The University of Plymouth Colleges Faculty Essential Staff Handbook 2011-12

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Welcome

Welcome to the University of Plymouth Colleges (UPC) Faculty Essential Staff Handbook 2011/12

This booklet provides essential signposting for findinginformation within UPC Faculty, including:

• resources for staff and students• information on scholarship and training• key contacts within UPC• information on programme management and administration

We have renamed it as ‘essential’ this year because we understand the importance of having a central key resource when juggling a busy and demanding College environment.

UPC Faculty is your gateway to a cornucopia of resources, but in an age of ‘information overload’ is it easy to miss those vital pieces of information that make a real difference to you and your students. We are trying to address these access issues for staff and students by streamlining as much information as possible through single access points.

For students - The UPC Student Welcome File is e-mailed to every student on registration. The Student Welcome File is also available at: www.help-cetl.ac.uk/upc. We include more information on this resource in section 3.

For staff - The Virtual Staff Handbook has been developed this year to help staff navigate to the key information that they need through one simple interface. Everything covered in this publication can be accessed via the Virtual Staff Handbook.

The link (https://intranet.plymouth.ac.uk/upcfacul/Handbook/) to the handbook has been e-mailed to all Registered University Teachers (RUTs). Information on the handbook can be found in section 3. In addition staff are also e-mailed the link to the UPC Student Welcome File (see above).

UPC – Providing a high quality higher education experience

A central aim of UPC Faculty is to draw on collective strength and talent (as well as the vast resources of Plymouth University) from across the College network. In recent years we have been able to help people come together and share their experiences and work for the collective good of both staff and students.

An important aspect of this is helping people to understand how they can best utilise the resources on offer which is essential in being able to provide a high quality higher education experience for both staff and students. As we enter a period of substantial change for higher education it is important to consider the value of this, and how we can continue to work together to get the best deal for both staff and students.

With a focus on quality enhancement we would encourage staff to engage with our resources and UPC networks and events in order to get the best value out of the partnership, and at the same time experience the positive support and benefits of engaging with a community of HE in FE professionals.

From Claire Gray, Staff Development and Julie Swain, Blended-Learning and Student Experience

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Contents

Within this booklet you will find:

Section 1. What you get from UPC, at a glance

Section 2. How UPC Faculty works?

Section 3. An overview of UPC e-resources 2011 for staff

Section 4. Scholarship and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Opportunities

Section 5. Workshops and in-college training sessions

Section 6. Subject Forum Information

Section 7. Plymouth University liaison staff and resources

Section 8. Teaching and Learning Directorate

Section 9. Diary Dates and Regular Events

Section 10. Key contacts in UPC Faculty

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Section 1. What you get from UPC...at a glance UPC Staff and Students Entitlements through UPC

1.1 Registered University TeachersAll staff teaching on or supporting UPC awards are Registered University Teachers (RUTs) and are entitled to RUT computer accounts. If you do not have a RUT account please contact upc@plymouth.ac.uk for the RUT application form. Please allow sufficient processing time for this request - approximately one week. If you have a RUT account but need to reactivate it or have a problem with it, please call the Plymouth University Information Learning Services (ILS) helpdesk (01752) 588588 who will be able to reset your account.

What you get from your RUT accountA Plymouth University e-mail account, (available on the Plymouth Portal under ‘My Edesk’, Email, calendar, contacts (OWA)). You may wish to forward mail from this account to your college account. Instructions are available from the homepage of UPC Faculty (the staff community of UPC). It is important to forward your e-mail on to keep current with University communications. Please note you need to be using Internet Explorer (IE) as it will not work within Firefox. A tool has been designed for Mac users who cannot or have not got access to a Windows machine running Internet available at http://upc-redirect.plymouth.ac.uk. If you run the tool on a Windows machine, it tells you to use the guide on the UPC portal community to set the redirection up through IE and will not let you proceed further.

Your RUT account gives you access to a comprehensive range of materials and information on the portal – a good starting point for exploring resources is to go the UPC Faculty Community and use the left hand menu to go to the Resources for Staff pages. There you will find information and links including CPD, e-resources and presentations from conferences and events. This community also houses the information, templates and guidance for all UPC Quality Processes. You may also find it useful to access the Student Community (UPC General) which allows you to view student specific information.

There are downloadable guides to get you familiar with UPC Faculty and UPC General available from the homepage of both communities. RUTs can also apply for an Associate ID card which gives swipe access to the library on main campus. The application form can be found on UPC faculty, Processes & Templates. Students can also apply for a Plymouth University student card and become a member of the Students Union.

PasswordsStudents are also registered Plymouth University students and computing accounts are generated for students within 24-48 hours of college confirmation of registration. Your HE Administrator (or equivalent) will be able to confirm receipt of student account details during induction. UPC works with ILS to generate these passwords on receipt of the information so that students can start accessing Plymouth University resources almost immediately.

New for 2011-12A password changer tool which allows designated staff in your college permissions to change staff passwords is now available in some Colleges. For further information please contact your HE Administrator or julie.swain@plymouth.ac.uk.

Alternately any password queries can be resolved via the ILS staff helpdesk on (01752) 588588.

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1.2 The UPC Faculty CommunityThe UPC Faculty Community on the University portal http://intranet.plymouth.ac.uk/upcfacul/intranet.htm houses a wealth of key information. This community also includes links to e-resources through UPC and general Plymouth University resources for staff and students. UPC General available at: https://intranet.plymouth.ac.uk/upcgen/intranet.htm is the student community site (staff can access this too) which is the focus for student resources through UPC Faculty and the University. Staff are advised to check out the range of information and resources available to students through this community as it is an invaluable tool for Programme Leaders in induction.

Documents that you have uploaded to your e-portfolio are known as assets and these can be submitted via your e-portfolio to Turnitin for originality checking simply by clicking on the Turnitin icon located in the top right hand corner of the page when viewing the asset. After a document has been submitted to Turnitin, an originality report is generated for you to view via a new icon appearing when the e-portfolio asset is viewed.

You can link directly to PebblePad by selecting My Edesk and then e-portfolio, or by following the link: http://e-portfolio.plymouth.ac.uk

For more information on this please follow the link to the 2 page guidance http://technologyenhancedlearning.net/files/2011/02/PPad_TII4.pdf.

The Complete M’e’We have made this interactive available from the following link http://www.help-cetl.ac.uk/upc/completeMe/. This e-resource now includes a wealth of resources for staff to use with students for developing personal professional development.

1.3. Plymouth University Library and E-ResourcesYour computing accounts enable you and your students to access the full collection of Plymouth University e-journals and e-resources. See section 7.1

1.4 PebblePad the University’s e-portfolio system Staff and students can access PebblePad using their University username and password. From the log in page you can also access ‘Keynote’ the University’s e-pdp guidance module.

Staff and students can now access Turnitin within PebblePad. This is an Internet-based originality checking tool which allows documents to be compared with content on the Internet, in journals and an archive of previously submitted works for any matching content. The system is based entirely online allowing users to access it from any Internet enabled computer, anywhere and at any time. This is a formative tool that makes it easy for students to review their citations and referencing as an aid to learning good academic practice.

Access the UPC Faculty Community by scanning the barcode:

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1.5 UPC Faculty and Plymouth University events and opportunities

Subject Forum Events Subject Forum events are organised within and across subject forums on an annual basis.

The VC’s Teaching and Learning ConferenceThe University holds a Teaching and Learning conference every year in which practice from across the University and UPC Partners is shared. Calls for contributions and invitations are sent out via RUT accounts and also to HE Administrators for circulation.

Research CentresThe University has a number of research centres including PedRIO (Pedagogic Research Institute and Observatory) which staff in colleges may become involved in.

Fee reductionsWhere Partner College staff are supported for fees by their institution a 20% discount is available on taught programmes at including the Professional Doctorate in Education (EdD). Where not funded by the College a 10% fee discount is applicable.

