15:15 Closing Keynote: Achieving Positive Outcomes for All:  What can we do and why does it matter?

Dr Helen May, Higher Education Consultant

Never before has it been more important to evidence the impact of our work on student outcomes or the wider society.  The Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework (TEF) and Access and Participation Plans (APP) require universities to demonstrate they are systematically monitoring and evaluating student outcomes; identifying any differentials; taking positive action to address them; and can evidence the impact of those interventions on the achievement of positive outcomes for all.

Over recent times, there has been a noticeable shift of emphasis away from a focus on the inequity of opportunity towards inequity of outcome.  This is exemplified in the recommended use of ‘Theory of Change’ by the Office for Students in the preparation of APPs, and the equal emphasis given within the TEF criteria to ‘Student Outcomes’ to that of ‘Teaching Quality’ or to ‘Achievement’ ‘Continuation’ and ‘Progression’ as to ‘Access’.  There are significant differential outcomes – whether of attainment, progression to employment/further study – particularly amongst those with protected characteristics, which Universities now need to urgently address. 

So, what does this mean for those working with students?  What actions could you take?  How do you know what difference you have made?  This presentation will reflect on the differences you can make through your daily practices; the power of monitoring students’ engagement and targeting as well as the importance of scholarship as a source of evidence. 

Helen will draw on her specialist background in inclusion as well as her significant experience as a national leader of learning and teaching.  Her presentation will also be informed by her leadership of an institutional wide TEF pilot and leading the Access and Participation evaluation plan as Head of Learning and Teaching in a city based, widening participation institution.

15:45 Best Poster Prize 

The winning poster will be announced as voted for by delegates.

16:00 Close