Right on everyone! Josh here with a little update about what I’ve been up to so far.
Right on everyone! Josh here with a little update about what I’ve been up to so far.
I’ve been meeting with Faculty Deans, Heads of Departments and Academic Representatives setting up frequent 121’s to build stronger relationships and create more opportunities to share good practice. I want to make sure that student feedback is heard at every level and that we work together to improve your experiences. (along with sitting in hundreds of meetings so far!)
Reducing Deadline Stacking
One of my two priorities this year is reducing deadline stacking.
I organised a networking session with Faculty Deans and Heads of Departments, bringing together existing research on deadline stacking and assessment. We looked at what is already working across the University and I presented 9 key recommendations for reducing the pressure you face. (look out for updates on this!)
I recognise that completely removing deadline stacking would be near impossible without reducing the choice on your courses. Instead, my recommendations focus on reducing unnecessary bunching of deadlines and helping you too manage your workload further in advance, recognising that students are also balancing work, commuting, caring responsibilities and other pressures outside university.
Bana (VP wellbeing and diversity) and I have also put together a student support services leaflet, bringing key academic, wellbeing and practical support into one place. This will be available at Freshers’ fair, the help desk, and in community cupboards. We will also be giving them out during assessment periods, so you can easily find the support available when you need it.
Improving the Quality, Consistency and Accessibility of Teaching
Whilst NSS teaching scores went up overall this year I appreciate that experience varies massively and want to build on the progress already made and help make sure every one of you can have a consistent and accessible academic experience.
I have also been taking part in University of London Worldwide Periodic Departmental Review panels, representing the student perspective in reviews of academic quality, standards, and programme delivery. Furthermore, I will be working with the University to make the review process more transparent, so you know what standards your courses are held too.
Moodle has also been an area seeing mixed feedback, something the SU and academic reps have been raising frequently with the university. And in response, the University has been developing a new Moodle template! I’ve worked with the Moodle Working Group and Library to help finalise this template, which will be rolled out across departments over the next academic year. This will make for a more consistent and accessible experience when using Moodle, regardless of your course.
Additionally, I will be putting together a “make the most of your education guide”, including advice on what is available to you! And finally, I have planned, and will be running, an Education Experience Policy Forum, giving you the opportunity to let us know what works well and what needs some work! Which will ensure that your experiences guide my work.