The University is to establish a new Virtual Development Framework to support the renewed focus on quality, collegiality and sustainability set out in the Simply better strategy. Development of the Framework follows a review last year of the work of the Institute for Learning Innovation and Development (ILIaD).
The new Framework will support delivery of key elements of the University strategy by ensuring that staff development, education, research and technical solutions work together to address the changing external environment.
During 2016, a review of ILIaD concluded that the continuing provision of effective and sustainable support for staff development and technology-enhanced education would be best addressed by embedding the functions previously based in ILIaD within iSolutions, the Library, the Faculty of Social, Human and Mathematical Sciences, and Human Resources.
To fulfil the University’s strategic commitment to invest in its people in order to deliver quality in all areas of our work, a new Leadership and Management framework will be established by Human Resources. This framework will support development of generic leadership and management skills and the progression of all staff. It is envisaged that a new virtual hub will be established to provide details of the wide range of staff development opportunities and resources.
The University is also introducing the Centre for Higher Education Practice (CHEP) within the School of Education to allow the University to provide comprehensive world-leading professional development for those engaged in research and teaching activity at all stages of their academic careers. The new Centre will support academic development, underpinning excellence to address the requirements of the TEF and REF.
A new Learning Technologies and Digital Innovation Group will support the development, delivery and sustainability of innovative digital content, on-line learning and learning technologies including multimedia, blended learning, on-line and new technologies for use in education, research and enterprise. This area of work will enhance University’s ranking and reputation by improving quality, engagement and outcomes of the student education experience.
Professor Alex Neill, Vice-President (Education) commented:
The further development of a group dedicated to learning technologies and digital innovation is crucial to the success of our new education strategy and to delivering an improved experience for both students and staff.
University President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Christopher Snowden said:
These new teams will provide a Virtual Development Framework that will allow us to continue our mission as a University that is changing the world for the better.