Teaching Fellowships Plymouth University runs a Teaching Fellowship scheme every year where staff from the main campus and Colleges are invited to bid for project based fellowships of up to £5000. In the year 2010-11 UPC Faculty was successful in being awarded three fellowships and we would encourage staff to work with us to develop their ideas for future fellowships. The Fellowships are awarded annually at the VC’s Teaching and Learning Conference. More information can be found at: http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/pages/view.asp?page=29343

Support with Funding OpportunitiesUPC actively disseminates and supports staff making competitive bids for project and research funding.

UPC Resources, Training and CPD fundingOnline and face to face training support is available as well as UPC Enhancement Funding which offers staff some financial support for scholarship in conjunction with your College.

ProgrammeCommittees

(college based)

Joint Board of Studies

(college based)

UPC Faculty Board (University based)

Plymouth University bodies, i.e Teaching

and Learning Committee

and Academic Development Committee

(University based)

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Section 2. How UPC Faculty works?

UPC is a Faculty of Plymouth University and as such all UPC Faculty programmes benefit from the same quality assurance and enhancement processes as all Plymouth University Awards.

Wherever possible UPC Faculty devolves powers and decision-making on operational matters to Partners as staff delivering and supporting programme staff and students locally are in the most appropriate position to make day to day decisions. UPC Faculty partners are organisations in their own right and will have their own expectations of staff and students, and as part of their agreement with the University manage their Plymouth University provision according to local policies and procedures.

Plymouth University is ultimately responsible for the maintenance of the quality of the programmes offered through its partners, and students are awarded their qualifications by the University. UPC has adapted the processes of the University to enable most of the quality processes to happen locally. However are also key participants in University decision-making forums such as Faculty Board.

Because of its scale of operation UPC Faculty is also able to offer a comprehensive range of services and support to ensure quality of provision and offer students and staff access to specialist HE services and communities. This makes UPC Faculty a unique Further- /Higher Education (F/HE) partnership in terms of the level of support and resources, and the extent of collaborative practice in shared decision making.

Programme Committees (PCs)Programme Committee’s are the most essential aspect of the quality and enhancement process for each programme. The committee should encompass representation from the teaching team, library/I.T services, Academic Liaison Person (ALP, from the University) and most crucially, students.

UPC Reporting and Decision Making Processes

Programme Committees should convene twice a year (Autumn and Spring) and work through a set agenda provided by UPC Faculty. The minutes from these meetings are considered through the College Joint Boards of Studies (JBS) (see below) and actions from the minutes will be absorbed into the College Action Plan where appropriate.

Every Autumn the quality process of Annual Programme Monitoring (APM) is incorporated into the Programme Committee meeting which enables teams to consider the previous academic year, to evaluate performance and create a programme action plan.

The Spring JBS follows the Spring Programme Committee meetings and takes more of an enhancement focus.

https://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//upcfacul/procandtemps/intranet.htmThis site holds all of the templates for programme Committees including APM.

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Joint Boards of Studies (JBS)Joint Boards of Studies have been established for each College as formal sub-committees of the UPC Faculty Board. Their aim is to provide a locally based vehicle for Quality Assurance and initiation of discussions on College developments.

http://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//upcfacul/jbs/intranet.htmThis site houses the terms of reference, schedule of meetings and associated documentation.

Faculty Board The Faculty Board, which comprises representatives of the University and Partner College members, acts as the planning and strategic development forum for UPC Faculty provision, operating within the context of the Academic Co-operation Agreements signed by each College and the University.

The Board is responsible for advising the Dean on matters of academic policy, strategic development and the planning, delivery and quality of the Faculty’s academic provision.

http://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//upcfacul/facultyboard/intranet.htmThis area contains the terms of reference, schedule of meetings and associated documentation.

UPC Faculty (the team at Plymouth University)UPC Faculty has an Executive Dean, Dr Colin Williams, who is also a Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University and two Associate Deans, one for Quality, Dr Malcolm Findlay, and one for Teaching and Learning, Mark Stone.

Their roles are to represent the position of UPC Faculty in University decision making as well as working with Colleges in developing, enhancing and assuring the quality of UPC Faculty provision. College representatives also sit on Plymouth University decision making bodies and provide direct representation of the collective UPC Faculty voice.

Changes summer

2011

Email and Filespace

Studentsto for

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Section 3. An overview of UPC e-resources 2011 for Staff3.1 The UPC Student Welcome File This is available at www.help-cetl.ac.uk/upc and comprises a complete overview of services and facilities available to all UPC students. We recommend you add this link to your programme VLE site so that students become more familiar with entitlements. It includes a guide to using this resource for students. This will be e-mailed to all students on registration to support their induction into the University.

It contains the following:

•UPC Mini Guide

•Plymouth University student card application (needed for borrowing from the library) and Campus map

•Student computing account information including guides and interactive tutorials using the portal

•UPSU Student Union including course representative training materials

•UPC Library guide for both staff and students along with a virtual tour of the library and access to Lilipad (Learning Information Literacy Plymouth for Academic Development). The interactive tutorials navigating the e-resources. This also includes a direct link to the library.

•Study skills guides, including Higher Education Study Skills Toolkit (HESS) a complete study skills package signposted by level, a study learning development guides and the University plagiarism diagnostic test.

•E-portfolio – links to the University’s e-portfolio tool including keynote the University’s e-pdp guidance module, ‘10 steps to starting your e-portfolio’ and The Complete M’e’. This now includes access to Turnitin, the text match service and guidance on using it within PebblePad.

•Information about progression from Foundation Degree to Honours Degree including the link to the application form

•The University’s career and employability service including a link to GradSouth West

•Plymouth University rules and regulations

•Disability Support Service

•Links to other Partner Colleges

Please note: Flash Player needs to be installed to view the file.

3.2 Student E-mailAll UPC students have a university e-mail account through UPcloud, a cloud-based email, collaboration and data storage service. This will be provided by the Microsoft Live@edu service.

Live@edu is browser-based, so you will continue to be able to access all of these services from virtually any computer or mobile device with an internet connection. If you have any queries please contact UPcloud@plymouth.ac.uk

The University UPcloud service for students starts this summer 2011 with the introduction of Microsoft live@edu hosted email and data storage service.

This gives you:10GB mailbox25GB filespaceFamiliar Outlook Web Access Look and FeelAccess to a web version of Microsoft Office

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3.3 The UPC Virtual Staff HandbookWe have developed an interactive staff handbook, which echoes the form of the student welcome file. This contains all core information, guidance and links for staff working on a UPC programme. It can be found at https://intranet.plymouth.ac.uk/upcfacul/Handbook/

It includes the following:

•UPC Staff Essential Guide 2011-2012

•Student Experience including information on student charters, the Plymouth University Student Union (UPSU), the Plymouth Award, and the UPC Student Welcome File.

•Staff development guidance and the Scholarship Toolkit

•UPC and College Responsibilities including links to all quality processes and documentation

•Plymouth University key services including the Teaching and Learning Directorate, Careers and Employability, Library services, International Office and Disability Assist

•University strategies and policies

•Areas of responsibility for the university and college and calendars

•UPC resources and guidance for teaching and learning including the Complete M’e’ ,assessment and plagiarism guidance and interactive tutorials and the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) tool – Pineapple.

3.4 The UPC Moodle site available at: www.help-cetl.ac.uk/moodleThe UPC moodle site hosts a range of supporting resources such as Higher Education Study Skills (HESS), the UPC Enhancement Funding pages and the Technology Enhanced Learning Forum. This year we intend to develop an employability community drawing on the strengths of practice across the partnership and sharing good practice.

Please join the site using the address above and then click ‘create an account’ on the left hand side.

3.5 UPC Scholarship toolkit available at: http://www.help-cetl.ac.uk/upc/scholarly/This toolkit is designed to provide an awareness of the value of scholarly activity and the positive contribution that this can make to teaching and learning within a college environment. The toolkit also provides accessible resources that staff can dip into, to enable access to support research and scholarly activity.

