Syllabus: Teaching and Learning in Higher Education – Theory and Practice

Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to introduce participants to basic approaches in higher education teaching and learning and thus provide a pedagogical foundation on which to build. The overall goal is for the course participant to be able to make informed decisions in their teaching to benefit students’ learning.

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of the course, the participant shall be able to:

• describe and explain fundamental concepts of teaching and learning in higher education with particular focus on science studies,
• account for national and local rules and regulations of relevance for higher education.

Competence and skills

On completion of the course, the participant shall be able to:

• discuss and problematise students’ learning in science as a field of knowledge based on theories in teaching and learning in higher education,
• analyse learning outcomes, content, learning activities and forms of assessment, with focus on students’ learning,
• discuss the possibilities and limitations of physical and digital learning environments for students' learning within their own field of knowledge,
• discuss the importance of inclusive teaching for students' learning,
• present a group project, both in writing and orally, that is relevant to the course content and grounded in scientific literature,
• individually account for their own contribution to the group project,
• provide constructive feedback on others' course assignments and projects.

Judgement and approach

On completion of the course, the participant shall be able to:

• reflect on their teaching role and relationship to students, and review and reflect on their own development as a teacher, all based on their specific teaching situation.

Course content

The course is based on research and literature in higher education teaching and learning, as well as on relevant policies. The following overall themes are addressed during the course:

• learning in higher education
• the role of the teacher
• learning outcomes, teaching and learning activities, and forms of assessment
• laws and regulations
• physical and digital learning environments
• equal opportunities, gender equality and diversity perspectives
• reflective practice and teacher development

Course design

Teaching is in the form of scheduled face-to-face course sessions and self-study components. The forms of teaching include:

• lectures,
• discussions and exercises,
• seminars and workshops,
• group project work,
• reflective assignments.

Assessment

Assessment anchored in the learning outcomes is based on:

• active participation in discussions,
• written and oral presentation of group project work,
• written self-reflection on learning and development,
• giving feedback on others’ course assignments.

Grading scale

The grades awarded are Fail and Pass. A passing grade on all assessed components is required for a grade of Pass on the course.

Language

The course is conducted in English.

Entry requirements

The course is aimed at teaching staff and doctoral students with no previous training in teaching and learning.

Further information

Credits for this course cannot be counted together with credits for NAMN005, NMN003F and NMN002F (Teaching and learning in higher education – theory and practice (short version)).