BA (Hons) History And Politics
1
Awarding Institution/Body
Lancaster University
2
Teaching Institution
University Centre at Blackburn College
3
Work-based learning
Not applicable
4
Delivery modes
Full and Part Time
5
UCAS Code
6
Applicable subject benchmarks
History (2007)
Politics and International Relations
(2007)
7
8
National Occupational standards
None
Specific Benchmark statements
History (2007)
Politics and International Relations
(2007)
9
Date of PS preparation/revision
February 2012
10 Educational aims of the programme
The General aims of the programme are 
To provide the opportunity for students to gain the skills, knowledge and
confidence to become knowledgeable, imaginative, articulate, confident,
multi-skilled and highly employable persons.

For the students to acquire the ability to recognise, understand, analyse and
critically evaluate issues and developments in the disciplines studied

to equip students with transferable knowledge and skills to enable them to
play a full part in their chosen educational/career pathway including the
provision
of
opportunities
for
education/professional qualifications.
further
progression
in
higher

To encourage students to study and widen their knowledge for self-interest
and self-development
The educational aims of the programme are 
To provide students with opportunities to engage in a critical and inter-disciplinary
approach to the study of History and Politics

To produce graduates who have knowledge and understanding of the historical and
political context of the contemporary world and past societies

To produce learners who are knowledgeable about the role and impact of ideas in a
number of different social, political, historical and cultural contexts.