Available in the toolkit are guides and support on the following:• Research Handbook• Conference Presentations• Poster Guide• Ethical guidance• Calendar• Guide on writing publications• Publications List• Library & RESINED• Case Studies from UPC practitioners

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3.6 Processes & Templates

http://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//upcfacul/procandtemps/intranet.htm

This is a key resource for both academic and support staff when addressing all UPC procedures and policy documents. It is always the most up to date and accurate place to obtain information and templates. Just click onto the required folder for further downloadable documentation. It is an excellent start for a new staff member teaching on a UPC programme.

Plymouth University Regulations

http://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//upcfacul/UoPregs/intranet.htmUniversity regulations and protocols are available on both staff and student UPC communities. All staff and students should be aware of Plymouth University regulations and in particular those that relate to late coursework and extenuating circumstances as well as standard regulations for running a programme of study including Subject Assessment Panels and Award Boards.

3.7 UPC Faculty Calendars

http://staff.plymouth.ac.uk//upcfacul/upcalendar/intranet.htm

This area houses calendars for UPC: the staff calendar, generic academic and administration calendar - key documents to have on your desktop.

3.8 Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) – the Pineapple tool

Recognition and accreditation of prior student learning through their work/experience is permissible under the Plymouth University regulations. A Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC) funded university project has resulted in the development of a tool to track this process and guide staff and students through the APEL process. Pineapple has been developed to help staff manage APEL claims and has been piloted within UPC. When you use Pineapple it will automatically act to record actions and also provide prompts for action. You are also able to ‘share’ your APEL cases with others such as External Examiners, ALPs and the Senior Administrator (Quality) (UPC).

We offer and would advise you to take a short training session on using Pineapple which can be delivered locally at your College. See section 5 for information on arranging locally delivered training sessions.

More information on Pineapple is available on: http://www.pineappleproject.org.uk/upc/

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Section 4. Scholarship and CPD Opportunities 4.1 CPD Enhancement Funding 2011-2012UPC is committed to supporting staff teaching on or contributing to the experience of UPC students within the faculty. To this end UPC Enhancement Funding aims to provide additional financial support, as well as a focus on the development of the UPC academic community through the dissemination of experiences and learning. Funding is offered on the basis of match funding or quantifiable support from the college.

The principles of the schemeCPD is not just accredited learning but activity that is beneficial to the academic and professional development of staff. UPC staff are expected to engage in scholarly activity as part of their normal activity as Higher Education (HE) lecturers which can include a range of activity to keep themselves up to date in their subject area.

CPD is a wider concept which is more easily recognisable in the FE sector, but can include scholarly activity as well as the development of professional practice and the application of innovation within practice. Many staff experience their first attempts at research through accredited CPD such as the dissertation components of M level courses and some staff within UPC have started to publish work which springs from engagement with such programmes. UPC also looks to staff in Colleges to develop and share innovative pedagogic practice not only within UPC, but within Plymouth University and nationally.

In a challenging financial climate there are many competing resource demands but supporting CPD and scholarship remains a priority for UPC. In order to spread the support available from UPC further the UPC Enhancement Funding for this year is capped at £200 per application. As in the past this should be matched by College support for the activity.

How to access fundingActivities that can be funded include:• M Level modules• Conference attendance• Specialised training• Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) project work

Full details on funding and the application process as well as information about CPD options and routes is accessible via: www.help-cetl.ac.uk/moodle and select the UPC Enhancement link on the left-hand side.

If you do not already have a moodle account register for one at this address and the UPC Enhancement Funding area will be available on the left hand side box. This site also provides an area for sharing ideas and feedback on experiences.

Julie Osborn

Julie Osborn has been carrying out research into the experienced of disabled learners. The results of her research have been widely disseminated and she has actively supported other practitioners to develop their research interests. Encouraged by the success of this project, Julie completed an MSc, and with support from the UPC CPD enhancement presented this research at the Division of Occupational Psychology annual conference in January 2011. This year she has been awarded a Plymouth University Teaching Fellowship and is just about to embark on a UPC sponsored PhD which will investigate ways that tutorials might be more effective in the College environment.

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4.2 ScholarshipStaff development and CPD opportunities can be usefully employed to further develop your scholarship. HE related staff development activities tend to focus on the generic staff development needs for your HE teaching responsibilities. It is within the remit of CPD that there is a greater opportunity to shape and develop your personal goals and scholarship interests.

UPC values the work that is contributed by staff in Partner Colleges to engage students and develop higher level knowledge and the application of graduate level skills. A valuable part of enabling this process is the development of the individual practitioner through a continual engagement with personal development, whether through staff development activities of a programme of specialised CPD.

Within UPC and each partner institution there are mechanisms to take forward your interests and scholarship. It is crucial is that you are able to take advantage of these opportunities by demonstrating that you are aware of your own developmental needs. Through reflection on your own scholarly activities you will be able to recognise future needs which can be developed through your appraisal process. Identifying where your scholarship priorities are will enable you to take control of your CPD.

UPC Faculty and Higher Education Learning Partnerships (HELP) Centre of Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) have developed a Scholarly Activity Toolkit (go to the Scholarly Activity Community at: www.help-cetl.ac.uk/upc/scholarly) which includes definitions of scholarship, strategies for defining and advancing your own scholarship, advice and guidance on writing and presentations for conferences and publication. If you would like to discuss any aspect of the toolkit please contact claire.gray@plymouth.ac.uk

Research and Scholarly Activity support through UPC Faculty

Dr Robert Cook, Subject Forum Chair, Education and Scholarship and Research Co-ordinator

I will be co-ordinating Research and Scholarly activity for the forthcoming year I will be seeking to assist staff in developing the quality of their Higher Education provision throughout the partnership. This will be a two-way process, of course. There are ways in which academic staff from UPC and the cognate faculties will be able to improve their support for College staff in areas concerned particularly with the delivery of HE quality in their teaching. At the same time staff at the Colleges will have a new avenue for requesting assistance or suggesting areas in which colleges, programmes, and individuals might improve the HE quality of the education they offer.

There are, obviously, fewer research opportunities available to staff but I will be ensuring that such opportunities that do arise are disseminated appropriately. I will also be promoting closer links between the various research networks at Plymouth University and the staff at the Partner Colleges, and also seeking to encourage networking between programmes and colleges in order to stimulate research interests and collaborations wherever possible.

I will, of course, be working closely with Claire Gray, our Staff Development Co-ordinator, in identifying ways in which we can help and advise staff in developing their own scholarship in conjunction with Plymouth University. I would like to invite you to contact me to discuss any research and scholarly development issues – on:robert.cook@plymouth.ac.uk or call me on (01752) 585374.

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4.3 South West Learning Skills Research NetworkThe SWLSRN is part of the LSRN, a national network established in 1997 to help people engage with research. The network aims to build research capacity by connecting people, providing a platform to share experience and ideas developed through the research process and support dissemination. In Autumn 2010 Claire Gray and Robert Cook took responsibility as local convenors of the SWLSRN. As part of this role Claire and Robert take responsibility for informing members of forthcoming funding and dissemination opportunities.

4.4 The Higher Education Academy (HEA) - Professional Recognition SchemeThe aim of this scheme is to raise the status of teaching in higher education and provides individuals with the opportunity to gain recognition as an:• Associate• Fellow

It is referenced to the UK Professional Standards Framework (UK PSF) to which UPC is committed. Recognition is a portable asset, with UK-wide relevance. It is increasingly valued by higher and further education institutions.

Routes for recognition:UPC offers in collaboration with the Faculty of Education, Health and Society and Educational Development a module on the International Masters Programme (IMP) and Post Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP) programmes (HE in FE contexts) through which completion will lead to Associate status. This module can be delivered locally in colleges by arrangement with Claire Gray. Successful completion of the full PGCAP programme (60 credits) leads to Fellowship status.

