Programme Leaders

Programme leaders (PLs - includes Programme Leads and Subject Coordinators) and module leaders (MLs) need to deliver digitally-enabled programmes and a consistently high quality, coherent student experience across all modules within a semester at each level. This page outlines the recommended process and timeline for the development work taking place during the summer months, in preparation for September delivery. It includes downloadable tools for use by PLs.

Working together, the PL and MLs are asked to review the programme’s modules within a semester at each level for three purposes:

to be clear where programme learning outcomes are met;
to produce a manageable programme study map that summarises both the synchronous (online and/or face to face) learning events and the allocation of student time to guided and self-study asynchronously;
to produce a fit-for-purpose assessment and feedback schedule for the programme that can be shared with students.

Producing the programme study map and the assessment and feedback schedule requires collaboration and negotiation between MLs and the PL to optimise the student experience. During those discussions, the PL and MLs are asked to conceptualise their programme and modules' curricula as comprising units of study larger than one week in duration. This will maximise students’ choice in their approach and use of study time and allow them to progress flexibility and according to their own individual needs and practical constraints.

Programme Team Summer Timeline

This is stage one of the indicative timeline for the development of a digitally-enabled programme.

Programme Study Map - Examples and Templates

Example programme study maps are shown below to guide your work as well as downloadable blank templates to create your own.

“Remember two things: 1) Keep it simple, but do it well. 2) Ensure everything we do is inclusive and accessible for all students.”

Professor Anne-Marie Kilday, Pro-Vice Chancellor Student and Staff Experience

Key features of a digitally-enabled programme

All programmes and modules are expected to demonstrate the four key features of a digitally-enabled programme. Designing curricula with these features top-of-mind will ensure they are accessible and inclusive for all learners and deliver a high-quality student experience.

Programme Level Requirements Checklist - Examples and Templates

The requirements checklist summarises the expected key ways that PLs are asked to assure that the four features of a digitally-enabled programme are explicit and embedded across the modules within a programme. Many programmes will already have many of the checklist elements in place. They have been drawn from the literature and from experience at Brookes of ‘what works’ to create an inclusive and accessible programme and a sense of student belonging. Use the requirements checklist from the start to plan and develop your programme.