The student voice in the enhancement of learning and teaching at Glasgow Clyde College has increased this academic year by the introduction of two Students’ Association initiatives which have been noted specifically in its recent Education Scotland External Review. The External Review states that the two initiatives are beginning to have a direct and positive influence on learning and teaching and equalities.
The Enhance your Learning and Teaching Experience (ELATE) Group is an innovative, learner-led group chaired by the Students’ Association President which meets monthly and facilitates student identification of good practice and its sharing across the curriculum. Recent topics which have been identified for further development and enhancement by staff and students are the VLE, ICT learner resources, the student intranet and peer learning. Similarly, the Inclusion, Disability, Equality and Access (IDEA) Group which is also student-led and chaired by the Students’ Association Vice-President has begun a range of activities to raise awareness of equality and diversity issues.
Proactive approaches by the Students’ Association and college staff have resulted in a significant increase in the number of class reps across the college. These include a welcome pack, an identification badge and brochure which emphasises the importance of the role (endorsed by the college) as well as a specific job description. Additionally, there is regular weekly e-mail contact between class reps and the Students’ Association President, bringing reps up-to-date with current college-wide issues. This year, class reps were given recognition for their activities by being invited to take part in the college-wide staff development week. This meant that class reps were both recognised for their work as well as promoting further development of the partnership ethos of the college staff and students.
For further information on these developments contact the Students’ Association President, Barclay McCrindle.
