Knowledge, skills and behaviours will be delivered through a diverse and innovative range of methods that will reflect the diversity of learners’ needs. These include participation in lectures, seminars, discussions, research and independent study, tutorials with staff, critical reflection and feedback and scenario-based decision making. These are critical to the journey of development of leadership skills. Discussions of research and the reflection on practical experience is essential when enhancing intellectual abilities to bridge the theory to practice divide. Practical skills will be developed through practical delivery in a variety of scenarios and environments that challenge students to apply the skills and develop their judgement and decision making. Regular feedback on assignments and practical assessments, in tutorial and through module feedback allows students to develop not only their understanding, but also their ability to bridge theory to practice regarding practical skills.
The individual needs of students have been considered throughout. For example, the nature of adventure sports students that have previously enrolled on the course and our Level 3 Outdoor Activity Instructor apprentices have needed high levels of additional support. The development and design of the programme and the overall content, such as an increase of assessed practical skills, ensures that all students regardless of their need will be able to achieve with the appropriate support systems from the College and various academic supports. The team will strive to deliver a challenging, yet flexible, learning experience with the addition of personalised support.
Our dedicated teaching teams will support with your application of theoretical and practical knowledge and will be invaluable to your development as an effective practitioner. Their passion and enthusiasm is exceptional, with dedicated support and tutorial time available so that you can make the most of your studies. This support has been crucial to the success of many past students who may not come from a traditional education pathway, and helps ensure your success.
You will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. The team includes academic staff, professional practitioners with industry experience, and where relevant, technicians. Postgraduate students undertaking teacher training may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader. Our teaching is informed by research, professional practice and industry experience to provide you with the most up to date and relevant learning opportunities.
When not attending lectures, seminars or practicals you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations where applicable. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities, including the library, the UCSD Research Centre, and our course specific environments.
Your overall workload at Level 4 consists of class contact hours, of approximately 15 hours’ per week, plus independent learning, and assessment activity. Together, this equates to approximately 36 hours per week. While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.
Level 4: 43% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity. 57% is spent on independent learning and assessment related activity.
Level 5: 43% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity. 57% is spent on independent learning and assessment related activity.
A key feature of our university level programmes is the exceptional support we provide for students. We are passionate about providing dedicated and bespoke support services to help you make the most of your time here and to maximise your potential. We have an experienced team who offer a range of services, and regular 1:1 contact time with your personal tutor guarantees your professional and personal development. We can provide help with study skills, written English, academic writing, research skills, critical thinking, and revision.
We hold the principles of equality and opportunity for all in the highest regard. That’s why our degrees are designed to be accessible for anyone, regardless of your personal circumstances. We endeavour to make reasonable adjustments and remove any barriers to your learning. We also offer more flexible timetables than other institutions to minimise the impact studying has on your personal life and responsibilities.
