Negotiated Work-Based Learning at the University of Teesside

1. Negotiated & Work-Based Learning at the University of Teesside Dr Ruth Helyer & Dr Elaine Hooker Centre for Lifelong Learning University of Teesside, UK

2. Negotiated & Work-Based Learning University of Teesside Negotiated Learning Programme Experience � work, paid, voluntary, life AP(E)L � experiential AP(C)L � certificated

3. Degree Structure Honours degree = 360 credits 120 at each of three progressive levels. Programme offers advanced standing Potentially 300 credits 3 levels 8 years

4. Building Blocks One module = 10 credits Generic core modules Appropriate modules from academic schools Work-based projects

5. The APEL Process Make Your Experience Count Associate Student status 4 taught sessions Personal tutorials Self-directed study Assessed by portfolio of evidence Plus reflective essay

6. Titles BA (Hons)/MA Graphic Design BA (Hons)/MA Professional Studies in Education BA (Hons)/MA Humanities BSc (Hons)/MSc Social Studies BSc (Hons)/MSc Psychological Studies BSc (Hons)/MSc Sports Studies BSc (Hons)/MSc Combined Sciences BSc (Hons)/MSc Engineering Studies BSc (Hons)/MSc Health and Social Care Studies BA (Hons)/MA Business BA (Hons)/MA Business Management

7. Initial Modules Make Your Experience Count � 10 credits Level 1 or 2 Runs every semester � two enrolment opportunities Returning to Learning � 10 credits Level 1 Information Skills in the Learning Resource Centre (library)� 10 credits Level 1

8. Other Options Modules from other HE providers Parts of courses Courses from work at HE level

9. Core Modules Independent Programme Planning (includes Learning Agreement) -10 credits at each level (as appropriate) Personal Development Plan � 10 credits at levels 1 & 2 (as appropriate) Continuing Professional Development � 10 credits Level 3 Reflective Essay (part of assessment for all the above) Research Methods � 20 credits at Level 2 or 3

10. Cost �100 per 10 credit module Credits for previous learning, either experiential or certificated are free � this is under review

11. Support? Personal tutor Academic tutor Dedicated scheme administrator Summer University Blackboard (web-based platform) ODL route?

12. Typical Student? Business Professionals Teaching Professionals (including Assistants, Mentors, Technicians, Learning Ambassadors) Engineers Police Officers Health Care Professionals Case Studies of recent/current students.

13. July 2005, FACE Conference, Cork Dr Ruth Helyer , Work-Based & Negotiated Learning Manager Centre for Lifelong Learning University Of Teesside Borough Road Middlesbrough TS1 3BA UK (01642) 384268 r.helyer@tees.ac.uk

14. APEX-Aimhigher Funded Project Accredited Pathways to Excellence Aim: to identify & accredit in-company training at HE level To assist employers with staff development Embedding good practice within the larger University

15. What is accreditation? The formal recognition of achievements of an individual, linked to an internal or external standard. We utilise this process to approve credit for work based learning through company training programmes.

16. Outcomes include: Research national best practice Assessment of accreditation procedures Engagement with other departments, HE institutions and FE partner colleges Direct application of an accreditation service in the private, public and voluntary sectors

17. Specific targets are: In-company activity where 50 learners receive University of Teesside or partner FE college accreditation 20 learners progress to further study at university or college Accreditation of training programmes delivered by 5 private sector companies in the Tees Valley, including at least one in Darlington

18. A year long project To be completed by July 2005, undertaken in the Tees Valley, North East of England

19. Traditionally An area of heavy industry, iron & steel making, shipbuilding and chemicals Still significant in the local economy but there has been major shift in employment terms

20. Manufacturing industries now represent below 15% of all employment Whilst the service sector is responsible for over 77% (ONS)

21. Region also: Has above the national average number of people of working age with no qualifications Compares favourably with lower qualification levels but fares poorly at higher level qualifications

22. Three methods to give credit for in-company training programmes: Accreditation of prior learning � APL either experiential or certificated Mapping university level descriptors to training programme outcomes with appropriate assessment and quality assurance Provide programmes with credit built in

23. Costs Secured funding means that we can offer consultation free of charge (at the moment) This acts as an extra incentive for company involvement For future practice a fee structure will be developed

24. Main selling points to employers: Development of staff Learning through work Research active employees Well informed, innovative staff Company learning culture to enhance the skills of staff Customised training programmes that carry credit Networking

25. Types of companies involved: A local retail food company with convenience stores and supermarkets Several local borough councils A local Port Authority Two local engineering companies (one in Darlington) A primary health care trust Two local training providers A newspaper and media company The local community football project A local SureStart group A local mineral mining company

26. Work Based Learning requires: Support Progression Welcoming educational institutions Some kind of distance learning provision Flexible programmes with relevant assessment

27. Thank you for listeningJuly 2005, Face Conference, CorkDr Elaine HookerCentre for Lifelong LearningUniversity of TeessideBorough RoadMiddlesbroughTS1 3BA(01642) 384265e.hooker@tees.ac.uk