person descriptions, critical success factors and interviewing. (1995)
- Prepared, advertised, evaluated and made decisions on computer and presentation equipment. Over $100,000 in1995, over $850,000 in 1998. (1995,1998)
- Managed the smooth transition to the New City Campus of AV equipment including staff development and inventory refinement. (1999)
- Successful proposal to Eastern and Central Community Trust for $100,000 for Schools Web project and the set up of the community computing courses. Subsequent installation and maintenance of Linux based Schools web server. (1999 to 2002)
- Planned and delivered workshops and papers at the national Innovations in Education Conference. (1995,1996)
- Prepared and presented key seminar at UNITEC on where education is heading entitled 'Future Shock'. (1995)
- Presented paper on 'Creating a Web Learning Environment' for national Technology for Learning '98 conference at Massey University (1998) and National Business Administration Forum (1999). (1998,1999)
- 'Principles of Effective Web Design' Presented at the APNZ Conference 'Learning for E-Learning - Talkfest 2002' August 2002 (2002)
- 'Developing a digital campus: Helping learners embrace the knowledge age.' Presented at the national Compaq Education Conference 'Great Discoveries' April 2000 (2000)
- 'Creating On-line Delivery and Learning.' Presented at 'Developing the Thinking Learner Through Reflective Practice' conference December 2001. (2001)
- Managed the Teaching and Learning Centre. (1996 to 1999)
- Prepared and presented resource module of the teaching certificate at Manawatu Polytechnic - 'On the Road to Teaching and Learning'. (1997 to 1999)
- Developed Macromedia Flash Learning Objects for Portrait Lighting and Depth of Field. (2002,2003)
- Developed Administration databases for Personal Education Plan staff, e-Learning team and individual lecturing staff. (1998,1999)
- Designed and developed online survey system for Student Satisfaction Surveys. (2000 to 2002)
- Designed and developed online survey system for Staff Development Survey. (1999)
- Experiences getting started with digital video Presented at the Conference eFest - Rising to the Challenge' September 2005 (2005)
- Developed online paper - Technical Appreciation of eLearning Tools for the Graduate Certificate in Applied eLearning. (2003)
- Online Tutor - Technical Appreciation of eLearning Tools (semester 1 and repeated semester 2) (2004)
- Assisted with development of online paper - Producing eLearning Solutions for the Graduate Certificate in Applied eLearning. (2003)
- Video, filming, editing and producing TANZ Visiting Masters' sessions - Output to VHS and CD. Designed and developed CD interface. (2006)
- Video, filming, editing (FinalCutPro) and producing Diabetes lecture series. 13 Sessions recorded and output to 7 DVDs (2007)
- Prepared and delivered staff development courses on MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Excel,Macromedia Fireworks,Email,Blackboard. (2003 to 2008)
- Designing and developing numerous support CDs including navigation and interface. (2005 to 2008)
- Winner of the Julia Camden Award for recognition of an outstanding contribution to organisational development and support (2005)
- National Education Marketing Conference - Effective Websites for Potential Students - Harnessing the full Potential of Online Marketing. 1-2 September 2003. (2003)
- Filmed, edited and produced the video introduction for Peter Murphy's successful application for a Tertiary Teaching Excellence Award in 2006 (2006)
- Blackboard Administrator. Responsible for adding/enrolling/unenrolling/removing staff and students. Working with close to 650 Blackboard sites, over 6500 users, delivering around 15000 page views each day. (2003 to 2008)
Macintosh and Windows training for staff
Academic Staff member in the Centre for Professional Development and Educational Research - Part Time (February 1994 to June 1994)
- Planned and presented Macintosh and Windows computer training for UNITEC Staff (previously Carrington Polytechnic). This included planning course timetables, organising rooms, producing course material and course administration. (1994)
- Set up budgeting system for Staff Development Centre. (1994)
- Assisted with hardware and software problem solving for Staff Development. (1994)
Creative Learning Technologies is an authorised Apple Education Reseller with sales, training and service responsibilities.
