Date: 29th June 2012
Venue: Aston University, Main Building, SW 309
Increases in student numbers over the past 10 years mean students need to be taught in large groups. At the same time, students have greater expectations of staff particularly as a result of fee increased. This means lecturers have to find ways in which the individual student feels that they have had a personal learning experience at university. Despite advances in technology, the format of a set piece lecture being at the centre of learning continues and the large lecture is still a feature of undergraduate experience – especially in the first year.
This workshop will explore how very large lectures (500+ students) can be made to feel personal – even to the students at the back of the hall.
The workshop focuses on a case study of a module of 1,000 students which receives excellent student ratings for interactivity and overall experience which has been developed over a 12 year period without a great deal of resource. The module requires students to write essays which is a skill often thought to be impossible in large groups, but has achieved through an innovative menu of support both online and in person. Importantly, the workshop will also explore initiatives attempted in the past that have not proved successful.
The workshop will explore specific issues brought by attendees with the aim that all take away practical ideas for implementation in their own institution. Ample opportunity will be provided for networking and informal conversations.
To enable a free exchange of experiences, the workshop will operate under the Chatham House Rule.
