Learning from MODNet

Work Based Learning at Middlesex 1996 Middlesex was awarded a Queens Anniversary Prize for “Excellence and Innovation” for pioneering work based learning the UK Quality Assurance Agency commended Middlesex for innovation and rigor in the assessment of work based learning HEFCE awarded Middlesex a Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning in WBL Institute for Work Based Learning established 2009 HEFCE awarded Middlesex £8m to establish the Middlesex Organisational Development Network.

MODNet project objectives 13/05/2015Slide 3 The establishment of a provider network focused on organisational development The establishment of Business Development and Marketing resource to promote work based learning The development of appropriate quality, infrastructure and financial frameworks to support flexible work based provision Further development of the University’s work based curriculum Expansion of student numbers, especially through co-funded arrangements at UG level The use of accreditation of in-house training to develop sustainable business relationships with employers

The provider network 13/05/2015Slide 4 Strategic partners included Further Education Colleges and Private Training Providers Key role of accreditation in engaging private providers and their employer clients Concept of a joint approach across all NQF levels had surface attraction but not decisive

Further development of WBL Curriculum 13/05/2015Slide 5 Review of Work Based Learning Framework – focus on pan-University use Approval of new Titles: Professional Practice in …. A project driven approach to work based learning programmes Generic work based learning progression from Fd or equivalent professional qualifications The combination of WBL project modules with subject modules New work based learning provision examples: MBA Shipping and Logistics - Lloyds Maritime Fd Sports Development - Tottenham Hotspurs Foundation

Business Development and Marketing 13/05/2015Slide 6 Team established - between February and September 2009 Joint development events with business development teams in partner organisations – over 300 new contacts made Central employer enquiry line established High profile events - Informatology Conference, Stock Exchange with Consalia, London Chamber with Boris Johnson, Hendon employer event with Michael Portillo, Joint Conference with CBI Formal endorsement of Middlesex WBL approach by the London Chamber of Commerce

The development of systems and infrastructure 13/05/2015Slide 7 Staffing resources to support project development Institute for Work Based Learning staff Work based learning staff within University Schools and central services Student record system Developed registration systems that meet the requirements of new approaches to work based learning - eg employer cohorts Customer Relationship Management system Limited impact as did not achieve a whole university approach Support for work based learning students Further development of distance learning technologies Identification and dissemination of best practice with Schools and strategic partners

Working with Employers 13/05/2015Slide 8 Impact of the recession on employers and on the University Small awards eg University Cert, Dip, Advanced Dip, PGCert more attractive than full Hons or Masters degrees Co-funding not an attractive proposition Use of accreditation key to partnership working

Halifax Community Bank: Journey in Practice 13/05/2015Slide 9 Developing Professional Branch Management Teams Accreditation of in-company training plus work based project for University Advanced Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate Sales up 9.8%, Customer Impact scores up 40% WBL project linked to faster improvement

Halifax Community Bank: Journey in Practice 13/05/2015Slide 10 “JIP is the Jewel in the Crown for the Lloyds Bank Group in Professionalising the retail banking workforce” Peter Hallard, Group Learning Director “To gain a qualification from a University while carrying out my day job is a fantastic opportunity” Ian Grady, Branch Manager “Furthermore I have a business plan which really fits my branch” Sandra Dixon, Branch Manager

The Work Based Learning proposition 13/05/2015Slide 11 values the learning already held by the individual and their organisation, enables the individual to plan their own programme, is flexible in delivery eg distance/ or in-company learning programme, is flexible to meet individual/organisational needs, leads to internationally recognized higher education qualifications.

Work Based Learning 13/05/2015Slide 12 focuses on the development, conduct and learning from work based projects, aims to develop the individual as a more effective work based learner, aims to contribute to the organisation through the creation of new knowledge and the application of learning to achieve organisational objectives.

WBL suggests new kinds of HE/Employer partnerships 13/05/2015Slide 13 Beyond Joint design of programmes Combine individual learning and organisational development Create strategic partnerships for knowledge recognition, creation and use

Linking WBL to the knowledge requirements of employers 13/05/2015Slide 14 Focus on organisational objectives to ensure that knowledge has a performative edge and is thus of value to the organisation. Develop strategies for working with tacit knowledge eg focus reflexive practice to enhance individual knowledge recognition, creation, dissemination and use. Fully exploit the structural capital of partner organisations in fostering knowledge recognition, dissemination, creation and use and seek to enhance the structural capital of organisations.

Follow up reading 13/05/2015Slide 15 Garnett J (2012), Authentic work integrated learning, in Hunt L, & Chalmers D (eds), University teaching in focus: A learning-centred approach, ACER Press: Melbourne. Costley C and Critten P (2012) The Business Value of Structured Workplace Learning, Glocal Focus Special Supplement 6(1) Garnett J, Costley C and Workman B (eds) (2009) Work Based Learning: Journeys to the core of Higher Education, London: Middlesex University Press Higher Education Academy (2008) Work-based learning Workforce development: connections, frameworks and processes, York: HEA Contact: Contact: