Who is the Programme for?
Any member of academic or academic-related staff who is involved in teaching at the University of Aberdeen can apply for a place on the programme, although the Programme is geared towards the needs of lecturing staff in particular. Alternative forms of support exist for teaching fellows, teaching assistants and postgraduate demonstrators, and an alternative programme to support these roles is available.
Programme rationale
The programme is designed to meet the needs of both new lecturing staff who might lack a detailed background in learning and teaching, and is also available to established members of academic staff who wish to gain formal recognition for their teaching. The Programme provides an extended, formal and externally recognisable course in the methods and philosophies of learning and teaching in higher education. The programme is undertaken through part-time study, accommodating the parallel duties of academic staff. By the strategic use of situated learning opportunities, it is possible for participants to view their teaching activities as case study materials, and use them accordingly as evidence of professional development. The emphasis in the programme is on continuing professional development (CPD), and the provision of learning opportunities for the individual to undertake, reflect and act upon.
How is the Programme delivered?
The Programme is delivered flexibly, allowing it to fit with the duties of academic staff at the university.
- If you are a new or probationary member of staff, we recommend that you follow the face-to-face route, delivered via a series of afternoon workshops (Wednesdays at 2pm), and followed up by small group sessions with colleagues from the programme.
- If you are an established member of staff, you are free to follow the above pathway.
What does the Programme involve?
The Programme is rated at 60 credits at SCQF level 11 (Masters’). There is a corresponding workload associated with this. However, with a strong emphasis on situated learning, much of the case material will be developed from your existing teaching duties. The following is a guide to the approximate time commitment required:
- Course 1: Seven workshops (approximately every three weeks), group meeting every three weeks (with a short, formative assessment attached), two summative assessments.
- Course 2: Three workshops (approximately every three weeks), group meeting every three weeks (with a short, formative assessment attached), two summative assessments, one of which is a project based on your teaching.
What qualification do I receive?
The Programme is fully validated by the University of Aberdeen, and is accredited externally by the Higher Education Academy (HEA). Upon successful completion of the first course (30 credits), you will be able to apply for Associate Fellowship of the HEA. Completion of the full 60 credits gains the Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Learning & Teaching, and entitles you to apply for Fellowship of the HEA.
What is covered in the PG Cert HELT Programme?
Course 1:
- Theories of Learning
- Aspects of reflective practice
- Planning and methods for teaching and learning
- Approaches to teaching and evaluating your teaching (including peer observation of your teaching)
- Online tutoring
- Assessment and feedback
- Pedagogy in the disciplines
Course 2:
- Research-led teaching
- Frontiers of technology: implications for learning and teaching
- The political dimensions of UK Higher Education
PLUS a short (3000 word) project based on your teaching
How much will it cost?
The Programme is delivered as part of the University of Aberdeen’s programme of professional educational development. There is no direct cost to either you or your School provided that you are a member of University of Aberdeen staff.
Further details
Please contact us (clt@abdn.ac.uk, ext. 3030) if you would like further details on any aspect of the Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Learning & Teaching