To produce students who are independent thinkers and learners

To produce graduates who can effectively investigate causation and effect and
interpret phenomenon in a nuanced way.
11 Programme Synopsis
These disciplines can be considered different sides of same coin: the political context of
History and the historical context of Politics. They are complementary and interpenetrative.
Therefore History and Politics in this programme share much in common in terms of subject
matter, concepts, ideas and approaches. Political science has
a different but
complementary focus to that of History– it is concerned as discipline with the distribution of
power and a focus on who makes decisions when where and how, meanwhile History has a
broader reach – including Politics within its discipline but reaching into materials such as
literature and cultural issues. Therefore, students study political systems both historical and
contemporary in both disciplines and consider how political systems have developed over
time. Political ideas and ideologies are studied within the study of Politics but also their
development is considered within History modules, as is their effect on History, historical
movements, and events.
12 Intended Learning Outcomes
The programme provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the
following learning outcomes:
Knowledge and Understanding.
Students must demonstrate critical
understanding, at the appropriate level, of:
A1 The nature and significance of History and Politics including definitions of
their boundaries and differing approaches to the study of these subjects.
A2 The contested nature of knowledge and understanding within the disciplines
of History and Politics
A3 A range of key concepts, theories and methods employed in study of both
History and Politics, their application and the strengths and weaknesses of
differing approaches
A4 The relationship between theory, argument and evidence
A5 How people have existed, acted and thought in the very different context of
the past; the impact on political ideas and developments on such context
A6 How to locate primary resources, to read and analyse texts and other
primary sources, both critically and empathetically, while addressing
questions of categorisation, content, perspective and purpose
A7 The advantages, disadvantages and opportunities afforded by a wide variety
of primary and secondary sources
A8 The complexity and diversity of situations, events and past mentalities and
their interconnectedness
A9 The problematic nature of historical interpretation, specifically in relation to
contrasting ideological perspectives, the interpretation of complex,
ambiguous, conflicting and often incomplete evidence, and the temptation
to produce simplistic interpretations rather than look for multi-causal
explanations.
A10 The many varieties of History as reflected in the scope and range of modules
on offer in the programme and ultimately beyond it
A11 The nature of the discipline of History both as an academic subject but also
as a means of developing a personal understanding of one’s place and roots
in society and in the world
A12 The intellectual foundations of Political Science
A13 The definitions of what constitutes the political and its nature
A14 The extent to which the practice of politics, its processes and institutions
differ between nations and non-state bodies.
A15 The relationship of Politics to ideology and the means by which ideological
positions and inferences infiltrate media coverage of politics thereby helping
set discourses and agendas
A16 How students as citizens can contribute to political debate at a variety of
levels and help influence policy outcomes.
A17 How the political past shapes the political present
A18 The extent to which political change occurs and in what ways it manifests
itself in a globalising world.
A19 The significance of Politics and International Relations to the everyday lives
Level
4, 5, 6
4,5,6
4, 5, 6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5
4,5
4,5,6
4,5,6
5,6
4,5,6
of citizens at a local, national, European and international level
Critical-thinking/intellectual skills. Students must demonstrate skills, at the
appropriate level, of:
B1 Reviewing, synthesising and evaluating evidence and information, including
published sources for presentation, in a variety of forms including how to
identify issues for enquiry
B2 Developing a reasoned argument
B3 Exercising critical judgement and assessing ethical implications
B4 Engaging in comparative analysis
B7 An ability to be self critical, be aware of and critically evaluate one’s own
assumptions, ideas and values
B8 Assessing and evaluating continuity and change throughout the historical
periods studied
B9 Evaluating cause and effect in History
Level
Subject Specific Skills. Students must demonstrate skills, at the appropriate level,
of:
C1 Developing a familiarity and engaging critically with the normative and
positivist foundations of Politics, and the vocabulary of political debate, and
the political and historical context of change.
C2 Applying different concepts, theories and methods to the analysis of political
ideas, ideology, institutions and behaviour, both contemporary and historical
C3 Examining and evaluating political policy, both contemporary and historical
C4 An ability to use different methods of political and historical enquiry
C5 An ability to report accurately empirical research findings
C6 Applying core theories to real world situations around them
C7 Integrating ideas and findings across multiple perspectives in History,
Politics as well as those of other disciplines
C8 Ability to undertake and present scholarly work
C9 An ability to undertake and relate enquiry to their self, domestic and