Service Technician - Part Time (May 1993 to June 1994)
- Responsibility for servicing and repairs of computers and peripherals. (1993,1994)
- Assisted with management and training of other technicians. (1993,1994)
- On-site troubleshooting including network installation and support. (1993,1994)
- Assisted with software support and training courses for teachers. (1993,1994)
Relieving at Primary and Intermediate Schools
Relief Teaching - Part Time (March 1993 to June 1994)
- Approximately one day per week relief teaching classes from J3 to F2. Teaching all subjects including Language, Mathematics, Phys. Ed. Science, Reading, Handwriting. (1993,1994)
Macintosh and Windows training for staff
Casual Tutor - Staff Development Dept of the School of Education Services - Macintosh and Windows training for staff - Part Time (February 1993 to December 1993)
- Individual and group training on applications software. PageMaker, ClarisWorks, HyperCard, MS Word, MS Excel ... (1993)
Interactive Designer - Part Time (volunteer) (October 1992 to December 1992)
- Interactive Designer for Pacific Interactive including being senior consultant for the production of New Zealand's first CD-I disk. (1992)
Maintained responsibility for over 150 products including RasterOps screens and digital video products and PLI hard drives and optical storage solutions.
Product Manager (July 1992 to December 1992)
- Maintained responsibility for over 150 products including RasterOps screens and digital video products and PLI hard drives and optical storage solutions. (1992)
- Prepared and augmented marketing plans for each product group. (1992)
- Incorporated forms of direct marketing for niche products. (1992)
- Monitored market trends and competitor products. (1992)
- Maintained a high level of product and market knowledge. (1992)
- Evaluated and reported to the General Manager on budget and time work planning. (1992)
- Cultivated extensive knowledge of presentation tools including full colour animation and video. (1992)
- Maintained regular fax, phone and face to face relationship with numerous international manufacturers. (1992)
Dealer Manager (October 1990 to June 1992)
- Established rapport with extensive dealer network. (1990 to 1992)
- Involved with the release and subsequent sales of several new technologies. (1990 to 1992)
- Initiated combined distributor marketing for high end products. (1990 to 1992)
- Developed advertising material and other promotional material. (1990 to 1992)
- Organised product sales meetings for Dealers and their clients. (1990 to 1992)
- Provided the Dealer channel with initial and on-going information and prompt response to problems and queries. (1990 to 1992)
- Developed and sustained a good relationship with key dealers, and maintained a high standard of client service. (1990 to 1992)
- Product technical support (1990 to 1992)
The Apple Education Centre is an authorised Apple Education Reseller responsible for pre and post sales training and support for schools and polytechnics interested in Apple computers
Service Manager & Training Manager (June 1989 to October 1990)
- Management and training of service technicians. (1989,1990)
- Involved in the demonstration, sales and support of software. (1989,1990)
- Full responsibility for post sales customer enquiries. (1989,1990)
- Full responsibility for training including tutoring, developing training material and course administration. (1989,1990)
- Managed the "Apple Learning Centre" running over thirty different training courses for teachers. (1989,1990)
- Regular reporting to Managers on progress and future planning ideas. The Apple Training Centre was one of those ideas. (1989,1990)
Casual Tutor - Part Time
- Tutor at Kohia Teachers Centre on Computers in Education. (1989 to 1993)
The Apple Education Centre is an authorised Apple Education Reseller responsible for pre and post sales training and support for schools and polytechnics interested in Apple computers
Service Manager (October 1988 to June 1989)
- Maintained service area including diagnostic equipment. (1988,1989)
Fully Certificated teacher with eight years of teaching experience.
