Programme Specification

Transcription

1 FINAL Version Coventry University Faculty of Business, Environment and Society Department of Strategy and Applied Management Programme Specification Course code: BEST121 MA Leadership & Management Postgraduate Diploma Leadership & Management Postgraduate Certificate Leadership & Management FINAL 2014/15 Page 1

2 FINAL Version Contents Introduction Part 1: Programme Specification 1-10 Basic Programme information 11 Educational Aims of the Programme 12 Intended Learning Outcomes 13 Programme Structure and Requirements 14 Support for Students and their Learning 15 Criteria for Admission 16 Methods for Evaluation and Enhancing the Quality and Standards of Teaching and learning 17 Regulation of Assessment 18 Indicators of Quality and Standards 19 Additional Information 20 List of mandatory and core option modules 21 Curriculum Map 22 Capabilities (Skills) Map Part 2: Supporting information Relationship to the National Qualifications Framework, Subject Benchmarks and Professional/Statutory Body requirements. Teaching and Learning Strategy Assessment Strategy Programme/Course Management Entry Requirements and Selection Procedures Compliance with the University s Academic Regulations and Current Legislation Page 2

3 FINAL Version Introduction This new part-time course has been designed for those who wish to pursue their career and research interests in leadership and management. The course is designed with the professional student in mind and many of the assessments focus on strategic workplace issues. Students may also chose to graduate after year one (PgCert) or year two (PgDip) however the MA forms the apex of our suite of leadership and management programmes. At this level, middle to senior managers are expected to develop the ability to reflect on their management practice. This enables them to learn to learn effectively and apply this skill repeatedly when confronting and researching complex, strategic management and leadership issues. The course is distinctive and unique from other postgraduate, part time, management programmes delivered by the University in a number of ways. Firstly, the strategic focus of the course, students will develop a critical understanding of a variety of complex organisational paradigms. The focus is not only the management and leadership of people but also includes resource planning, decision making, the external environment, business ethics and corporate strategy. Secondly, the unique style of blended delivery which leads to a minimal amount of time away from the workplace including some weekend study periods and extensive support through Moodle, individual supervision and unique study groups. Finally, a number of assignments allow the student to apply their new knowledge to an organisation or industry of their choice. This encourages autonomous, independent learning which is relevant and beneficial to their place of work. The proposed course aligns with the University s mission to aspire to be a dynamic, global, enterprising university... working in partnership with external organisations through our research and engage our students as partners in a community of learning (Coventry University 2013). It also aligns with our key aims, specifically to assist students in achieving their further study, career or self-employment aspirations. To this end, our curriculum will be employment-related, making use of research activities and real or live projects (Coventry University 2013). Two-thirds of UK business leaders state that a lack of employees with key skills is hampering their firm s growth prospects. Evidence shows that in general both in the public and private sector the UK falls behind key competitor nations such as the US and Germany in terms of leadership and management capability. This is having a negative impact on the UK s competitiveness and performance (BIS 2012). 95% of Human Resource professionals reported skills gaps in their organisations and more specifically 69% felt that they were missing leadership capability (Cedar 2013). Market research indicates that there is some limited provision for part-time, postgraduate leadership and management courses amongst our competitors but not located in the Midlands. The following recommendations stem from the competitor analysis: Due to the non-existence of providers of similar courses in the region, there is a definite potential to offer Leadership and Management MA/PgDip/PgCert at Coventry University to attract those in employment, working locally. Such a course could also attract students from further afield if the contact days and times were made convenient to those living and working elsewhere in the UK Course fees should be competitive with those offered by other providers, taking into account that students may opt to travel further to a part-time course if it is more cost effective The University could look to recruit students through businesses we already have strong links with and look to advertise through these connections also Projected student numbers at Coventry University in the first year are (2014/2015). The course aims to attract applicants from a variety of public, private and third sector organisations. In order to increase the potential target market, the course will also be open to those not currently in work. Due to the nature of delivery (block residentials and online learning) there will be no geographic restrictions for applicants as regular weekly attendance is not required. The entry requirements differ across the three levels of the course but applicants may range from those aspiring to be Managers, currently at supervisory level, to those already in Middle or Senior Management positions. Page 3