national experiences, wider social groups and a European theme, and global
themes, phenomenon and trends
C10 Utilising effectively primary sources, including visual and material sources
like archaeological and topographical evidence, paintings and cartoons,
diaries and broadsheets, photographs, films and sound recordings whilst
making particular use of local resources.
C11 Gathering, organising and deploying evidence, data and information from a
variety of sources.
Level
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
5,6
4,5,6
5, 6
4, 5, 6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
5,6
4,5,6
4, 5, 6
4,5,6
4, 5, 6
Key Transferable Skills. Students must demonstrate skills , at the appropriate level, of:
D1
D2
D3
D4
D5
D6
D7
Self-discipline; self-direction; independence of mind, and initiative
Ability to work with others, and have respect for others' reasoned views and
contribute effectively to the achievement of common goals.
Ability to gather, organise and deploy evidence, data and information; and
familiarity with appropriate means of identifying, finding, retrieving, sorting
and exchanging information
Developing analytical ability
The capacity to consider critically and solve problems, including complex
problems to which there is no single solution
The ability to organize, structure and express oral and written argument and
debate including key aspects of coherence, clarity and fluency of expression
Using communication and information technologies for the retrieval,
analysis and presentation of information. Presentational skills may include a
focus upon delivery (in addition to content), time management, usage of
audiovisual resources and an ability to stimulate debate
Level
4,5,6
4,5,6
4,5,6
4
5, 6
4,5,6
4,5,6
13 Programme Structures and Requirements, Levels, Modules, Credits and Awards
Title
BA (Hons)
and Politics
Level
History Four
Credits
discipline
History: 60
per Total Credits
Five
Politics: 60
History: 60
120
Six
Politics: 60
History: 60
120
120
Politics: 60
Or
Interdisciplinary: 30
History: 45
Politics: 45
IN TOTAL 360
Module Title
Credits
Level
LEVEL FOUR
60 CREDITS OF HISTORY
Introduction to Historiography and Historical 15
4
Sources
Status
Mandatory
British Economic and Social History 1750 - 1939 15
4
Local History
15
4
Place in the Sun: Europe and the Race for 15
4
Empire 1600-1914
60 CREDITS OF POLITICS
Are we what we Eat? Introduction to Social 15
4
Science
Introduction to Political Theory
15
4
Introduction to British Government and Politics 15
4
Comparative Politics
15
4
LEVEL FIVE
60 CREDITS OF HISTORY FROM:
th
The Long 18 Century in Perspective: British 15
5
Social History
Totalitarian Regimes
15
5
Total Warfare: World Wars One and Two in 15
5
Perspective
History of the USA 1775 - 1960
15
5
Never Had it so Good: Britain 1945-1979
15
5
Witchcraft and Magic in Early Modern England 15
5
Jewel in the Crown: Indian History 1600-1990
15
5
Cromwell and the English Civil War
15
5
60 CREDITS OF POLITICS FROM:
Local and Regional Government in Britain and 15
5
Europe
New Politics in Britain
15
5
European Union
15
5
Political Ideas and the Making of the Modern 15
5
World: the Western Perspective
Political Ideas and the Making of the Modern 15
5
World: the Islamic Perspective
Government and Politics of the USA
15
5
Politics in Literature
15
5
Campaigning
15
5
Europe, Culture and Society
15
5
Social Science Research Methods (SSRM) 15
5
incorporating SPSS
LEVEL SIX
ROUTE A
60 CREDITS OF HISTORY FROM:
Dissertation (History)
30
6
British Labour History 1792-1926
15
6
From Dynastic State to Nation-state: Politics 15
6
and Government in a changing Europe, 17501900.
History as Film and Film as History
15
6
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Mandatory
Mandatory
Optional
Optional
Optional
History of Ireland 1798-1921
15
6
From Medieval to Modern: Culture, Ideas and 15
6
Society in Early Modern Europe
Debates on the Russian Revolution
15
6
The History of British Women 1800-2000
15
6
60 CREDITS OF POLITICS FROM:
International Relations and Globalisation
15
6
Contemporary Issues in International Human 15
6
Rights
Riots, Public Disorders and responses of the 15
6
State
The International Politics of Post-War Europe 15
6
1945 - Present
United States Foreign Policy and the making of 15
6
a New Global Order
War And Peace: Studies In Conflict, Political 15
6
Violence And Their Resolution
Saving the World?: Green Politics, Green 15
6
Society
E-SOAP-BOX – E Communications, Ideas and 15
6
Interactivity
Have I Got News for You? Contemporary Issues 15
6
in the Media
ROUTE B
60 CREDITS OF HISTORY FROM:
British Labour History 1792-1926
15
6
From Dynastic State to Nation-state: Politics 15
6
and Government in a changing Europe, 17501900.
History as Film and Film as History
15
6
History of Ireland 1798-1921
15
6
From Medieval to Modern: Culture, Ideas and 15
6
Society in Early Modern Europe
Debates on the Russian Revolution
15
6
The History of British Women 1800-2000
15
6
60 CREDITS OF POLITICS FROM:
Dissertation (Politics)
30
6
International Relations and Globalisation
15
6
Contemporary Issues in International Human 15
6
Rights
Riots, Public Disorders and responses of the 15
6
State
The International Politics of Post-War Europe 15
6
1945 - Present
United States Foreign Policy and the making of 15
6
a New Global Order
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Mandatory
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
War And Peace: Studies In Conflict, Political 15
6
Violence And Their Resolution
Saving the World?: Green Politics, Green 15
6
Society
E-SOAP-BOX – E Communications, Ideas and 15
6
Interactivity
Have I Got News for You? Contemporary Issues 15
6
in the Media
ROUTE C
30 CREDITS
Dissertation (Interdisciplinary)
30
6
