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Department of Physics and Astronomy

Starting to Teach in MPS (906F3)

Starting to Teach in MPS

Module 906F3

Module details for 2025/26.

15 credits

FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)

Module Outline

This module is designed to emulate the University-wide Starting to Teach module, but be tailored so that context and specific examples focus on teaching and learning in mathematics and physics. The University-wide Starting to Teach module is accredited by the Higher Education Academy, and successful completion of the University-wide module is recognised with Associate Membership of the HEA. There is an application in process with the HEA to change the validation to include this module. It is expected that this will be successful.

The module aims to support MPS PHD students in developing the core skills, methodologies and confidence relevant to effectively planning, delivering and evaluating HE teaching and learning sessions. Combining information with practical exercises and written assignments, the module introduces the practicalities of teaching effectively in a variety of environments and formats, alongside considering the ethical issues and pastoral expectations surrounding university teaching.

This module also aims to address the specific concerns and issues facing all those who are relatively new to HE teaching, providing the opportunity to identify and discuss particular problems and learn from each other’s experiences. In doing so, this module not only provides advice and training specifically tailored to those new to the HE classroom, through such peer-to-peer discussions, you will gain the kind of reflective practice central to your continued professional development.

Module learning outcomes

Design effective learning and teaching sessions that demonstrate practical application of knowledge and understanding of scholarship on the different ways in which students learn with specific disciplinary approaches relating to Mathematics and Physics.

Design, use and critically evaluate a range of discipline-specific learning activities including a range of learning and teaching materials and using learning technologies where appropriate.

Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of the practical application of a range of assessment techniques to evaluate and support learning, and provide effective feedback that enables students to monitor their own progress and develop as independent learners.

Evidence understanding and application of appropriate professional values relevant to role through teaching practice.

TermMethodDurationWeek pattern
Autumn SemesterWorkshop3 hours01101001011

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Prof Nicos Georgiou

Assess convenor
/profiles/329373

Dr Jackie Grant

Assess convenor
/profiles/34565

Prof Mark Hindmarsh

Assess convenor
/profiles/7423

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