4 Part 1: Programme Specification for MA Leadership and Management FINAL Version 1 Available Award(s) and Modes of Study Title of Award * Mode of attendance* UCAS Code FHEQ Level* Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership and Management Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Management Part-time, one year duration Part-time, two years duration N/A QAA s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications Level 7 Master of Arts in Leadership and Management Part-time, three years duration 2 Awarding Institution/Body * Coventry University 3 Collaboration N/A 4 Teaching Institution and Location of delivery* 5 Internal Approval/Review Dates 6 Programme Accredited by* 7 Accreditation Date and Duration 8 QAA Subject Benchmark Statement(s) and/or other external factors * Coventry University Blended delivery style via VLE. Residentials to be held at off-site facility. Date of approval: March 2014 Date for next review: 2019/2020 Chartered Management Institute (tbc) Institute of Leadership and Management (Endorsement - tbc) tbc The programme of study meets the subject benchmark statements for Masters awards in Business and Management. More information can be found at the following link: ManagementMasters.pdf 9 Date of Programme Specification * 10 Programme Manager/Course Tutor * March 2013 Leanne de Main Page 4

5 11 Educational Aims of the Programme * FINAL Version Students will emerge from the MA in Leadership and Management with well-developed powers of self-reflection, clear perspectives on strategy and strategic thinking, and highly effective leadership, management and research skills. All of these skills are demanded by employers in private, public, and third sector organisations around the world. Graduates from the course should be well informed to face the challenges of senior managers working in organisations in the twenty-first century. For those currently employed but wishing for career progression, this course will allow the application of advanced skills and knowledge in the relevant industry. For those looking for a different pathway or who may currently be unemployed, graduates should be able to pursue a wide range of leadership and management careers in global corporations, government organisations, management consultancies and leadership/management education and training. This course offers: Flexibility to allow students to tailor research to suit organisational and/or industry requirements All the assignments and projects address real life issues and involve action plans for helping the individual and the organisation/industry to achieve their goals Minimum time away from the workplace Student support from tutors and peers as well as access to all Coventry University support services Extensive use of virtual learning environments through a blended learning approach 100% coursework based assessments Support for leadership and management theory and research methods will be provided as required through course residential workshops and study days, extensive web-based resources and personal project supervisors General Overall Aims Graduates of the programme will be able to demonstrate deep knowledge and understanding of the leadership and management area while placing it within a wider organisational and contextual framework. They will understand current issues and thinking along with techniques applicable to primary research in the subject area. Graduates will have both theoretical and applied perspectives and will be able to apply a range of specialist skills to their organisations or specified industry (QAA 2007). Specific Aims of the Named Awards Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership and Management Provide students with knowledge and a critical awareness and understanding of seminal and contemporary theories of leadership and management Encourage the development of professional leadership and management skills through self-reflection, personal development planning, analytical thinking and awareness of personal effectiveness Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Management Encourage students to focus at a strategic level, understanding the key organisational issues and the impact that leaders and managers at this level experience Develop independent, autonomous learners who can apply new academic knowledge to real life organisations and industries, with a specific focus on key areas such as communication, culture and change Masters in Leadership and Management Support students who will be conducting a leading edge substantial research project in an industry or organisation of their choice. Guide students to develop an critical understanding of research methodology, primary data collection and familiarity with a range of credible research sources and as such to inform the overall learning process Page 5

