Embedding Flexible Learning
Led by Professor Simon Thomson, Director of Flexible Learning, this workstream explored how we can effectively develop a sustainable, embedded approach to the support of blended and flexible learning, ensuring that the University of Manchester remains at the forefront of this approach to increase access to our learning opportunities.
What was our goal?
Our goal was to ensure that what we learned and the changes we made move into business as usual within the University, building upon our ‘flexible first’ approach to help our students fit their learning around their lives and embedding new approaches within our day-to-day operations.
As part of this, it was vital that the work and activities resulting from the Flexible Learning Programme benefit the University beyond the life of the programme.
What we’ve delivered
Booth Street East Teaching Innovation Space
Our new Teaching spaces not only highlights our commitment to sustainability, as our first zero emissions building, but also offers new learning experiences which are increasingly accessible, inclusive and innovative. The space includes VR Pods, podcasting suites and a hyflex teaching space, as well as a teaching space with no technology in it at all
After just less than a year of the new teaching spaces being in used, we have now evaluated the spaces to share key findings and lessons learned. You can read more here.
Commuter students’ space
Located on the main campus, the Commuter Student Space is a space created specifically for commuting students, it’s perfect for relaxing or catching up on work between lectures.
- Comfortable lounge seating for unwinding
- Study pods and quiet zones for focused work
- Kitchen facilities for meal prep and refreshments
- Lockers and drying room for convenience
- Multi-faith prayer spaces for reflection
- Shower facility to freshen up
Flexible Learning pilots
We funded 20 Flexible Learning pilots to develop grass-roots approaches to innovation in flexible learning and provide opportunities for staff and students to embed the principles of flexible learning directly into their learning and teaching activities
From embedding virtual reality into teaching to experimenting with new AI software, our Flexible Learning pilots offer valuable insights and lessons learned for our wider community to take away through the publication of the pilot reports and video series.
You can learn more about our pilots process here.
Legacy
Flexible learning and the principles associated with it are one of the ‘five big leaps’ within Manchester 2035. This ten year strategy builds upon the flexible learning programme to “a new kind of student experience – flexible, connected and personalised – blending digital innovation with in-person support and combining hands-on, partner-enabled learning with our local and global connections.” In addition to this Manchester Online originated from experiences, insights and activities within the flexible learning programme related to how we can deliver teaching more flexibly beyond the physical limitations of campus and helping learners access a Manchester education online whether that locally, nationally and globally.
You can learn more about Manchester Online here.