An academic development model for fostering innovation and sharing in curriculum design

Abstract

This paper outlines an academic development process based around a two- or three-day workshop programme called a Course Design Intensive (CDI). The CDI process aims to foster collaboration and peer support in curriculum development and bring about pedagogic innovation and positive experiences for both tutors and learners. Bringing participants together in multi-disciplinary teams enables critical review and cross-fertilisation of ideas within and across teams. The paper draws on an in-depth evaluation undertaken over a five-year period. Data were analysed from reports, workshop feedback and in-depth interviews with nine CDI participants from six programme teams. The CDI approach appears to legitimise and support time out for staff to work collaboratively and reflectively on new modes of delivery, such as e-learning for blended and distance courses. Its success, however, is contingent on a variety of factors, especially the agency of key staff members. We critique the workshop model and discuss the benefits, limitations and critical success factors.

Keywords:

• curriculum design
• course design
• e-learning
• staff development
• workshop models