6 12 Intended Learning Outcomes* FINAL Version On completion of the Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership and Management students should be able to: Demonstrate a critical awareness and systematic understanding of seminal and contemporary theories of leadership and management Communicate a critical awareness of the complex nature of leadership and management theories within a wider organisational and contextual framework Formulate and appraise personal leadership and management skills through self-reflection, personal development planning, analytical thinking and awareness of personal effectiveness Communicate effective academic scholarship skills by judging and systematically presenting arguments from credible sources of information, both orally and in writing, using a range of media On completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Management students should be able to: Identify and critically analyse the key leadership and management issues that impact on organisations at a strategic level and appreciate the conflicting pressures from the external environment Critically assess and creatively apply contemporary theories of leadership and management to real life organisations and industries with a specific focus on key areas which affect relationships between business functions and teams Evaluate the credibility and rigour of published research and asses its relevance to modern organisations and industries of today On completion of the Masters in Leadership and Management students should be able to: Critically evaluate research methodologies and propose a research pathway which demonstrates reliability, validity and coherence through autonomous planning Select a relevant leadership and management issue and demonstrate a critical awareness of seminal and contemporary theories through originality in the application of knowledge Acquire and analyse primary and secondary data demonstrating an understanding of ethical approaches to gathering data for research purposes Synthesise academic theory with independently gathered research data and construct an argument to form recommendations and conclusions for the industry or organisation of choice This programme satisfies the QAA benchmark statements for Masters Awards in Business and Management and Coventry University s Code of Practice for Academic and Professional Skills Development. Section 21 maps the intended learning outcomes as described in the next section to the programmes mandatory and option modules (as listed in section 20). Section 22 shows the capabilities that students will be taught, given the opportunity to practise and will be assessed in. The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used on the programme to achieve these learning outcomes are identified in the next section. Page 6

7 12.1 Knowledge and Understanding* On successful completion of the full programme a student should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of KU1 Seminal and contemporary theories of leadership and management FINAL Version KU2 The complex nature of leadership and management theories within a wider organisational and contextual framework KU3 Leadership and management issues that impact on organisations at a strategic level KU4 The ability to integrate and apply academic theory to real organisations and industries KU5 The critical evaluation of credible sources of information in relation to leadership and management KU6 Research methods and methodology to include philosophy, approach, data collection techniques, reliability, validity and coherence of data KU7 The ethics of business primary and secondary research The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are identified below. KU1 KU2 KU3 KU4 KU5 KU6 KU7 Teaching and Learning Tutorials, study groups, textbooks, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online/class discussion and activities and case studies. Tutorials, study groups, textbooks, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online/class discussion and activities and case studies. Tutorials, study groups, textbooks, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online/class discussion and activities and case studies. Tutorials, study groups, textbooks, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online/class discussion and activities and case studies. Tutorials, study groups, textbooks, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online/class discussion and activities. Turtorials, study groups, online activities, journals (hard copies and electronic), textbooks, supervisory meetings, self-directed study. Tutorials, self-directed study, online activities, case studies. Assessment Individual coursework assignments. Individual coursework assignments. Individual written coursework assignments. Individual and applied coursework assignment, research dissertation. Individual written coursework assignments. Research proposal and dissertation. Individual written assignment, research proposal and dissertation Cognitive (thinking) Skills* On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to CS1 Synthesise and critically evaluate new academic knowledge, information and data CS2 Critically reflect and evaluate personal leadership and management skills CS3 Source and critically appraise credible sources of information CS4 Synthesise academic theory with independently gathered research data and construct an argument CS5 Identify and analyse key issues within organisations and industries in order to conclude and recommend future Page 7

8 actions FINAL Version The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are identified below. CS1 CS2 Teaching and Learning Tutorials, formative feedback, study groups, textbooks, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online/class discussion, individual supervision. Tutorials, self-assessment tools, textbooks, journals, self-directed study, online resources and discussion, critical incident analysis. Assessment Individual coursework assignments Individual reflective portfolio, personal development plan and skills audit. CS3 CS4 CS5 A blended approach to include library skills workshops, study groups, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online quizzes and discussion and tutorials. Tutorials, formative feedback, study groups, textbooks, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online/class discussion, individual supervision and primary research guidance. Tutorials, formative feedback, study groups, textbooks, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online/class discussion, individual supervision and primary research guidance. Individual coursework assignments. Individual coursework assignments, research proposal and dissertation. Individual coursework assignments, research proposal and dissertation Practical Skills* On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to PS1 Continuously assess and reflect upon their own personal development needs through Personal Development Planning (PDP), skills auditing, reflective thinking and gathering peer feedback PS2 Use ICT effectively to gather, retrieve and communicate relevant information in an appropriate format PS3 Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, using a range of primary and secondary sources knowing how to accurately credit and reference the work of others. PS4 Apply academic theories, models and views in an organisational or industry context The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are identified below. PS1 Teaching and Learning Tutorials, self-assessment tools, textbooks, journals, self-directed study, online resources and discussion, critical incident analysis. Assessment Individual reflective portfolio, personal development plan and skills audit. PS2 PS3 Tutorials, workshops and extensive use of online resources. A blended approach to include residentials, workshops, study groups, textbooks, module webs, journals (hard copies and electronic), Individual written assignments, portfolio and research dissertation. Individual written assignments, presentation with portfolio assignment, research proposal and dissertation. Page 8

