The Java-based prototype development is progressing rapidly. We have adopted agile software development methods and released seven versions internally within the past five weeks, concentrating on the following functionality:

• time-allocation of teaching methods and the representation of cognitive activities embedded within each method;
• setting of topics and outcomes and the creation of links between them;
• scheduling of topics on a weekly calendar and representation of outcomes covered.

On 20 June, we did our first user-testing of the new alpha prototype with a group of seven lecturers at London Metropolitan University. Although limited in functionality, participants generally indicated that the planner prompts thinking and helps visualise issues and ultimately take decisions.

At this time, there is no official release date of the first public alpha version, so please check back regularly for further updates.