45 CREDITS OF HISTORY FROM:
British Labour History 1792-1926
15
6
From Dynastic State to Nation-state: Politics 15
6
and Government in a changing Europe, 17501900.
History as Film and Film as History
15
6
History of Ireland 1798-1921
15
6
From Medieval to Modern: Culture, Ideas and 15
6
Society in Early Modern Europe
Debates on the Russian Revolution
15
6
The History of British Women 1800-2000
15
6
45 CREDITS OF POLITICS FROM:
International Relations and Globalisation
15
6
Contemporary Issues in International Human 15
6
Rights
Riots, Public Disorders and responses of the 15
6
State
The International Politics of Post-War Europe 15
6
1945 - Present
United States Foreign Policy and the making of 15
6
a New Global Order
War And Peace: Studies In Conflict, Political 15
6
Violence And Their Resolution
Saving the World?: Green Politics, Green 15
6
Society
E-SOAP-BOX – E Communications, Ideas and 15
6
Interactivity
Have I Got News for You? Contemporary Issues 15
6
in the Media
14
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Mandatory
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
Optional
This is a Joint Honours programme and therefore the learning and teaching strategy aims to
encourage and foster interdisciplinary enquiry. This requires high levels of analysis and
synthesis; the teaching and learning strategy has a focus therefore on encouraging both
intra and inter-disciplinary deliberation by drawing links between disciplines and disparate
knowledge bases to inform analysis and evaluation, recognising the complementary nature
of the analytical tools and subject matter within the disciplines, and encouraging lateral
thinking in relation to subject matter, understanding across academic boundaries, critical
evaluation across disciplines and the ways in which knowledge is now used in a postmodernist context as open ended in terms of subject specialisms. The teaching and learning
strategy throughout the programme aims to develop in students an understanding of the
limits of their knowledge and that most forms of knowledge are contested. Students engage
with a variety of theories, concepts, principles and interpretations, differentiating between
alternative approaches to the study of the Joint Honours disciplines. As the programme
progresses, learning and teaching strategies become more symbiotic –looking beyond
narrow subject considerations to encompass a variety of approaches and function as
independent political scientists and historians.
Whilst teaching and learning occurs through the means of interactive lecture and student
led seminar, the programme team strives to complement the student experience with a
range of supplementary activities. At all levels the programmes will be supported by the use
of guest speakers, workshops and external visits. Students will be encouraged to take part in
field trips and other activities that reinforce the academic learning processes. For example
local Member of Parliament and former Cabinet Minister Rt Hon Jack Straw gives a guest
lecture each year to first year students covering a range of contemporary issues and policy
outcomes, always linked strongly to academic debates and controversies covered in the
programme. The programme team also arrange study trips to the Houses of Parliament and
the European Parliament; and has arranged study visits to Istanbul, Prague and Marrakesh,
while the School runs an annual visit to New York. The team responds to contemporary
issues by encouraging students to become involved with the Student Union, which many do
(including standing for office), and arranges debates and events such as the 2010 General
Election ‘question time’ event with all Blackburn Constituency candidates.
Formative Assessment
Students are given individual feedback after each semester enabling them to highlight their
strengths, for tutors to encourage reflection on these and promote skills transferability. This
is in addition to the feedback given as a matter of course on assignments and in pastoral
and academic tutorial sessions.
Summative Assessment
In terms of summative assessment, formal assessment takes place through a combination
of examination and/or assessed essay and/or assessed seminar.
Level four
At this level students are developing an awareness of academic study skills and the
focus
on
formative assessment is related to students’ ability to understand criteria,
develop awareness of study skills and begin to appreciate their own strengths and areas for
development. Summative assessment however concentrates on developing the students’
ability to comprehend and use key historical concepts, Historiography, key political
concepts, and to begin to formulate complex arguments
Level five
At this level modules aim to test deeper knowledge and understanding and the ability to
apply and evaluate key concepts, subject specific knowledge and develop skills of reflective
practice. By the end of Level Five students are able to apply the higher order academic skills
required for Honours level study.
Level six
Students are measured on their ability to critique explanations of complex situations,
postulate theoretical solutions to real world problems, critically evaluate contending
theoretical, interpretative and historiographical
approaches, separate reality from
representation and nuance and substantiate arguments within structured and defined
guidance and criteria.
15 Support for students and their learning
Regardless of the combination studied all students studying under the Joint Honours
framework take part in the collective Joint Honours tutorial system under the direction of
the Joint Honours programme leader, from a pastoral perspective.
All Joint Honours students across the different disciplines/awards come together in group