9 PS4 self-directed study, online discussion, individual supervision and tutorials. Tutorials, study groups, textbooks, case study analysis, journals (hard copies and electronic), self-directed study, online discussion, individual supervision.. FINAL Version Individual applied coursework, research proposal and dissertation Transferable Skills * On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to TS1 Assess their own progress including self-reflection, self-evaluation, time management, teamwork and motivation TS2 Demonstrate an independent, autonomous approach to planning, preparing and presenting work TS3 Use ICT effectively to gather, retrieve and communicate relevant information Transferable/key skills are generally incorporated within modules (see annex 3) and related to relevant assessments as appropriate. Self-directed learning forms an element of all modules and the necessity to work within tight deadlines is an essential requirement across the curriculum. The ability to communicate orally and in writing will be developed across the range of modules. The wide range of assessment techniques will ensure that students are given every opportunity to demonstrate their skills in these areas. Page 9

10 13 Programme Structure and Requirements, Levels, Modules, Credits and Awards FINAL Version Modules within the programme, their status (whether mandatory or options), the levels at which they are studied, their credit value and pre/co requisites are identified in section Patterns and Mode of Attendance The programme has been devised to be delivered over a three year period; each level will be delivered over one academic year on a part time basis (covering two semesters). There is no provision for full time study. It is constructed on the basis of the University s taught postgraduate modular framework (180 credits). All modules within the course are mandatory. Students must undertake and pass all modules to be awarded a masters degree. During each semester the students will attend two mandatory residentials, the first over three days, the second over two days. In addition students will be expected to participate in study groups, online activities, discussions for a and meeting with a Supervisor during the final year Course Structure Course Level Module Code Module Title Semester Credit Value PgCert M15BSS Leadership and Management Theory 1 30 M PgCert M16BSS Personal Leadership and Management Skills 2 30 M PgDip M17BSS Strategic Leadership & Management 1 30 M PgDip M18BSS Leadership & Management of Communication, Culture and Change 2 30 M MA M19BSS Leadership & Management Research Project M Total 180 Mandatory A student who obtains 180 credits at M level will be awarded a Master s degree. A student who obtains 60 credits at M level will be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership & Management. A student who obtains 120 credits at M level will be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership & Management. (See section 9.6 Academic regulations for full details). Awards for a Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate certificate may be made with Distinction or with Merit under the following circumstances (subject to section 7.11 of the Academic Regulations): a) a student who achieves an average of at least 70% in the 90 credits worth of M-level modules with the highest marks shall be eligible for a Postgraduate Diploma with Distinction; b) a student who achieves an average of at least 70% in the 50 credits worth of M-level modules with the highest marks shall be eligible for a Postgraduate Certificate with Distinction; e) a student who achieves an average of at least 60% but less than 70% under the above calculation shall be eligible for an award with Merit; Awards for Taught Masters programmes may be made with Distinction or with Merit under the following circumstances (subject to Academic Regulations 7.11 and ): a) a student who achieves an average of at least 70% in the 150 credits worth of level M modules with the highest marks taken in a Master s programme, shall be eligible for the award of a Master s degree with Distinction; b) a student who achieves an average of at least 60% but less than 70% under the above calculations shall be eligible for an award with Merit; Page 10

11 14 Support for Students and their Learning FINAL Version Students will be supported by the following mechanisms: The course induction will include details of course administration and management, course ethos, learning styles, how to use Moodle, reflective learning, assignment preparation, rules and regulations and social time to aid cohort bonding. The Coventry Academic Skills Programme (CASP) see: Students experiencing difficulties in mathematics or statistics will be referred to the Sigma Mathematics Support Centre which offers extra help to students. Students experiencing or diagnosed as having English language or academic writing difficulties will be referred to the Centre for Academic Writing. Provision of a student handbook detailing the structure of the programme and relevant regulations and additional information can be found within module guides Online support via the course, subject and module Moodle site Peer support at tutorials, residentials, online and in study groups Allocation of a Project Supervisor during final year The MA Course Director and Associate Course Director Reasonable adjustments can be made to the teaching, learning, assessment and support of the course to maximise accessibility to students with disabilities. There are two faculty disability tutors who can support and advise individual students (and staff) Students will be expected to have access to the internet, a printer, a PC and a browser capable of utilising the library, course, subject and module web materials. At the University level student support is focused in a Student Centre which has been designed as a one stop shop to deal with the vast majority of non-academic issues that might arise. The main services located in the centre, or providing consultation sessions there, are listed below. Full information with contact details on these services can be found on the University s web site at: Academic Registry Careers and Employability Counselling Finance International Office Medical Centre Mental Health Nursery Recruitment and Admissions Residences and Accommodation Spirituality and Faith Sport and Recreation Student Funding Students' Union Advice Centre Welfare and Disability Page 11

12 FINAL Version 15 Criteria for Admission The entry criteria for the programme corresponds to the QAA Benchmark Statements (2007) which can be found at: Accreditation for prior learning is in accordance with University regulations as set out in paragraph of the regulations for taught postgraduate courses. For the Postgraduate Certificate: A Degree/Honours degree or equivalent (with two years appropriate experience); or An appropriate professional qualification (with two years appropriate experience); or Management experience that can demonstrate learning to an equivalent level. For the Postgraduate Diploma: A Postgraduate Certificate in a management related subject; or An Honours degree in a management subject (with three years appropriate experience); or An appropriate professional qualification (with three years appropriate experience); or Management experience that can demonstrate learning to an equivalent level. For the MA: A Postgraduate diploma in management; or A Postgraduate diploma-level qualification in business or management; or A Professional qualification with appropriate experience; or Management experience that can demonstrate learning to an equivalent level. International applicants should also hold a minimum of 6.5 score in the IELTS test for English language. 16 Method for Evaluating and Enhancing the Quality and Standards of Teaching and Learning The Programme is developed and managed by the Department of Strategy and Applied Management (SAM) of the Faculty of Business, the Environment and Society (BES). The Programme Assessment Board (PAB) for MA Leadership and Management is responsible for considering the progress of all students and making awards in accordance with both the University and course-specific regulations. The assurance of the quality of modules is the responsibility of the Boards of Study which contribute modules to the programme. External Examiners report annually on the programme and their views are considered as part of the annual Course Evaluation and Quality Monitoring process (CEQM). Details of the CEQM process can be found on the Registry s web site. Students are represented on the Student Forum, Board of Study and Faculty/School Board, all of which normally meet two or three times per year. Student views are also sought through module and course evaluation questionnaires. Page 12

13 17 Regulation of Assessment University policy requires the internal moderation of all assessments. FINAL Version External Examiners are appointed for all named University awards. The role of the External Examiner at module level is to ensure that academic standards are in line with national norms for the subject. External Examiners undertake the moderation of examination papers and assessment tasks, and view representative samples of work for the modules for which they have responsibility. At programme level, External Examiners help to ensure fairness in the consideration of student progression and awards. They have the right to comment on all aspects of the assessment system and participate as full members of the assessment boards. The Pass mark for all modules is 40%. This overall module mark may comprise more than one component (e.g. coursework and exam). The individual module descriptors give the precise pass criteria and the weighting of the component marks that contribute to the overall module mark. 18 Indicators of Quality and Standards The following are key indicators of quality and standards: The programme has been designed in accordance with the QAA benchmark statements: Master s degrees in business & management 2007 Coventry Business School is ranked by EDUNIVERSAL in the Excellent Business School (3 Palme s) worldwide category. EDUNIVERSAL provides a ranking and information system for students in order to help decide which Business School to study at ( Coventry Business School is a member of The Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) initiative PRME has 6 principles, including; Purpose, Values, Method, Research, Partnership and Dialogue. All 6 principles of PRME are practiced in the course The Department has a strong portfolio of industry-related research (e.g. through links with the university research centre and alumni) The Guardian University guide 2012 for the Business and management studies subject area rated Coventry as 48 th in their university league table and the business subject area ranked at 33 rd Accreditation is being sought for the course, in particular from EPAS, CMI and ILM The Department has excellent links with local employers fostered through established networks and alumni All academic staff delivering the programme have a Teaching and Learning in Higher Education qualification, most are Fellows of the Higher Education Academy The report of QAA s Institutional Audit undertaken in November 2008 confirmed that Confidence can be placed in the soundness of the institutions current and likely future management of the academic standards of its awards Confidence can be placed in the soundness of the institutions current and likely future management of the quality of the learning opportunities Page 13

14 FINAL Version 19 Additional Information Key sources of information about the course and student support can be found in Course Moodle page which will contain: Student handbook Postgraduate Student Handbook A link to BES Student Link where students may access all Registry documents Module Moodle pages will contain: Detailed teaching and learning information Coursework marks Assessment briefs Module Information Directory ( Student Portal BES Student Link : Health and Welfare: Module Information Directory ( Study Support information is accessible from student services home page. Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content, and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found in the Module Information Directory (MID), student module guide(s) and the course handbook. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed by the University and may be verified by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education. Page 14

15 FINAL Version 20 Mandatory and Option Modules Course Level Module Code Module Title Semester Credit Value PgCert M15BSS Leadership and Management Theory 1 30 M PgCert M16BSS Personal Leadership and Management Skills 2 30 M PgDip M17BSS Strategic Leadership & Management 1 30 M PgDip M18BSS Leadership & Management of Communication, Culture and Change 2 30 M MA M19BSS Leadership & Management Research Project M Key M = Mandatory (i.e. must be studied and passed for the named award) O = Option Total 180 Mandatory Page 15

16 21 Curriculum Map Intended Learning Outcomes Knowledge and Understanding Cognitive (Thinking) Skills Practical Skills Module codes KU1 KU2 KU3 KU4 KU5 KU6 KU7 CS1 CS2 CS3 CS4 CS5 PS1 PS2 PS3 PS4 M15BSS M16BSS M17BSS M18BSS M19BSS Intended Learning Outcomes Transferable Skills Module codes TS1 TS2 TS3 M15BSS M16BSS M17BSS M18BSS M19BSS 16

17 22 Capabilities (Skills) Map Module codes Learning to Learn Working with others Problem Solving and Innovation Numeracy IT and Online Learning Communication Career Management Information Management Personal Development Planning M15BSS T, P T, P T, P T, P T, P, A T, P M16BSS T, P T, P, A T, P T, P T, P, A T, P T, P, A T, P, A M17BSS T, P T, P T, P T, P T, P, A T, P M18BSS T, P T, P T, P, A T, P T, P, A T, P T, P, A M19BSS T, P T, P T, P, A T, P, A T, P T, P, A T, P T, P, A Key: T=Taught, P=Practiced, A=Assessed The Code of Practice for Academic and Professional Skills Development requires that each of the capabilities be demonstrated at least once during the programme. Capability Outlines (from the Code of Practice for Academic and Skills Development) Learning to Learn Students should be ready to accept responsibility for their own independent learning. They should also be able to reflect on their learning and appraise their capabilities and achievements. Students should also be able to identify their individual needs for effective learning. Working with Others Students should be able to work effectively as part of a group, and respect the dignity, rights and needs of others. Problem Solving and Innovation Students should be able to use problem-solving skills in a variety of practical situations. They should be able to demonstrate creativity, flexibility, perception, decisiveness, confidence and an awareness of values. Numeracy Students should be able to interpret, analyse and present numerical data. IT and Online Learning Students should be able to use computer-based systems for learning, communicating, collaborating with peers and tutors, and working with data. Communication Students should be able to communicate effectively in appropriate forms in a wide variety of situations. Career Management Students should appreciate the values, culture, structure and process of work organisations relevant to their area of study. Students should also appropriately match their experience and academic achievements to employer expectations. Information Management Students should be able to carry out research relevant to their field of study by retrieving and using information drawn from a variety of resources. Personal Development Planning Students should be able to demonstrate self-awareness, set personal goals and record achievement. 17