Maungawhau Primary School - Teacher (January 1988 to September 1988)
- Responsibility for technology staff training including developing resources, in-service courses, staff motivation and technical support. (1988)
Casual Tutor - Part Time
- Part time lecturer at the Auckland College of Education for teacher in-service courses on the use of computers in Education. (1988,1989)
- Tutor for computer modules in the 'Certificate in Administrative and Library Services in Schools'. Information Studies Department at Auckland College of Education. (1993,1994)
Tutor - block inservice courses - Part Time
- Part time tutor for the Department of Education on the use of computers. (1988,1989)
- Auckland Computers in Education Society - Executive Member. (1987)
- Facilitator for Education Special Interest Group for Apple Users Group. (1987,1988)
- Business Editor for New Zealand Computers in Education Society Magazine. This included looking after printing, distribution and finances. (1987,1988)
- Cartoonist for New Zealand Computers in Education Society Magazine. (1987,1988)
Ozric Software began as Grant Sherson's hobby. Grant has been involved in professional development training for teachers, contract database development work, contract multimedia development and production of computer software for education. All of this has stemmed from a personal passion to see technology used appropriately in education.
Managing Director - Part Time (December 1986 to March 1999)
- Entered and won Apple Software Development award. (1986)
- Set up meetings for teachers interested in using Apple computers in education. This involved correspondence and organising guest speakers. (1987)
- Member of the original HyperEd development group. Developed the HyperCard package "The Adventure of the Lost Tiki". Rewritten in Maori as 'Tiki Ka Ngaro' (1993) (1989)
- Custom development work on a contract basis using 4th Dimension, FileMaker, Macromedia Director, Photoshop, QuickTime and HyperCard. (1986 to 1999)
- Ten published, internationally distributed software packages for education. (1986 to 1999)
- Presenter on Educational Computing at MacWorld. (1991)
- Presenter at the New Zealand Computer Education Society Conference. (1989, 1991)
- Presenter at the New Zealand HyperCard Conference. (1991 to 1993)
- Presenter on Educational Computing at Bits & Bytes conference. (1992)
- Author of "Fountains of Fire" interactive multimedia system on show at Auckland Memorial Museum. [Treasures and Visions display (1992), Volcano's and Giants (1993, 1994, 1995)]. Also part of a published software package for schools. (1992 to 1995)
- Senior consultant for "Illusions" interactive touchscreen digital video system in Wellington and Auckland Art Galleries. (1993)
- Convenor and presenter for the monthly Education sub-group of the Auckland Macintosh User's Group. (1993, 1994)
- Planned, administered, advertised and delivered over 200 hours of courses for teachers at Auckland Teacher Resource Centres. (1993)
- Contracted to provide Training Courses, on Using IT, for Individuals or Groups at numerous Schools. (1992 to 1994)
- Managing a small business including advertising, sales, finances and client management. (1986 to 1999)
Fully Certificated teacher with eight years of teaching experience.
Glen Eden Intermediate School - Teacher (September 1984 to December 1987)
- Specialist computer resource teacher. (1984 to 1987)
- Specialist Music teacher including responsibility for music lesson plans for all Form 1 music classes (1984 to 1987)
- Managed Computer room. Set up and administered software including computer technical support, programming software menus, writing instruction sheets and computer maintenance. (1984 to 1987)
- Set up and ran a lunchtime computer club. (1984 to 1987)
- Coach for form 1 soccer (1984 to 1987)
- Responsibility for servicing and repairs of computers and peripherals. (1984 to 1987)
Avondale Primary School - Teacher (January 1984 to August 1984)
- Resource teacher for Mathematics and Science including writing the school schemes. (1984)
Gladstone Primary School - Teacher (January 1981 to December 1983)
- Resource teacher for Science including writing the school scheme. (1981 to 1983)
Part time professional musician. Lead singer and bass player - Part Time (September 1979 to December 1981)
- Resident Band - Birkenhead Trust (Auckland) (1980,1981)
- Playing functions, church dances and private parties. (1979 to 1981)
- Mt Albert Grammar School Ball. (1980)
- Southside Streeters - Rock and Roll Social. (1980)
Holiday job. Tree punning, driving bulldozer, driving road roller, road foreman. (December 1978 to February 1979)
- Holiday Job pruning pine trees, bulldozer driver, road roller driver, road foreman. (1978,1979)
Holiday job. Plumber's Assistant (December 1976 to January 1978)
- General plumbing jobs. Installing fittings, laying drains, installing guttering, roofing. Plumbing repairs. (1976 to 1978)
© Grant Sherson 2008