Academic Standing Committee - Reports

The Academic Standing Committee (ASC) met with Colm Harmon, Vice-Principal Students on 5 June to update on the Curriculum Transformation Programme (CTP).

His presentation covered significant initiatives undertaken by the University regarding curriculum restructuring, assessment practices, and the enhancement of the student experience. Important points from his update included the emphasis on improving key aspects of a student’s journey including relational, transitional, and transactional elements, the development of cross-institutional “challenge courses” that promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and the redesign of postgraduate offerings to create a more unified and specialised framework.

Significant reforms to assessment practices were highlighted, aiming to address issues like over-assessment and to improve the timeliness of feedback.  Furthermore, the University employs artificial intelligence and other digital tools to improve student interaction with platforms and timetabling management, along with the decentralisation of student support through the introduction of professional student advisers and Well-Being advisers.

Discussion during the meeting centred around how recent curriculum and administrative changes affect student and staff experiences, particularly in light of current financial challenges which the University is facing. Concerns were raised about potential increases in class sizes and how it might impact the quality of individual student engagement and learning experience. Professor Harmon reassured that although there may be slight increments, the quality of experience would be managed carefully and thoughtfully.

Internally, the curriculum transformation is being ingrained into the new teaching and learning strategy, striving for a structured framework for schools to efficiently adopt changes. This is intended to streamline operations and enhance student experiences. Professor Harmon also noted ongoing efforts to standardise assessment processes across various schools, aiming to reduce inconsistent student workloads and stress linked to simultaneous deadlines.

Additionally, the meeting covered questions about the implementation and administrative tracking of challenge courses and the distinct roles between Student Advisers and Well-Being Advisers. The importance of clear and responsive communication strategies to appropriately inform students of these transformative efforts was emphasised.

In concluding, Professor Reid thanked Professor Harmon for his comprehensive update and expressed enthusiasm for the continued collaborative effort to enhance the University’s educational offerings.

Professor Graeme Reid

Convener

Academic Standing Committee

The University of Edinburgh