18 Part 2: Supporting Information for MA Leadership and Management 1 Relationship to the National Qualifications Framework, Subject Benchmarks and Professional/Statutory Body requirements For this programme, the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) guidelines (QAA, 2008: 19) have been adhered to which state that master s degrees are awarded to students who have demonstrated: a systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline conceptual understanding that enables the student: - to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline - to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses. The course is designed to afford students the opportunity to develop such knowledge, skills and abilities. The QAA published a guidance document in 2007 for Master's degrees in business and management (QAA 2007). The document identifies generic skills that students undertaking any Master s programme should be able to demonstrate such skills as: thinking critically and to be creative, solve complex problems and make decisions, conduct critical research into business and management issues and effective performance within team environments. These and the other QAA defined skills are all met with clearly defined learning outcomes for all modules. 2 Teaching and Learning Strategy The MA in Leadership and Management s teaching and learning strategy is informed by the University s Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy , PRME and developments in practice and research. The Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy (2011) has five strands: promoting digital literacy, academic experience, research-informed learning, internationalisation and employability. In terms of promoting digital literacy, students are taught to be discriminating and critical in their use of online resources and to use digital resources in their research to find credible sources of information. The teaching staff on the MA in Leadership and Management are research active and disseminate upto-date developments in their fields to students. Students are encouraged to read journal articles and to critically evaluate these to show understanding of areas of debate and gaps in understanding of international business concepts. Team work, discussions and group presentations encourage sharing of ideas and knowledge between students of diverse backgrounds and from different industries. Students have the opportunity to conduct their own research, under the guidance of a supervisor on the research dissertation. Most of the students on the course will be in full time employment in varying organisations and 18

19 sectors. They will have experience in industry and at varying levels of management, this experience is used in teaching activities to demonstrate how academic models and theories can be applied in the real world. Self and peer assessment will be promoted to help students develop their self-regulation skills and to enhance their ability for meta-cognition. These skills are further developed through personal skills audits, personal/professional development planning and reflective analysis, the aim of which is to increase the leadership and management skills of students for future career development. Students are taught using a variety of means including residential tutorials, skills workshops, discussion groups, study groups, moodle discussion fora, self-directed study, reading, case study analysis, online activities and one-to-one discussions with tutors (in particular during dissertation supervision meetings). This blended approach to teaching and learning has been designed with consideration to the students working life, therefore residentials and study days span over weekends to minimise time away from the workplace, the use of online resources adds further to the flexibility of the course delivery. 3 Assessment Strategy In accordance with the University s Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy (2011: 2) the MA course team is committed to using the most appropriate forms of assessment for the learning outcomes desired. Written assessments are used to assess specific subject knowledge, the student s ability to access relevant and credible sources and their ability to communicate effectively in writing. Oral presentations and group work simulate the skills that students can further develop for use in their future career. Both formative and summative assessment are used on the course to enable students to reflect on feedback and incorporate learning into their work, students will also be encouraged to provide peer feedback to fellow students and also attempt to self assess their own assessment performance. The course team have ensured that assessment is constructively aligned with course and module learning outcomes to ensure that the student journey is both logical and coherent. Due to the workbased focus of the course, students are actively encouraged to demonstrate the application of models and theories to an organisation and/or industry of their choice. This encourages autonomous, independent learning which is relevant and beneficial to their place of work. 4 Programme/Course Management The MA Course Director will be available to students for help and advice with regular office hours and online availability. Module leaders also have a pastoral role and students often approach them after tutorials and workshops for advice and guidance. Final year students will also be allocated a Research Supervisor with knowledge in the chosen subject area, Supervisors will agree a plan of contact over the duration of the research period. The main means of communication with students will be via the Course Moodle pages where regular notices are posted to update students on important events and key information. A Course Consultative Committee will be established for each year of study to allow feedback to the course team. Administrative support will be provided by the Strategy and Applied Management registry team. 5 Entry Requirements and Selection Procedures Entry requirements are outline in part one, section 15 of this programme specification. AP(E)L will be assessed by the Course Director through interview, application and written evidence as required and will follow the University s policy and guidelines on the AP(E)L process. Students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in the English language equivalent to IELTS

20 6 Compliance with the University s Academic Regulations and current legislation This programme specification complies with the University s Academic Regulations. Students with a disability are not likely to be prevented from achieving any of the intended learning outcomes. Template version January