The Academic Enhancement Framework (AEF) was developed to provide a mechanism through which key strategic initiatives are embedded within curriculum design and delivery. The AEF identifies clear themes for enhancement across the University; it encompasses the core Future Facing Learning themes (particularly relevant in the context of student learning, forming the University’s distinctive pedagogic approach) and other areas deemed integral to the wider student experience including the Student Voice and aspects of the Student Journey one of which is Student Success.
The AEF forms a core focus for professional development and support activities particularly around curriculum design and development. The AEF was reviewed in 2022 to explore ways it could be enhanced and to ensure it remained current. The Review included wide consultation across the University with key stakeholders, including students, and a review relevant sector evidence and literature; collectively these core activities have informed and shaped the current Matrices and a suite of newly developed staff-facing resources and guidance materials.
You can access all-new AEF resources and guidance here.
There are now three different resource types/ways of engaging with each of the AEF themes:
- Thematic Matrices capturing key considerations and expectations associated with each AEF theme
- An accompanying Executive Summary resource to aid focused thematic reflection and design
- An extended Staff Guide designed to encourage deeper thought around course development.
The new-look AEF Unity page also provides additional guidance for staff for framing and facilitating course-level review and development work – the aim being to provide a consistent approach in engaging with core considerations, whilst also providing further structured guidance for more localised (subject/course level engagement).
Colleagues are supported to utilise this expanded guidance to reflect on and work towards enhancing their practice, course design and professional development aligned to the AEF themes.