Staff with at least three years experience of delivering HE may make a direct application to the HEA (information on www.heacademy.ac.uk) for Fellowship status.

UPC offers half day workshops for staff to help get the process started and give guidelines for successful application. The recognition fee for successful applications is £50 and may be applied for as part of UPC Enhancement Funding where the College will agree to co-fund the application.

Recognition confers HE professional status which enhances your personal profile, and can also benefit your institution as has been highlighted by a number of IQER reviews. Associates of the Higher Education Academy are entitled to use the post nominal letters AHEA, and Fellows the letters FHEA.

For more information on the scheme please go tohttp://www.heacademy.ac.uk/professional-recognition

4.5 Postgraduate Study OpportunitiesPlymouth University offers a comprehensive range of postgraduate study.

Details on these opportunities are available at: http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/pages/view.asp?page=19930

Information on scholarships and bursaries is also available at: http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/money

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Education-based postgraduate programmes

The International Masters Programme (IMP)

www.plymouth.ac.uk/imp

The IMP is run by the Faculty of Education, Health and Society and is a flexible credit based qualification which can be ‘built’ within a five year registration window.

There is a comprehensive catalogue of IMP modules to choose from which can meet the needs of staff teaching in a broad range of educational environments. Staff can also choose to take Independent Study Modules (ISMs) which are designed around the practice and interests of the learner.

UPC has been working with the IMP team to deliver some modules in Colleges by arrangement with the College HE Co-ordinator where there is a viable cohort of staff (usually 10). The two modules most commonly run in this way are ‘HE in FE contexts’ and ‘Educational management in a time of change’.

Other modules can be delivered in this way by arrangement, or learners can negotiate group ISMs where there may be a shared interest in a particular area. If you would like to discuss your options with a tutor you can contact Ken Gale or Liz McKenzie who teach across the programme including the HE in FE contexts module.

The final stage of the IMP is RESINED (Research in Education) which consists of a 10 credit research proposal stage followed by a 50 credit research project. RESINED is supported by extensive online resources which are openly available:http://www.edu.plymouth.ac.uk/resined/

Costs: All Partner College staff are eligible for a reduced course fee for postgraduate taught programmes - 20% where full fees are met by the college, and 10% where staff are supporting themselves.

For staff teaching on or supporting UPC programmes and students there is the possibility of additional support through UPC from the UPC Enhancement Fund; contact Claire Gray for further details, or go to: www.help-cetl.ac.uk/moodle and log on to the UPC Enhancement Community.

From 2011 the cost of 30 credit IMP modules is £550 but with the discount (20%), this is reduced to £440.

Contact Details:For further information about the International Masters Programme, please contact: imp@plymouth.ac.uk or email:

Ken Gale k.j.gale@plymouth.ac.uk

Liz Mckenzielmckenzie@plymouth.ac.uk

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The PostGraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP)

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/pages/view.asp?page=28215

The PGCAP is a Higher Education teaching award which is a necessary qualification for all staff teaching at Plymouth University who do not hold relevant teaching qualifications, or who have less than three years full-time experience as an academic in HE.

Teaching staff in FE Colleges are also required to gain a recognised qualification for the teaching and learning sector if they do not already have one and are usually offered the PTTLS and DTTLS programmes. UPC also expects staff to be working towards accreditation by the Higher Education Academy (HEA) if they are teaching on UPC programmes. Staff wishing to gain their HEA Fellowship can do so through completion of the PGCAP 60 credit M level programme.

Some staff may just wish to complete the ‘HE in FE contexts’ module (offered through both IMP and PGCAP) which will offer Associate recognition with the HEA. The PGCAP modules are delivered on Tuesday mornings throughout term time, with the core module in ‘Academic Practice’ beginning in September. An intensive one week version of this module is also offered in January. Full attendance is required from all participants.

The programme is heavily subscribed and priority places are offered to those who must complete the PGCAP as a probationary requirement. It is always a good idea to register your interest early. A clear benefit of the PGCAP is the focus on HE practice which gives HE in FE staff the opportunity to reflect on their work as HE academics within a HE community as well as gaining HEA recognition. Completion of the PGCAP will give staff advanced standing on the IMP programme, which effectively means that the credits gained on PGCAP count as the first 60 credits towards the IMP.

Costs: The cost for a 30 credit PGCAP module is currently offered at £750 for attendance and a further £750 for assessment, giving a total of £1500. The costs for a 15 credit module are £375 for attendance and a further £375 for assessment, giving a total of £750. Staff are encouraged to apply for CPD Enhancement Funding to co-fund PGCAP modules with support from their institutions.

Contact Details:Programme Director for PGCAP - Pollyanna MagneTel: 01752 587610 E-mail: P.Magne@plymouth.ac.uk

Programme Administrator, Educational Development -Sara Meredith Tel: 01752 587608 E-mail: sara.meredith@plymouth.ac.uk

Professional Doctorate in Education (EdD)

http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/taught/3960/Professional+Doctorate+in+Education

The Professional Doctorate in Education (EdD) is a doctoral level programme for anyone involved in an educative role within a professional discipline. Its focus is on the ways in which learning can be understood and might be developed in a professional context. In this respect the title ‘Professional Doctorate’ signals that it is both for professional people and about the nature of professional practice and its development.

The EdD is a part-time programme studied over five years: two years of taught modules followed by three years of supervised independent research leading to a thesis. Face-to-face teaching is centred around 3x2-day workshops per module, with tutorial time and related directed study online around these. Each workshop runs from Friday to Saturday late afternoon.

Costs: The full cost is currently £2250 per year but the 20% fee reduction is available where candidates are supported through their institutions. Partner College staff sponsoring themselves are eligible for a 10% fee discount.

Contact Details:If you would like to discuss this programme please contact the course director: nick.pratt@plymouth.ac.uk,tel: 01752 585322 or for general enquiries please contact: edd-programme@plymouth.ac.uk

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Section 5. Workshops and in-college training sessions Training and development with UPCFor the last five years we have worked with Colleges to develop locally delivered training sessions for HE staff. Our experience has shown that local College sessions are most successful when we respond to specific requirements and tailor sessions for each College according to local need and demand. We are also happy to work with small groups/teams in specific areas such as the development of blended learning, or writing programmes and can draw on specific expertise in UPC and Plymouth University to satisfy these needs.

In this section we include workshops that we have successfully delivered, however if you would like anything in particular please contact us to discuss your requirements. Additionally you can now follow UPC Enhancement on Twitter where we keep you up to date with Plymouth University developments, key dates and opportunities for staff and students: http://twitter.com/UPC_Enhancement

Workshops or small group sessions and support Systems and good practice in HE processes:• Delivering a UPC Programme • Developing a Programme with UPC• Academic Regulations Workshops• Panel and Board Training• APEL Claims and Using the Pineapple Tool• Using Peer Review for HE in FE staff• Quality Assurance and Quality Enhancement for HE Programmes

Teaching and Learning:• Good Practice in Assessment workshops• Self and Peer Review in Assessment• Online Assessment Tools• Assessment in HE - Getting the Level Right • Audio Feedback in 3 easy steps – Sounds Good!• Personal Development Plan (PDP) and PebblePad - Using PDP in your Programme • Endnote Web online Referencing Software• Information literacy and plagiarism educational tools • Developing career management and employability within your programme• Using ‘XING’ to develop graduate skills

Tools and Resources available through UPC:• The Plymouth Portal: Introduction for new staff or refresher course• Using e-journals – advanced subject specific session• Tools to embed the University e-resources into your programmes with particular focus on progression to Stage 3• Building Web 2.0 within your curriculum• Technology in Practice – developing case studies to enhance & embed in collaboration with RSC JISC.

