The final Course Rep forum of the 2018-19 academic year took place on Monday 25 March and focused on digital learning and teaching. The event saw 31 Course Reps attend.
The Head of Digital Learning and Teaching, Elaine Swift, formed the Forum's panel alongside Deputy Vice Chancellor, Sarah Greer, and Pro Vice Chancellor Students, Ross Renton.
The Forum's Chair and Vice President Education, Euan Morrison, opened the event. Euan gave an update about Change Week (which happened on 4-8 February). Since Change Week, Euan has met with School Reps in Hackathon sessions, looking at every idea submitted. Together they identified positive actions that the SU and University can take to make these ideas happen. The SU will update students in the coming months on the progress of ideas through emails, the SU website and social media.
Euan also informed Reps that applications for School Reps for the 2019-20 academic year opens on 1st April until 24th May, with interviews taking place from 27th May. For more information, Reps can visit https://www.worcsu.com/yourvoice/reps/schoolreps/apply18/.
Elaine Swift gave those present an overview of what digital learning and teaching means, as well as what the future of the university might look like with digitalisation becoming increasingly common in higher education institutions. Discussions around what a digitally capable student is was discussed and answers included needing to manage digital footprint and digital identity (especially for student teachers), tailoring CVs for different industries, and being able to identify fake news.
Students also discussed which apps and tools they use either in or outside of their course to help with their studies. All suggestions were uploaded via Padlet anonymously.
Immersive learning may play a part in the future of higher education institutions e.g. virtual realities. Technology also creates with it a more sustainable and inclusive campus. More sustainable because resources will be used electronically instead of using resources such as paper, and more inclusive because students will be able to work electronically if they are unable to physically attend university seminars and lectures for health or other reasons.
Reps who were unable to attend the Forum were encouraged to feedback via email around any digital learning and teaching issues or comments. Students can continue to use #SUdigicap if they have any further comments or feedback that they may have about digital learning and teaching. Feedback at the Forum, recieved via email, and recieved via the hashtag on social media will be used to shape the university's new learning and teaching strategy.
For a more in-depth overview, please read the minutes.