The context for the programme
At Manchester Metropolitan University the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) operated an institutional PSF scheme accredited by the HEA up to Descriptor 4. They were particularly interested in participating in a pilot to explore ‘Remaining in Good Standing’ as they recognised that engagement in academic CPD naturally needs to be ongoing. Identifying effective ways to evidence ‘Good Standing’ of staff who teach or support learning across the institution and increase engagement in academic CPD was vital in enhancing practice and the student experience.
Engagement in this pilot followed on from MMU’s engagement with the HEA Change Academy the year before which looked at reward and recognition of teaching in career progression. It also built on the Framework for Academic Quality and Practice – an HR led University-wide project that had four elements: Induction and probation Academic CPD and Research Training Peer Review and Observation and Management Review of Teaching. The project findings were then to be be shared with HR to identify opportunities for wider implementation across the institution.
The areas intended for development
The University was very interested in participating in a pilot for Good Standing. This was to enable them to work closer with the HEA connect and collaborate with other institutions but also colleagues and departments and professional services internally especially where there are lower levels of engagement with academic CPD.
They were hoping to develop their knowledge and understanding linked to Good Standing as a means of ensuring the MMU Framework for Academic Enhancement and practice becomes embedded in individuals’ career development. They were also looking to explore opportunities and build capacity in readiness for an institution-wide implementation and identify an effective mechanism to achieve this.
MMU has a 2020 Academic Vision focusing on raising the quality of the curriculum teaching and research and one strand focuses on Programme Leaders as academic role models: this would be linked this Good Standing initiative to this aspect of their institutional development.
Through the PSF Framework staff who teach or support learning at MMU gain professional recognition. The scheme is positively received and the process has shown to encourage reflection on practice. The University wanted explore ways to develop reflective practitioners and extend engagement in academic CPD beyond the professional recognition route but also develop provision that would frame the PSF as developmental and aspirational opportunities embedded in academic practice assisting the ongoing development of teaching practices.