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What format should a programme specification take?

Programme specifications should take the form of a dialogue between staff involved in the delivery of the programme and their students. The decision on which format is most suitable for this purpose is then best decided by these groups.  The language used should be that naturally used in a conversation about the programme between staff and students.  It is, however, important that the programme specification does indeed explicitly specify the programme and its components and does not just discuss in general terms.  Claims about learning outcomes must be supported by evidence of how they are developed and, where appropriate, assessed.  The information in the programme specification should then help graduates to talk about what they have learned and how.

It should be recognised that programme specifications form one part of a set of different types of documents about a programme and its components, which involves prospectus, programme handbook, unit specifications and information on websites.  Information for students is presented through different media; printed documents, websites and virtual learning environments.  The relationship between the documents must be considered carefully and consistency must be ensured.  It is suggested that if programme specifications are written according to these guidelines, they would form a natural part of a handbook, rather than be viewed as a separate document.

Even if the programme specification is made available to students through a printed document, it is recommended that it is also made available in electronic format.  Whenever the information is communicated in different ways, it is essential that the documents are consistent and date marked to ensure version control.