FoNS Learning and Teaching Development Refresher Programme Outline

The programme offers a series of interventions, depending upon the staff member’s reason for joining the programme and their specific needs and/ or interests, including:

Teaching Mentor
Participants will be partnered with a mentor, an experienced member of staff who will observe teaching sessions (see below) and offer guidance and feedback throughout the programme.

FoNS LTDP Refresher Workshop
Recommended for all participants. This workshop will give participants the opportunity to discuss, in an informal setting, various aspects of lecturing and the chance to receive constructive feedback on their own lecturing as well as sharing best practice. The workshop is intended to enhance participants’ awareness and practice of a number of teaching methods, strategies and techniques for knowledge communication and to assist participants in examining and evaluating teaching in a supportive environment. 

Teaching Observations
The Teaching Mentor will observe 3 teaching sessions and offer guidance and feedback. 

One-to-One Coaching
Offered through the Imperial College Coaching Academy. Coaches are selected based on the kind of topics to be explored, so participants will be matched with a coach who has an understanding of education and teaching. 

EDU Courses 
Participants will be encouraged to enrol for any workshops offered via the EDU from which they might benefit.

Techniques for Effective Public Speaking
This masterclass supports academics who feel they could improve their style, credibility or confidence in these areas. The focus will be on developing vocal skills and power, increasing assertiveness and demonstrating confidence through body language. The workshop will include active facilitation and interactive scenarios in the academic context. The course leader is a professional actor from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama who will use actor-training techniques and personalised feedback to build competence and confidence.

Reflective Report/ Advance HE Fellowship Application
Participants may be asked to complete one of the following:

• A reflective assessment of their practical experience of teaching, and of the lessons learnt and progress made through the Refresher programme. This will be assessed on a pass/fail basis by the vice-Dean (Education) in liaison with the relevant Director of Undergraduate/ Postgraduate Studies and/or Head of Department, who will also provide feedback to the participant. Passing this element will be the final sign-off for the course.
• The Advance HE Fellowship Recognition application (at the level of Fellow), information on which can be found on the EDU webpages here.