Strategic Initiatives

Under the overall direction of the Vice Principal (Academic) the Office is led by Rowena Pelik, as Director of Academic Strategy and Practice, and Prof. Alison McCleery, as Director of Research Strategy and Practice. There are strong synergies between the ‘research’ and ‘academic’ realms and part of our work is to ensure that the University realises the full benefits from joint working and shared support.

We support three key University strategies

• The Academic Strategy 2009-2015, which guides the shape and nature of the academic portfolio (including Research Degree Provision - RDP) and defines the ‘academic signature’ of our provision
• The University’s innovative Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy 2010-2015, which sets the vision for the continuing development of learning, teaching and assessment practice across the University (embracing RDP and CPD alongside taught provision). The LTA Strategy introduced the Learning Resource Bank to support staff and celebrate our academic practice.
• The Research, Knowledge Transfer and Commercialisation Strategy.

We set and lead the quality enhancement agenda for the University and key strategic projects. These include:

• The Academic Portfolio Review 2011/12.
• Developing and Supporting the Curriculum 2011-2014 (current QAA Enhancement Theme).
• Feedback for Learning 2010-13.

We provide a wide range of activities that are designed to develop and support our staff both practically and strategically. These include:

• Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (HEA, SEDA and NMC accredited/recognised).
• MSc Blended and Online Education.
• The Teaching Fellow Scheme and Grant Fund.
• HEREN (Hub for Education Research at Edinburgh Napier).