PGCPP Frequently Asked Questions

Normally 1 to 2 years (600 nominal student study hours)

What modules do I have to study?
Three standard 20-credit modules at level 7 (part-credit may be given for substantial previous experience or qualifications):

1. Delivering a high quality learning experience (SD4012)
2. Designing effective learning and assessment experiences (SD4013)
3. Researching and disseminating pedagogic practice (SD4014)

What is my attendance commitment?
About 150 study hours are designated as face to face contact hours. These include:

• 9 whole day inputs as shown in the timetable overleaf
• 4 action learning set meetings with your colleagues
• 5 lunchtime seminars
• negotiated time with your mentor and module tutors

You will also be expected to complete independent and collaborative study activities, and e-portfolio / Virtual Learning Environment task.

Is the Programme offered in a flexible mode?
The Programme can be offered in flexible delivery pattern combining face-to-face taught sessions with synchronous and asynchronous distance learning study options, which includes fully online seminars, virtual office hours and distance supervision and support. Please contact Dr Panos Vlachopoulos for more information.

How is the Programme assessed?
Assessment is through an e-portfolio from which these items are presented:

SD4012: An assignment related to the residential and away-day programmes; an activity related to VLE-based teaching and assessment; a critical incident report linking literature and theory to practice; a record of three observed teaching / student support sessions with plans, rationale and critical reflection.

SD4013: Design and evaluation of a module or short course; a record of effective assessment design, delivery and feedback practice; a record of a minimum of 20 hours of ‘independent study’ activity; a concluding report reflecting on the applications of issues and concepts encountered for own practices / contexts.

SD4014: Initial research proposal including ethical approval evidence; interim project report at half-way stage; and a final research paper of about 4,000 words.

What are the key books to read?
Three key texts will be supplied to internal participants:

• SD4012 - Biggs, J. and Tang. C. (2007) Teaching for Quality Learning at University. 3^rd ed. Open University Press / SRHE.
• SD4013 - Fry, H., Ketteridge, S. and Marshall, S. (Eds) (2008) Handbook for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education: Enhancing Academic Practice. 3^rd ed. Oxon: Routledge.
• SD4014 - Cohen, L., Mannion, L. & Morrison, K. (2007) Research Methods in Education. Routledge.

Participants may wish to consider purchasing an additional text for each module.

• SD4012 Race, P. (2007) The Lecturer’s Toolkit: A Practical Guide. 3^rd ed. Abingdon: RoutledgeFarmer
• SD4013 Bloxham S and Boyd P (2007) Developing Effective Assessment in HE: A Practical guide: Maidenhead: The Open University Press
• SD4014 Cousin, G (2009) Researching Higher Education: An Introduction to Contemporary Methods and Approaches  Abingdon: RoutledgeFarmer

What is the cost of this programme?
Aston University bears the cost of this programme for its staff. This includes text books, refreshments and accommodation.

For all other applicants, fees are payable at the standard rate for a Postgraduate Certificate. Fee payments by individual module may also bepossible.