Explore: Module Leadership

A joined-up PGT programme requires cohesion between, and layering of, modules to avoid content duplication and to ensure all programme LOs are met. Underpinning this, is effective planning, running, and management of each module – encompassing learning, teaching, assessment, and feedback strategies, from the perspective of both student and staff experiences. A module lead is in a suitable position to coordinate and be responsible for these, as well as for quality assurance and enhancement.

To support FoM PGT colleagues in establishing and developing their module lead roles, we designed a short course for current module leads on FoM PGT programmes, or those (with substantial teaching experience) who aspire to module leadership. 

FoM PGT Module Leadership short course

The course comprised a series of 4 workshops centred around collaborative and holistic module design and delivery, within the context of coordinating and providing a positive learning and teaching experience for students and staff. Workshops provided a space for participants to discuss and develop their module alongside colleagues, and linked to suggestions for a bespoke module handbook to use in recruiting and supporting session leads.

Particpants on the course have said:

"I found the material, the engagement and the discussion really thought provoking and insightful and I’ve already marked a number of things I’ve learned from the course to incorporate in my next teaching cycle"

"I've absolutely loved it and felt it was really engaging. I've personally learnt a lot and have so much information and ideas etc to take back to my own course and my own leadership role." 

"It is also always valuable to look down the other end of the telescope too – it was interesting to experience remote teaching as a student." 

"I think this should be mandatory for anyone leading a module!"

Details of the course content is summarised below.

Workshop 1: Module Leadership and Professional Identity

In this workshop, you will explore and reflect on what it means to lead a module. For example:

  • what do you do and/or what should you be doing?
  • what are your expectations from other contributors to the module?
  • how will you communicate the above, and to whom?

You will also establish the roles and responsibilities needed for your module to be successful.

Workshop 2: Module Design I – Values and Strategy

Thinking about your module design, this workshop will consider the objectives and context of your module as you explore and reflect on:

  • professional values and attributes your students will (or should) develop;
  • the impact your module will/could have on this;
  • the appropriateness and alignment of your module ILOs, content, and assessments, to achieve the above.

Workshop 3: Module Design II – Structure and Delivery

You will build on your holistic approach to defining the values and ethos of your module by considering the student experience on your module. In doing this you will contextualise and justify elements relating to the structure and delivery of your module. For example:

  • how you bring your choice of teaching and learning activities together;
  • resources and platforms to be used;
  • timeliness, resilience, and sustainability of the module.

Workshop 4: Module Evaluation, QA, Modification, and Support

Tying your module design together, this final workshop will consider how you can ensure your module is both dynamic and sustainable. For example:

  • how should your module be evaluated, and by whom?
  • how can evaluation data be used to enhance and innovate?
  • what procedures and regulations need to be adhered to when making changes to your module?

In addition, you will consider how you will ensure ongoing support and development of your module stakeholders, exploring:

  • how you can support both your students and staff;
  • how you can develop your own professional identity as an academic leader.

All workshops will be linked to suggested sections for inclusion in your module handbook. Some pre-workshop activities will also be required.

If you have any questions about the course please e-mail Elaina Maginn (e.maginn@imperial.ac.uk).