Reflections on the SSP approach in transforming pre-induction experiences through the development of an online MOOC

Authors

  • Amanda Yip University of Hertfordshire
  • Joanna Szpunar
  • Paulina Milewska
  • Michal Kochanowicz
  • Priya Mahey
  • Andrew Burgess

Keywords:

pre-induction, student transition, student experience, staff-student partnership, collaboration, content creation, inclusivity, diversity

Abstract

Transition into higher education (HE) experience plays a vital role in setting and supporting prospective new students up for success. This experience has been evidenced to strengthen overall students’ sense of belonging and increase engagement with their learning. Ultimately, a successful and positive transition experience significantly impacts overall student retention and lower attrition rates. To enable this experience, we have developed an online pre-induction transition Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) called Getting Ready to Study at Herts, (GRSH) for all new students at University of Hertfordshire (UH). Here, we share a case study outlining how our student body influences and leads on the strategic priorities within the GRSH and their involvement in designing and authoring content whilst working in partnership with staff to enhance the overall student pre-induction experience before they arrive.

Author Biographies

Amanda Yip, University of Hertfordshire

Amanda Yip is an Associate Professor in Learning and Teaching and a Learning and Teaching Specialist within the University of Hertfordshire’s Centre for Learning, Access and Student Success. Amanda works with staff across the University to enable their continuing professional development. Amanda’s expertise is within curriculum design and, as the module leader for one of the Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (PGCLTHE) modules, ‘Designing and Enhancing the Curriculum’, she draws on her recent experience as the programme leader for BSc Computer Science as well as her in-depth understanding of student learning. With a specific interest around student transitions and enhancing student experiences, Amanda promotes and advocates for the design of contemporary curriculum that is inclusive and nurturing to support students in building confidence during their academic journey with the ultimate aim of successful outcomes for all.

Joanna Szpunar

Joanna Szpunar is a Digital Skills Facilitator at the University of Hertfordshire’s Centre for Learning Access and Student Success. Specialising in educational technology and data analytics, her mission is to champion digitalisation within the higher education sector by nurturing the development of digital capabilities among academic staff.

Paulina Milewska

Paulina A. Milewska is currently a second year BSc Computer Science student at University of Hertfordshire, specialising in Software Development. She is also a Student Technology Mentor and has continually contribute to the development and promotion of digital skills development for both staff and students. Paulina has also recently been awarded her Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Michal Kochanowicz

Michal Kochanowicz is a final year student on the BSc Computer Science (Software Engineering) undergraduate programme at the University of Hertfordshire. Additionally, Michal is recognised as an Associate Fellow of Higher Education Academy. Michal also serves as a Student Technology Mentor at the University, where he assists in the development and delivery of of digital capabilities to both staff and students.

Priya Mahey

Priya Mahey is a Digital Capabilities Developer working at the Learning and Teaching
Innovation Centre at the University of Hertfordshire. She has a background in law and
educational technology, working with academic staff and students to develop their digital
skills for the last 5 years

Andrew Burgess

Andrew Burgess is a Learning Technologist in the University of Hertfordshire’s Centre for Learning Access and Student Success. Andrew has over 10 years experience developing educational media products within Higher Education and his specialism is collaborative video production. Andrew is also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

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Published

05/10/2024

How to Cite

Yip, A., Szpunar, J., Milewska, P., Kochanowicz, M., Mahey, P., & Burgess , A. (2024). Reflections on the SSP approach in transforming pre-induction experiences through the development of an online MOOC. The Journal of Educational Innovation, Partnership and Change, 10(1). Retrieved from https://journals.studentengagement.org.uk/index.php/studentchangeagents/article/view/1292

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 1 (2024): Reimagining partnerships to generate new learning opportunities: Conference Special

Section

Case Study

License

Copyright (c) 2024 The Journal of Educational Innovation, Partnership and Change

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