tutorial giving the opportunity for collaboration and support for the interdisciplinary nature
of studying a Joint Honours programme. Such an approach forges an identity for Joint
Honours separate from single Honours Social Science; giving the framework a distinct
identity and a sense of belonging for students. 1:1 Joint Honours pastoral or academic
tutorials are also available to students, as are 1:1s on specific subject areas with a relevant
member of staff. Such an approach gives opportunity to discuss the linkages between the
disciplines studied, students’ progress in both specific subject areas and in developing skills
of interdisciplinary analysis.
The Centre has an effective infrastructure for supporting students throughout their study
and these support systems and processes have be commended by awarding bodies, external
agencies, students themselves and employers. Support systems and learning and teaching
strategies ensure that students understand the assessments tasks, criteria and relevant
procedures at appropriate times. In line with ethical and equitable principles the tutorial
model explicitly ensures that there is no bias in terms of gender, sexual orientation,
ethnicity, religion or belief, age, class or disability.
The level of expertise and effectiveness in this respect has been noted in the latest QAA
report which notes that
“there is an exemplary tutorial model tailored to meet the needs of higher education
students through personal development planning and pastoral care” [IQER SE October 2010]
To address the widening participation priorities, UCBC has positioned itself by ensuring that
there is a developing strategy in terms of learning and teaching which is flexible, accessible
and inclusive at national and international level. Staff and managers develop specific
approaches to address the need of students from diverse backgrounds. Learning, teaching
and assessment strategies consistently address, review and modify learning opportunities
and practices through the sharing of good practice. Student, and where appropriate
employer feedback, also informs the enhancement process. Continued investment in
relevant staff development and CPD promotes positive experiences for students as learners
and consumers.
Robust and accessible data management systems contribute to the enhancement process
by allowing curriculum teams and managers to monitor recruitment, attendance, retention,
achievement, success and progression and make informed and timely decisions.
In accordance to UCBC policy, the programme utilises the e register system and recently a
new system to notify the programme leader of any absence notified by students in all
programme groups was introduced. These are checked with Year Tutors, and checked
against email/ phone call notifications. All absences without notification are followed up by
the Year Tutor via email or telephone.
Multiple absences are followed up by the
Programme Leader with the School Lead Tutor and extended absence without contact is
forwarded to the UC Senior Tutor.
The notifications, policies and contact details for all support services are included on the
programme VLE site. Within the School there are various specified tutors who are involved
in weekly meetings with the Student Engagement Team, Disability Team, Library Support
Staff and Student Engagement and Tutorial Manager with information from these meetings
disseminated through weekly School meetings. In addition, individual team year tutors are
involved in discussion with Disability and Support staff with issues related to Exam Access,
in-class support, disability disclosure and related concerns.
The timetabling of the Joint Honours programme is designed to be as “family friendly” as
possible within the constraints imposed by rooming and staff availability and there is
evening provision for part time students which full timers may also attend. Part time
students are of course welcome to attend day time provision, which some do, but our
experiences so far show us that the day time part time market attracts a different student
from the evening which where the bulk of our part time study has lain.
Part Time learners have access to the same support structures and services as full time
students, and are included in the same dialogue forums as all students. Distance learners,
with no face to face contact at all, have not as yet formed a part of any cohort. Tutorials,
feedback and online discussion are available to all students in summer school modules and
can be increased to allow for full participation for students as we increase the potential for
distance and blended learning. Currently staff are able to utilise forums, blogs and VLE
dissemination and communication in all modules, and live chat in some modules is available.
Students are able to access free software and some of the hardware required (headsets/
webcams) although they would need broadband from home/ remote access locations.
Our academic support system is aligned with the UCBC systems and as part of the
application process as well as that of enrolment we encourage students to declare their
needs and then direct them to the services and support available so that they start the
academic year with support in place. However we also discuss needs as part of the personal
tutorial process and re-evaluate if necessary in conjunction with the central support team.
Of particular note is the programme committee meeting structure that operates 3-4 times
per year and is minuted.
U-HUB
The U-HUB is a one stop shop for enrichment, support and learning within the centre and is
situated within the student coffee bar in UCBC and is accessible to all.
Within the U-HUB students can access information on:
Enrichment

