Learning enhancement

Like all fellow higher education institutions in Scotland, The Open University in Scotland engages in Enhancement Themes activity: three-year national programmes covering an aspect of teaching and learning, with the aim of improving the learning experience of higher education students in Scotland. 

Enhancement Themes are overseen by QAA Scotland (the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education).

The Themes encourage institutions, staff and students to work together to develop new ideas and models for innovation in learning and teaching. Each Theme also allows the sector to share and learn from current and innovative national and international practice.

Current Enhancement Theme:

Resilient Learning Communities (2020-2023). This Theme focusses on meeting the changing needs and values of an increasingly diverse student community and a rapidly changing external environment.

The OU in Scotland published its Institutional Plan, and End of Year Three, End of Year Two and End of Year One reports (.pdfs) for this Theme. 

Previous Enhancement Themes and reports:

• Evidence for Enhancement: Improving the Student Experience (2017-2020). The OU's work  in relation to the Theme included producing: a free short online OU course Developing a Sense of Belonging in Online Distance Learning; and a report (available on request) of recommendations for improving knowledge and awareness of how the OU in Scotland uses data to enhance students' learning experiences.
• Student Transitions (2014-17) 
• Developing and Supporting the Curriculum (2011-14).