The UPC Enhancement Roadshow:Additionally we commit a dedicated two days per year per College/campus by arrangement with your HE Co-ordinator or Manager. These days are designed to be tailored to meet specific college needs and are an opportunity to discuss programme issues and staff development with managers and staff across the College. Roadshow dates will be confirmed with HE Co-ordinators and disseminated to HE staff. We look forward to meeting staff and identifying the ways that UPC and Plymouth University can support you and your students. If you have any questions about the Enhancement Roadshow then please contact us:claire.gray@plymouth.ac.uk or julie.swain@plymouth.ac.uk

HE Admin E-Newsletter and HE Admin Forum:On a monthly basis an e-newsletter is produced by Gemma Feaver, UPC Assessments Manager and circulated to all HE Administrative staff throughout the UPC Faculty Partnership. The newsletter provides information on news from throughout the Partnership, updates on both new and current processes, proceedures and templates and also information on forthcoming events. Annually UPC Faculty hosts an HE Admin Forum which brings together HE administrators from throughout the Partnership providing an excellent opportunity to network and share good practice. The event is often held in one of our Partner Colleges and comprises of a mixture of both large group and small breakout sessions which are not just led by staff from UPC Faculty and Plymouth University but are also often led by HE Administrative staff from the Partner Colleges. UPC Faculty also hosts an annual enrolment event.

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Section 6. Subject Forum Information

Subject Forum InformationUPC operates across five Subject Forums which, while broadly reflecting the various University Faculties, are not constrained by arbitrary Faculty boundaries. Instead, they have been designed to gather together cognate disciplines in recognition of the developmental needs of the UPC partnership. Currently, there are UPC Subject Forums for Science & Technology, Arts & Humanities, Business, Education, and Health.

As an academic member of staff involved in delivering a Plymouth University award at a Partner College you will be associated with a cognate UPC Subject Forum. You will have close contact with your Subject Forum Chair (SFC), particularly in managing quality assurance aspects such as Annual Programme Monitoring (APM), and you may also be invited to events that are specifically organised for your Subject Forum.

The key areas of activity for UPC Subject Forums are, quality assurance and enhancement, curriculum development, and progression of students to the University. Providing support for academic staff in Partner Colleges is fundamental to these aspects, so SFCs work hard to develop a collegiate community founded upon scholarship and critical friendship. Along with the UPC Staff Development Co-ordinator, SFCs liaise with College staff to identify specific needs that may be addressed on a one-to-one basis or prompt the organisation of a bespoke event that is open to all UPC partners. In managing the delivery of Forum activities, the SFCs work closely with Academic Liaison Persons (ALPs) whose role is to provide a subject-specific point of contact for college academic staff. Most Plymouth University Awards delivered in Partner Colleges have designated ALPs, though on occasion the SFC may also act as ALP where he/she has requisite subject knowledge and experience.

Whenever Subject Forum events are organised, dates and venues are circulated to HE Administrators and HE Co-ordinators in Partner Colleges. Details are also advised in the UPC Staff Development calendar and on the front page of the UPC Faculty community which is part of the Plymouth University Portal. All Subject Forum events are currently free of charge to college staff delivering Plymouth University awards.

Contact details for all SFCs can be found on page 31.

UPC Faculty Subject Forum Chairs

Dr Ross Pomeroy, Science and Technology

With a wide range of programmes spread across the majority of our partners, Science and Technology is a large and diverse subject forum. Programmes range across: agriculture, horticulture, conservation, food, animal, marine, environmental, sports and forensic sciences, IT and computing, electrical, mechanical and civil engineering, vet nursing, archaeology, psychology, sound engineering and Flag Officer Sea Training. From my personal view point I’m particularly jealous of those running programmes with my own particular flavour of the perfect work/life balance … e.g. surf, science and technology, tournament golf and yacht operations.

Through their Plymouth University Awards, what all of these programmes have in common is that they extend the ‘brands’ of subject areas within individual schools within the University’s Faculty of Science and Technology (FoST). Fundamentally the interests of our separate institutions are therefore brought together by what the programmes represent within Plymouth University. The outcome is that the SF, in its holistic sense (not just me as the SFC), should focus in on two parts: firstly that a level of quality can be assured and secondly on how to enhance that quality. The way this is managed is through the annual programme monitoring (APM) process, and it is the SFC’s role to chair the activities the make up this process.

At HE level the curriculum of a programme is defined by the programme teams themselves and, as such, development and enhancement activities do not just involve curriculum but also the staff themselves. Although Plymouth University does not employ or manage the activities or work loads of the staff who deliver on programmes within the partnership, Programme Committee Meetings (PCM) and the APM process offers key opportunities for identifying developmental and enhancement activities that are key to assuring, and beneficial to enhancing, quality. The subsequent reporting of this by the SFC at JBS therefore enables each Partner’s senior management to align those perceived needs with their own strategies, and therefore determine what is appropriate for their own College’s needs. I look forward to working with you all in the year ahead.

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Chris Groucutt, Arts and Humanities

The strength to the Arts Forum are the individual practitioners/academics involved within it and the creative practice and associated teaching that it help support and engender. The focus of the Arts Forum are the Subject Associations which make-up its constituent parts, these being, Fine Art, Construction, Music, Graphic Design & Media, Photography, Performance & Dance, 3DD, English & History and Textiles & Fashion. It’s these established areas of dialogue and activities that will be further developed over the coming academic year via both subject specific and generic Master Classes and other events.

Our forum is driven by a distinct collection of drivers that often differ from those of other forums. This recognition of our strengths and differences are the focus of my current thinking regarding what activities can be developed that are relevant and can help support your creative and academic development. There are of course distinct differences between the range of activities that the forum encompasses, from Construction to Dance and Fine Art to History and it’s these differences I want to celebrate and build upon.

Last year the forum ran several pilot Master Classes that provided focus on specialist areas of activity. Generally the feedback from those who attended the events was very positive and this is what I have decided to focus upon for this coming academic year as the core forum activity. Reduced budgets may get tight and we may not have the cash to offer the type of events we have in the past, however, I’m determined to offer a wide range of activities which are conceived by forum members.

•Can you offer an idea for a Master Class/Workshop? •Can you offer the physical space for the class to happen (maybe during a holiday or on a Saturday)? •Do you have an idea for a possible day or half day discussion/debate? This could be about an aspect of delivery or pedagogy centred around the particular practice you are engaged with. For instance, there could be a class focused upon an aspect of the teaching of dance, or there could be a class focused on the activity of dance where members of the forum that are dance practitioners come together to dance and develop their own practice. •If you want to suggest an idea for an event or offer some form of workshop, or possibly have a particular resource that we could utilise, please drop me a line. (See key contacts in Section 10).

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Dr Robert Cook, Education

The programmes within the forum have rather greater cohesion than most other fora, as they are focused on the common theme of methods in education. In the majority of programmes there is a focus on aspects of Early Childhood studies. Others are concerned with wider and more general aspects of education, studying the nature of “education” in various ways or by focusing on the more specific considerations of artistic, therapeutic, outdoor, youth work, or environmental approaches and concerns. There is a forum gathering once a year, normally just before Christmas, when matters of common interest are presented and discussed. This is, of course, also a useful opportunity for staff from the various colleges to meet informally as well as with staff from the University programmes to which their students will often progress. There is also a popular “Work Based Learning” group that meets annually to discuss their general and particular experiences relating to the necessary work placements for students on the FdA and BA degree programmes.

As from September 2011 the Education Faculty at Plymouth University has combined with the Health Faculty to form the “Faculty of Health, Education and Society”. Education will be one school within this faculty, headed by Will McBurnie. Generally however, the operation of the faculty will not, it seems, be significantly different. The two subject forum chairs will continue with their distinctive responsibilities.

Information will be despatched early in the year to the college staff about forthcoming events, but if you wish to discover more please contact me.

Alan Hooper, Health, Social Care and Social Science

The Health and Social Care Subject Forum encompasses a wide range of subject areas that have themes of health, wellness and people within their curriculum. In reality this core concept incorporates a diverse and contrasting group of programmes that cover the full spectrum of health related subjects from hard science, social and personal constructs through to alternative approaches. The programme areas include Complementary Therapies, Healthcare Practice, Health and Social Care, Social Science, Counselling, Environmental and Public Health. This makes planning for shared Forum events a challenging prospect. However, all programmes share a commitment to high quality delivery and enhancing the student learning experience.