Student Engagement

Student Union
Support

Student Finance

The Careers Team

Disability Service

Counselling Service

International Office
Learning

English for Academic purposes

Advanced academic writing skills

University study skills

Advanced university study skills

ICT workshops

Summer School which includes: How to write a dissertation, Advanced Critical
Thinking, Advanced Referencing skills, Advanced PowerPoint skills, Preparation for
Employment.
Student Support Team
Student engagement officers are available within the U-HUB for learners who have come
into difficulty for whatever reason. They help and support learners with any aspect of their
studies, develop study skills and offer help and advice on projects and dissertations.
16 Criteria for admission
University Centre at Blackburn College (UCBC) accepts a wide range of qualifications. The
text below is an outline of the general entry requirements for our undergraduate courses.
Applicants are normally expected to have completed a Level 3 qualification, (i.e. A-levels or
equivalent). However applicants without the standard entry requirements, but who can
demonstrate relevant work / life experience will be considered on an individual basis, and
may be asked to attend an interview.
The minimum entry requirement for Degree level study at UCBC is 200 UCAS tariff points,
which can be made up from one of the following:
Two GCE A2 level passes
BTEC National Diploma/Certificate – pass with Merits
The new Diploma
One double award VCE Advanced level or equivalent
Other qualifications such as Scottish Highers, Welsh Baccalaureate, Irish Leaving Certificates,
International Baccalaureate, with the required UCAS points
Mature Students
A considerable number of our student body is made up of students 21 and over. Mature
students may not have the standard entry requirements but may have gained knowledge
and skills from relevant work or life experience. Therefore we would consider such
applications on an individual basis and may ask applicants to attend an interview to discuss
relevant life experience in more detail.
Alternative entry routes
We may require successful completion of an alternative entry route to a threshold level
recognised as being appropriate for entry to Higher Education. For example many mature
students study qualifications such as the Access course, which we recognise as an
alternative entry route.
Additional selection criteria
UCBC are committed to having a fair and transparent admissions process, and applicants are
considered on an individual basis. When considering an application the College takes into
account grades, predicted grades, references and personal statement, taking into account
motivation and commitment to succeed and any relevant experience. Applicants may
therefore be invited to interview or asked to provide a portfolio of appropriate work, and
this may therefore form part of the application process.
English Language
All students applying to UCBC must show that they have a good level of spoken and written
English. The following qualifications are accepted.
UK Qualifications
GCSE or IGCSE English
GCE O level English
AS Level English
A Level English Language
Scottish Certificate of Education - Standard Grade English
Scottish Certificate of Education - Higher Grade English
Irish Leaving Certificate - Ordinary Level English
All of these qualifications should be passed at Grade C or above, except for: AS Level English
(Grade E or above), A Level English Language (Grade E or above) and the Scottish Certificate
of Education (Grade D or above)
Disclosure of Disability
When considering whether to offer a place where a learner discloses a disability the
disclosure will not be taken into consideration. Applicants will be offered a place according
to their academic ability, aptitude, prior experience or portfolio.
An Information Sharing Interview will be arranged by Disability Services to discuss with the
learner and the Programme Leader the implications of undertaking the programme in
relation to their disability. Where it is deemed that reasonable adjustment is not feasible
and or the prospective learner will be unable to meet the requirements of the Core
Academic Criteria the learner may choose to withdraw their application or it may be
necessary for UCBC to withdraw the offer of a place or to offer alternative provision.
There is no requirement for work placement to gain admission to the programme.
There are no CRB requirements to gain admission to the programme. Where students take
a work placement which may inform their study (but does not form a formal part of the
programme), they must arrange CRB clearance themselves if applicable.
There are no specific plans for APL at any level of this programme although individual cases
shall be taken on merit and dealt with on a case by case basis in line with the University APL
policy.
17
Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and
learning.
Established and effective quality systems within UCBC will ensure that the programme is ‘fit
for purpose’. They recognise the centrality for feedback opportunities and internal and
external reviews. Student feedback is gained through a structured system incorporating
individual and group academic and pastoral face-to-face and on-line tutorials and formative
assessments, together with student committee meetings at programme, School, UCBC and
College level. The systems include processes for gathering anonymous and open feedback
from students. Staff and employer feedback is gained through structured team meetings,
employer mentor and forum discussions and programme review meetings. The programme
will also be audited by the External Examiner and will be appraised and evaluated annually
in a report which is subject to structured levels of scrutiny by the different committees at
School, UCBC, College and University levels.
The following instruments are used in assessing fitness for purpose:

Meetings of the Academic Council;

Weekly meetings of the HE Management team;

Termly meetings of the HE Quality group;

