Learning and Teaching in Higher Education - PGCert

Program Overview

The PGCert in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (PGCert LTHE) is a 12-month blended learning program designed for those who teach and support learning in higher education. It aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become effective HE practitioners who prioritize student-centered learning. The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate participants' understanding and application of the program's learning objectives. Graduates are prepared for careers in higher education teaching and support roles, such as lecturers, tutors, academic developers, and educational researchers.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Summary:

The PGCert in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (PGCert LTHE) is a 12-month, blended learning program designed for those who directly teach and support learning in higher education (HE). The program aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become effective HE practitioners who prioritize student-centered learning.

Objectives:

• Develop an understanding of program development and associated pedagogical knowledge, skills, and values.

• Become an effective HE practitioner who puts students at the center of programs and practice.

• Develop transformational reflective practice.

• Support participants in recognizing and managing the diverse and competing demands of professional academic practice.

Description:

This program aligns with the Advance HE UK Professional Standards for Teaching and Supporting Learning in HE (UKPSF). It utilizes a blended learning approach that combines online modules with face-to-face sessions. Participants actively engage in their own learning through a structured journey, supported by course tutors, workplace 'critical friend,' and peers. This collaborative environment fosters the integration of pedagogical concepts into existing practice, encouraging critical reflection and development of effective teaching strategies.

Outline:

Content:

The program consists of two modules:

Structure:

Each module is delivered through nine taught sessions supported by activities, readings, and observations. This approach allows participants to understand, apply, and reinforce their learning of the concepts covered.

Schedule:

The program is delivered over a 12-month period with a blended learning approach.

Individual Modules:

• Theory and Practice in Higher Education:
• Introduces participants to theories of learning and teaching.
• Encourages reflection on personal epistemologies and their impact on students.
• Provides opportunities to integrate pedagogical concepts into existing practice.
• Uses a structured learning journey with support from tutors, peers, and a 'critical friend'.
• Practice and Research in Higher Education:
• Allows participants to focus on a specific aspect of their practice suitable for research inquiry.
• Emphasizes ethical considerations in research.
• Further develops and embeds research-based teaching and guidance strategies.
• Encourages engagement with academic and professional practices.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate participants' understanding and application of the program's learning objectives. The assessments reflect the program's design, allowing participants to develop academic and professional knowledge while fostering critical reflection and inquiry.

Assessment Methods:

• Critical reflection on personal practice in an HE context.

• Integration of pedagogical theories and research into practice.

• Engagement in pedagogic research.

• Demonstration of academic and professional practices.

• Collaboration with peers and a 'critical friend'.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching and learning strategies to facilitate participant engagement and development.

Strategies:

• Sharing of best practices across disciplines.

• Critical engagement with the development of teaching practices.

• Enhancing the quality of students' learning experience.

Faculty:

The program is delivered by experienced tutors, leading researchers, and practitioners in their respective fields.

Unique Approaches:

The program incorporates workplace 'critical friends' to support participants in their development and provide constructive feedback. This approach fosters a collaborative learning environment that encourages reflection and growth.

Careers:

The program prepares participants for careers in higher education teaching and support roles. Graduates can pursue positions such as lecturers, tutors, academic developers, and educational researchers.

Potential Career Paths:

• Lecturer
• Tutor
• Academic Developer
• Educational Researcher
• Learning and Teaching Advisor

Career Outcomes:

The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen careers within higher education. Graduates are prepared to:

• Effectively teach and support student learning.

• Engage in research and scholarly activities.

• Contribute to the development of high-quality educational programs and practices.

Other:

Study Facilities:

Bristol:

The program is based in Bristol, a vibrant city with numerous cultural and recreational opportunities.