Most programmes have their own internal progression routes or, due to the specialist nature of their subject areas, progress to other Universities. However, there are a growing number of programmes with students now graduating who do wish to explore the opportunities available for them at Plymouth University. For these, and any other interested students, we will be repeating last year’s very successful progression day event in the Autumn term.

From this academic year the Faculties of Health and Education are combining to form the “Faculty of Health, Education and Society”. The two separate subject forum groupings and Subject Forum Chairs will continue with their distinctive responsibilities.

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This year I will be particularly focusing on the roll out of the new annual programme monitoring process and especially its contribution to enhancing the student learning experience and capturing and sharing examples of good practice. I will send out advance details of any other events of interest throughout the year.

I try to be as contactable as possible. Given my part-time role and possible office moves email is the best way to contact me alan.hooper@plymouth.ac.uk . I am happy to respond to any requests for clarification, information, problem solving and being a sounding board for your ideas and issues. I look forward to meeting again all those I have worked with over the years and also any other staff who are new to this subject forum area.

Nigel Garland, Business

The Business Subject Forum covers a wide range of subject areas and operates across most of the Colleges in the UPC partnership. In addition to Business, Accounting and Finance and Business Management, other subject areas in the forum include Tourism, Hospitality, Events Management, Public Services, Law and Housing Studies.

One of the key student features of this forum is the provision for students to progress from a Foundation Degree at a Partner College to a full Honours Degree at Plymouth Business School, normally the final year of study, level 6. Partner College students are able to ‘top up’ to a specially designed final year programme such as BA(Hons)Public Services or as in most cases integrate into the final year of a relevant Honours Degree. Over many years success rates have proven to be high with a number of students gaining First Class and Upper Second Honours Degrees.

During the academic year the Business School offers a number of general Open Days as well as specially designed events for Partner College students. These include campus tours, experiencing a lecture delivered in a large lecture theatre and meetings with tutors and programme managers.

Research within Higher Education is becoming increasingly important and the Business Forum aims to work with Dr Robert Cook who is co-ordinating the Research and Scholarly Activity for UPC Faculty, to encourage joint research output between Partner College research active Staff and Business School Staff. The collaboration and sharing of research ideas and output may prove to be beneficial to both parties.

If you would like further information on the work of the forum, progression opportunities for your students or shared research activity please do not hesitate to contact me.

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Section 7. Plymouth University liaison staff and resources 7.1 Library Services for UPC

Information Literacy:Two of the Subject Librarians at Plymouth University have an additional role as liaison librarians for the UPC library network and are available to deliver training sessions for Higher Education (HE) in Further Education (FE) academics within their colleges. Ruth Charlton and Kate Russell are also able to advise academics on how best to approach the resources with students and cover the more advanced searching skills needed for an academic’s own scholarly updating and research. Experience has shown that where academic staff use and understand advanced e-searching tools, this enthusiasm is often cascaded to the students to make a positive difference to their learning and engagement with the library.

They also deliver awareness sessions on Plymouth systems and services to UPC librarians who will be working with HE students to introduce them to and develop their use of Plymouth resources which are an essential aspect of the Higher Education experience. This capacity building work enables college library staff to take the lead as the knowledgeable point of contact for Plymouth library queries and break down the barriers of distance access to these vital resources. The annual UPC Librarians’ Exchange of Experience Day and follow up discussions provide further opportunities for collaboration and sharing of best practice regarding Information Literacy across the partnership and preparing students for progression. UPC librarians have, in some cases, integrated Information Literacy into Higher Education Study Skills modules on offer at some of the colleges and are actively involved in teaching this. Such integration into the student learning experience validates to the student that the library is not just an optional add-on, but an integral part of their studies that can contribute to a holistic approach to higher education student support and help students manage their own learning.

Partnership Loans:There is a dedicated office within the library that facilitates access to the physical stock for UPC Colleges via postal loans and scanning and emailing of chapters and articles to College libraries. The Library Special Support Service webpage and further details can be found at: My Edesk > Library, Media & IT (ILS) > Library & Learning Environments > Special Support Services http://ilsselfhelp.plymouth.ac.uk/novo/default.asp?id=672

Key Resources:• UPC staff and students have full access to the library’s collection of e-books and e-journals.

• Some University software is available for home use for staff. More details here: https://ict-webtools.plymouth. ac.uk/workathome/default.aspx.

• Box of Broadcasts (BoB) is an off-air recording and media archive service enabling UPC staff to record TV and radio programmes for educational purposes. Students and staff can then create clips and playlists from recorded programmes and share these with others.

Help & Support:See how to quickly record programmes on BoB as well as other tips on using the library (including telephone contacts) in the UPC specific ’Get You Started’ guide for staff and students. This document is available for download on the UPC section of LiliPad (the library’s bank of how-to videos and interactive tutorials): http://informationliteracyplymouth.org.uk/upc

Ruth Charlton (Senior Subject Librarian for PCMD and Social Work) (01752) 587112r.charlton@plymouth.ac.uk

Kate Russell (Subject Librarian for Marine & Environmental Sciences)(01752) 587125 kate.russell@plymouth.ac.uk

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7.2 Plymouth University Careers Service support for University Partner Colleges

The University Careers Service provides a range of services supporting students and staff in UPC.

Job vacancies:UPC students can register with www.gradsouthwest.com to access graduate, part time, vacation and voluntary work opportunities. This includes internships, knowledge transfer partnerships and all opportunities provided through Unlocking Cornish Potential. In addition UPC Partners can use Gradsouthwest for vacancies they wish to advertise, providing a free, off-the-shelf vacancy platform. Gradsouthwest is a shared vacancy service used by all of the HE Institutions in the South West and so advertises hundreds of student and graduate opportunities every week. Gradsouthwest staff are happy to provide training and ongoing support to UPC Partner Colleges wishing to use this tool.

Information:Students and staff can use our award winning website for careers information www.plymouth.ac.uk/careers. Since we now deliver 95% of our information on-line UPC students can access virtually the same level of support as those on the University campuses. One of the most popular sections provides information on opportunities relating to subjects offered by the University. In addition, www.gradsouthwest.com provides information specifically about the south west labour market, including key sectors, internships and an employer directory. UPC careers staff are able to contact our Careers Information Manager for advice about additional HE resources they may wish to purchase for their hard copy stock and this is promoted to them through the Careers Network.

What happens to UPC graduates?The Careers Service carries out the annual Destinations of Leavers in Higher Education (DLHE) Survey, which includes all leavers from UPC institutions. Searchable data for all programmes is made available to staff on the university portal (click on ‘staff’ on the Careers Service website and follow the links) while more general information on graduate destinations and the graduate labour market is available on the careers service website. This information is vital for institutions in compiling accurate data for marketing their programmes and the new requirements for institutions to provide Key Information Statistics (KIS) for prospective students.

Foundation Degree (FD) Research:The Careers Service has collaborated with the Higher Education Learning Partnership (HELP) Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) to research the early career progression of FD graduates and has now published four studies, including data up to three years after graduation. Careers staff have contributed to training events to disseminate this information and we have sent copies of the reports to all UPC partners. The research has also been published (e.g. in the Journal of Education and Work) and disseminated at national conferences, raising the profile of UPC Faculty and Partner Colleges.