Meetings of the School Board;

Meetings of the School team;

Meetings of the Programme team;

Analysis of data on retention, achievement and progression;

Peer reviews;

Annual Programme Reports;

Programme Consultant meetings;

External Examiner’s visits and reports;
Staff Development

Staff involved in research

In-house staff development

Work based learning training

Web based learning training

Pedagogic training

Appraisals and peer assessment

Work shadowing
Team Meetings:
Team meetings will be held at least twice each academic year to consider issues relating to
the day-to-day management of the provision. These meetings will involve the academic staff
involved in the provision and student representatives. The University’s programme
consultant(s) will be entitled to attend formal team meetings and to receive minutes of
meetings.
Award (examination) Boards:
Award (examination) Boards will be held at least once in each academic year. These
meetings will require the attendance of members of the delivery team(s), external
examiner(s), external Lancaster University programme consultant (s) and a member of the
University Academic Standards and Quality team.
Module Review:
Anonymous student surveys for each module taught will be carried out at the end of each
module. These surveys will be passed to the programme leader who will prepare a short
evaluative report for the module. This will be passed to the review meeting detailed below
and will be incorporated into the end of year reflection undertaken by the delivery team
and discussed in the Annual Report.
Review Meetings:
At least once in every delivery year, the programme team and where practicable,
employers’ and/or outside academic representatives, will meet to evaluate the whole of the
provision. The review meeting will be provided with copies (in summary where appropriate)
of the results, student feedback and evaluative module reports. The Programme Leader will
then produce an overall evaluative report and action plan for consideration by the College
and by the University.
18 Regulation of Assessment
All programme work assessment briefs will include details of:

The learning outcomes covered by the assignment;

The extent of the coverage of these outcomes;

The tasks to be completed;

Indicative grading criteria;

The author and verifier of the assignment.
Details of the assessment methods to be used are detailed in each module descriptor. All
the subject modules for this programme have been designed with explicit, formal
assessment criteria.
As part of the standard approach to assessment within the Centre and in line with relevant
requirements, where students believe that forms of assessment unfairly disadvantage them
based on a disability or an underlying medical condition, a discussion about an alternative
assessment that is equivalent will be considered, involving the student, the tutor and the
programme leader in discussion with the disability team where appropriate.
This is moderated through the module leader based on the choices being able to meet the
learning outcomes of the module and highlighting equivalency across the student
submissions. The initial instructions and choices offered in the assignment will be reviewed
through the existing academic infrastructure, utilising both internal and external
moderation. In much the same way as the final marks are assessed after the event, so will
the format of alternative assessments be examined and assessed for fairness in the
moderation and standardisation processes.
Marking:
The regulations governing the first and second marking of examinations and assignments
and their subsequent moderation are provided for within the Learning, Teaching and
Assessment Strategy for the University Centre Blackburn College.
First marking of
assignments is carried out by the module tutor. A sample is then second marked in line with
the above strategy and made available for moderation at the end of the semester. The Head
of School acts as Leader Internal Moderator and has oversight of the process and final
agreed marks. These samples are then made available for final consideration of grades by
the External Examiner. External examiners will be entitled to require students to make
presentations of their work before final moderation of marks. All formal examinations are
anonymously marked by the module tutor and second marked by a member of the team.
Examination papers are subject to the same rules regarding internal moderation and all
scripts are made available for final review by the External Examiners. Occasionally, it may be
necessary to vary these regulations – for example, to accommodate substantial practical
exercises. Permission for any variation of these regulations will require the prior consent of
the external examiner(s) and course consultant(s) for the scheme.
19
Role of Course Consultant
Course Consultants will advise the Scheme team on the design, delivery and assessment of
the scheme.
20
Role of External Examiners
External Examiners will advise the Scheme Assessment Board on matters of standards and
fairness of the assessment process and if necessary offer advice on individual student
results.
External Examiners will report on:
 Whether the standards set are appropriate with reference to external reference
points, including subject benchmarks, framework for Higher Education
Qualifications and other reference points
 Standards of student performance and draw comparisons of those standards
with similar programmes
 The robustness of assessment procedures.
21
Due for revalidation
In 2016/17