Programme and module specification
Derek Clarke

This section offers guidance and exemplars for module and programme specification. Useful texts on devising learning outcomes are also included.

Key texts

• Biggs, J and Tang, C 2007. Teaching for quality learning at university. 3rd ed. Maidenhead: Open University Press.
  • Using constructive alignment in outcomes-based teaching and learning, chapter 4, pp.50-63.
  • Designing intended learning outcomes, chapter 5, pp.64-90.
• Jackson, N, Wisdom, J and Shaw, M 2003. Guide for busy academics: Using learning outcomes to design a course and assess learning (.pdf 887k). Learning and Teaching Coordinators Network and Teaching Support Network (LTSN).
• Nottingham Trent University, 2004 and 2007, Strategic Plan 2004 – 2010 October 2007 ed.
• Programme and Module Design video

Toolkits

• Guidance documents
  • Course specification template (blank)
  • Course specification template (with guidance notes)
  • Module specification: NTU form, with commentary (.pdf, 123k)
  • Contextual document: Guidance on this requirement for new programme proposals (.pdf, 19k)
  These should be used in conjunction with the regulations in the Academic Standards and Quality Handbook.
• Worked examples for a fictional programme
  • Contextual document BSc (Hons) Tram Engineering (.pdf 73k)
    This exemplar is for a programme making a Major Change to one or two aspects of an existing programme.
  •  Programme specification BSc (Hons) Tram Engineering
• NTU regulations and guidance
  From the Academic Standards and Quality Handbook:
  • Programme design
  • Programme approval

HEA resources on learning outcomes (search result)

You might also be interested in… Programme monitoring and annual reporting, Common assessment regulations, in the Academic Standards and Quality Handbook and  Constructive alignment for outcomes-based programme design.