Careers Queries from Foundation Degree Students:HE Guidance is an email advisory service provided for Foundation Degree students, prospective Foundation Degree students and college advisors, provided by our careers advisers: www.gradsouthwest.com/heguidance

Careers Education and Employability Resources: In support of the University’s Employability Strategy, we provide teaching and support resources for staff relating to Career Management Skills and Enterprise Education on the staff portal http://staff.plymouth.ac.uk/ease. This includes materials to deliver ‘XING’ which Partner Colleges are able to do as part of the Plymouth University license. Training on using XING is provided by UPC; please contact claire.gray@plymouth.ac.uk

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FLUX:An annual UPC FLUX Competition (based on the XING tool) is hosted at the University, with the winning college representing UPC at the National Final of FLUX. If you would like to know more about FLUX please contact claire.gray@plymouth.ac.uk

Careers Fairs:UPC students are able to attend careers fairs hosted on the Plymouth campus, and also employer presentations. Combined Universities Cornwall (CUC) and University College Falmouth have also invited UPC students to their careers fair on the Tremough Campus - all events are publicised on the careers website.

Networking and Staff Development:The careers service hosts two meetings a year for Careers Service and other interested staff in UPC Partner Colleges for networking and staff development. This UPC Careers Network is facilitated through careers adviser, Janet Gardiner, who takes lead responsibility for work with UPC and who is a point of contact for careers staff in UPC. These sessions cover the dissemination of DLHE (Destinations of Leavers of HE) data and the FD research that the Careers Service has been doing as well as information and advice on resources. We have, in the past, delivered bespoke training to staff wanting to deliver careers education in their Colleges and also provided materials to support this. If you would like specific workshops delivered then please contact Janet Gardiner or Claire Gray.

Employer Engagement Guide:This guide, funded by the HELP CETL, is available to UPC staff on the www.gradsouthwest.com website, together with other resources for staff. It gives practical advice and information for staff wanting to increase their employer engagement activities, including local networks and contacts.

The Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS):Is the professional association for HE careers practitioners and those involved in the provision of Careers and Employability Education, Information, Advice and Guidance to current or prospective HE students and graduates. Benefits include:

• Access to a professional network, support & expertise across the sector

• Access to a very wide range of resources, publications, communications and reports

• Access to high quality tailored professional development & training support

• Access to support for quality enhancement, impact measurement & benchmarking

• Access to professional leadership and a strategic voice at national level to influence policy & practice

For details on the type of membership contact AGCAS: membership@agcas.org.uk

South West Regional Training Group:In 2012 there will be a number of regional training sessions available to you. Janet will contact you with further information later this year (2011).

For more information on any of the above contact: Janet Gardiner, Careers Adviserjanet.gardiner@plymouth.ac.uk(01752) 232763

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7.3 Plymouth University Student UnionThe University of Plymouth Student Union (UPSU) is run for students by students. All Plymouth University Students, including those studying in our Partner Colleges are entitled to be a member of UPSU, to access the support of the staff and officers of the Union, to hold an NUS card, to participate in social events and activities, and vote and stand in Union elections. For more information please visit the website www.upsu.com.

The Student Union is run by a team of sabbatical officers. The role of the Deputy President includes the exciting remit of representing Partner College Students – this year the post is held by Richard Garratt. To get in touch with the Deputy President of UPSU, please contact: deputypresident@upsu.com UPSU also employ a full time staff member - the UPC Student Experience Coordinator , Kassie Foran, who is responsible for providing a link between the students and UPSU, and promoting opportunities for involvement. If you or your students would like to get in touch with Kassie, please contact: kassie.foran@su.plymouth.ac.uk

What can UPC students get out of UPSU?

Visits from UPSU:We aim to visit all UPC sites throughout the year. Our most successful relationships with students start at induction, after we are invited to participate in induction events and activities. We can provide welcome talks, information stands, leaflets about what UPSU can do for UPC students, information about NUS cards, and give out some freebies. Past experience has suggested that this contact at the beginning of the year helps students feel more like a part of Plymouth University, as well as raising awareness of the services and activities they can access.

Following successful visits during Induction, we can provide Course Representative training, attend HE representative forums, support representatives attending JBS meetings, help with quality processes such as the student written submission for Intergrated Quality Enhancement Review (IQER), provide monthly drop-ins, raise awareness of social activities at UPSU, and provide representation for students and support students planning to progress to their final year at Plymouth.

Representation:UPSU is made up of 5 full-time officers and many part-time voluntary officers across the University and in Partner Colleges. In five colleges we also pay part-time elected officers to act as a key representative from that college, and a link person for our work with the students.

One of the ways in which UPSU sabbatical officers can support students is to attend appeals panels, or disciplinary meetings. Students can request representation from UPSU officers, or college staff may wish to invite UPSU officers to a meeting to ensure that the interests of the student are being fairly represented.

The representation structure of the Union means that there is a clear system for everyone’s voice to be heard. At the very heart of our representation system are the Course Representatives. UPSU support our Course Representatives to feel confident in raising issues at the College level for quick resolution, or if required, we can provide further assistance to raise issues in other forums.

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Support and Advice:UPSU have a free, confidential and independent advice centre, to help students with any problems they may have. Examples of the types of issues facing students include: finance problems, benefit queries, academic appeals, cases of bullying, homelessness etc. All our staff are professionally trained and can offer advice on a range of issues, including academic, housing, finance etc. To get in touch with UPSU Advice, students can email: advice@su.plymouth.ac.uk or ring (01752) 588373. A drop in service operates from the Plymouth campus, and we can also arrange to call students back if they phone us. Campaigning:We are active in making sure students get the most out of their University Experience and we run campaigns to make changes in improving students lives. Students in Partner Colleges can ask UPSU to support them in campaigning for change, as well as joining our existing regional and national campaigns. For more information on campaigning, email the Education and Welfare Officer: vpedandwelfare@upsu.com

Sports, Activities & Volunteering:UPSU has over 100 different sports clubs, societies and volunteering activities. If a student lives or studies close to the Plymouth campus, then it is very easy to get involved with activities. Out in the Partner Colleges we are here to support students who may be interested in starting up a club / society / volunteering opportunity at your campus.

Students can get in touch with our Sports Officer by emailing vpsports@upsu.com and Activities Officer by emailing – vpactivities@upsu.com This year we are launching our new UPC Varsity competition. We are looking for students from Colleges to compete in Hockey, Netball, Rugby 7’s and 5-a-side Football. Students should get in touch with deputypresident@upsu.com

The UPSU Volunteering Department provide hundreds of student volunteering opportunities, from one-day events, to ongoing once-a-week projects, from tree planting to tea dances, and online cyber-mentoring to collecting food for the food bank. Get in touch with the Volunteering Department by emailing volunteer@su.plymouth.ac.uk

Commercial Services & EntertainmentUPSU has bars, shops, an online shop and much more. All our profits go straight back into providing better services for students. UPC students are welcome to join us in Plymouth for a night out. Information about upcoming events can be found at www.upsu.com, as well being able to buy tickets online for upcoming balls and gigs. Through the online shop, students can also buy online clothing such as Plymouth University hoodies and t-shirts. Perfect for wearing to lectures!

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7.4 Teaching and Learning DirectorateThe Directorate of Teaching and Learning provides strategic leadership for teaching and learning across the University. It has prime responsibility for the successful delivery of the institution’s Teaching and Learning Strategy and works collaboratively with the faculties and other areas of the University to enhance and enrich the student learning experience.

The Teaching and Learning Directorate is led by Professor Pauline Kneale and spans the following areas:

• Educational Development (led by Dr Debby Cotton)

• Learning Development and Disability ASSIST Services (led by John Hilsdon)

• Careers and Employability (led by Marc Lintern)

• Work-Based Learning (led by Professor Stephen Gomez)

• Technology Enhanced Learning (led by Dr Neil Witt)

• Education for Sustainable Development (led by Professor Stephen Sterling)

• PedRIO (Led by Professor Pauline Kneale)

• Plymouth Award (Led by Dr David Croot)

Directorate EventsWe hope you will join us for:

• Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching and Learning Conference• Technology Enhanced Learning Showcase• Work Based and Placement Learning Conference• PedRIO conference

The Directorate works closely with UPC to publicise these events and ensure that Partner College staff are included in Directorate activities. We host a range of other activities including workshops, show and tell and drop in sessions, Teaching Fellowship Scheme and courses including the General Teaching Associates (GTA) and PostGraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP) – see Section 4.5. For more information.

For further information or queries relating to the work of the Directorate please contact us on: teachingandlearning@plymouth.ac.uk

The Directorate web site is also a central resource for information such as University Policy and Guidance, teaching resources, staff development materials, and pedagogic research http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/directorates/tld

Section 8. Teaching and Learning Directorate

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Section 9. Diary Dates and Regular Events

As a staff member of a UPC Partner College you are able to attend and participate in a range of University and UPC events. Throughout the year as events are confirmed UPC sends out notification and invitations to contribute to events. Below is a small taster of some of the confirmed and regular events scheduled for 2011/12:

Vice Chancellor’s Teaching and Learning Conference (Date TBC)This conference is held annually and provides UPC staff with a great opportunity to share in pedagogic policy and practice developments, both nationally and locally. UPC staff regularly contribute sessions to the conference and our focus at UPC this year is on supporting more staff in contributing to this flagship University event.

Plymouth University Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Showcase (28th June 2012)The University TEL showcase brings together innovative TEL practice from across the Faculties. More information will be disseminated at a later date.

PedRIO (Pedagogic Research Institute and Observatory) Conference (18 or 19th April 2012 Provisional)

Plymouth University Work Based Learning Conference (14th May 2012)

UPC Academic Staff Induction (September 2012)The UPC Staff Induction provides a comprehensive introduction to UPC for all new members of academic staff. The induction covers resources available through UPC, responsibilities of College staff and Programme Managers and the support network available through Plymouth. It gives staff the opportunity to meet ‘UPC Faculty’ staff including senior academic staff and representatives of the support services who liaise with UPC Partner Colleges.

Staff are also given the opportunity to tour the Plymouth University library and have a hands on session to guide them through the use of the extensive online library resources including e-journals. CPD opportunities and professional development through the University of Plymouth are covered as well as UPC events and opportunities.

For further information contact christina.crooks@plymouth.ac.uk(01752) 587507

UPC Administrator Induction SessionsThese half day sessions aim to provide an informal and friendly introduction for staff who are new to the administration of UPC Faculty programmes in colleges, or alternatively are a refresher for existing staff. It is an idealopportunity to meet the UPC Faculty central professional services team, have a tour of the Plymouth University campus and develop an understanding of the processes,procedures and support available for administrators from UPC Faculty. These sessions are “normally” run during the first week of each month. For details of the next session or to book a place, please contact Julia Mayer, julia.mayer@plymouth.ac.uk or 017525 587510

UPC Marketing and Communication Induction SessionsThe sessions are especially useful for new Partner College marketing staff, or they can be a valuable refresher for existing staff. The inductions are tailored to meet the needs of the attendees so topics typically include publications, events, PR and press.

They provide an excellent opportunity to meet staff from the UPC Faculty and the University’s External Relations and Communication Services team, providing a great chance to quiz staff about the methods and practices they employ. During the day (normally 10-3pm) processes and procedures will be explained, you will be shown where you can access useful resources and guides on the University’s portal, given a tour of the campus and have the opportunity to ask lots of questions!

In 2011 Shiona organised copywriting and PR writing training workshops especially for Partner College marketing and communications staff. If you would be interested in attending similar workshops, have ideas for other training days or would like to book a place at one of these sessions please contact Shiona Biggin: shiona.biggin@plymouth.ac.uk.

UPC Employability and Careers Seminar (25th January 2012)Employability has become the buzzword for evaluating the value of any degree programme. This seminar run in conjunction with the University Careers Service will examine the implications for Partner College programmes and also provide an opportunity to explore the Life Pilot tool.

UPC TEL Practitioners seminar (Date TBC)Following the success of last year’s event, we intend to repeat this seminar which draws from the excellent practice from across the partnership.

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Section 10. Key Contacts in UPC Faculty

Senior Management Team:

Dr. Colin Williams

Executive Dean and Pro Vice-Chancellor

01752 587505

c.williams-1@plymouth.ac.uk

Dr. Malcolm Findlay

Associate Dean (Quality)

01752 587512

malcolm.findlay@plymouth.ac.uk

Mark Stone

Associate Dean (Teaching and Learning)

01752 587502

m.stone-2@plymouth.ac.uk

Claire Deacon

Head of Faculty Administration

01752 587504

claire.deacon@plymouth.ac.uk

31

Subject Forum Chairs and Coordinators:

Claire Gray

Staff Development

07970386876

claire.gray@plymouth.ac.uk

Julie Swain

Blended Learning & Student Experience

07973519922

julie.swain@plymouth.ac.uk

Chris Groucutt

Subject Forum Chair (Arts and Humanities)

01752 587503

christopher.groucutt@plymouth.ac.uk

Shiona Biggin

Marketing and Communications Coordinator

01752 587514

shiona.biggin@plymouth.ac.uk

Dr. Robert Cook

Subject Forum Chair(Education)

01752 585374

robert.cook@plymouth.ac.uk

Alan Hooper

Subject Forum Chair(Health & Social Care)

01752 586706

alan.hooper@plymouth.ac.uk

Nigel Garland

Subject Forum Chair(Business & Social Science)

01752 585691

nigel.garland@plymouth.ac.uk

Dr. Ross Pomeroy

Subject Forum Chair(Science, Agriculture & Sport)

01752 587501

ross.pomeroy@plymouth.ac.uk

32

Professional Services Team:

Mark Eggins

Learning Technologist

01752 587515

mark.eggins@plymouth.ac.uk

Carol McAllister

Admissions and Resources Manager & PA to the Dean

01752 587500

carol.mcallister@plymouth.ac.uk

Tina Crooks

Staff Development and Events Administrator

01752 587507

christina.crooks@plymouth.ac.uk

Theresa Shorrock

Administrative Assistant

01752 587506

theresa.shorrock@plymouth.ac.uk

Ask us about:

Contacting the Executive Dean & PVC

Admissions queriesEvent RegistrationsUPC Staff developmentFinance Queries

RUT accountsStudent ID cardsGeneral administration enquiriesJoint Boards of Study

Jackie Sanders

Administrative Assistant

01752 587517

upc@plymouth.ac.uk

Roz Pomfret

Administrative Assistant

01752 587517

upc@plymouth.ac.uk

33

Gemma Feaver

UPC Assessments Manager

01752 587508

gemma.feaver@plymouth.ac.uk

Clare Ellison

Senior Administrator (Quality)

01752 587509

clare.ellison@plymouth.ac.uk

Ask us about:

UNIT-e resultsPanels and BoardsProgramme ApprovalsPermitted changesCPD ApprovalsSubject Forum issuesPanel and Board resultsAdministration of UPC awards

Julia Mayer

Administrative Assistant

01752 587510

julia.mayer@plymouth.ac.uk

Nikki Maclean

Senior Administrator (Programme Administration)

01752 587516

nikki.maclean@plymouth.ac.uk

Kirsty Norris

Senior Administrator (Programmes & Curriculum)

01752 587510

kirsty.norris@plymouth.ac.uk

Programme CurriculumExternal ExaminersHE Administrator InductionRepositoryStaff Changes

Quality Team:

34

Ask us about:

Processing of UNIT-e dataEnrolments Linking students to modulesStudent withdrawls and changes to records

Kim Betty

UPC Senior Enrolment Administrator

01752 586381

kim.betty@plymouth.ac.uk

Jo Bird

UPC Registry Administrative Assistant

01752 587519

jo.bird@plymouth.ac.uk

Rachel Mason

UPC Registry Administrative Assistant

01752 587513

rachel.mason@plymouth.ac.uk

Chris Stone

UPC Registry Administrative Assistant

christopher.stone@plymouth.ac.uk

Enrolment Team:

Design of this publication is attributed to:

Sophie NevillePlymouth University

The University is committed to providing information in accessible formats. If you require this publication in an alternative format, please contact the UPC Faculty on +44 (0) 1752 587517