This is a discussion document
and does not represent
University policy at this stage.

Teaching and Learning Committee

Curriculum Sub-Committee

Minutes

Minutes of the Sixth Meeting of the Sub-Committee held on 21 January 1997

By Invitation: Mr J Costello, Professor B A Marples, Dr R B Wilcockson, Professor G Lucas and Dr T J Gordon (for item 2) Dr B C Fisher (for item 3) and Dr L A Leger (for item 11)

In Attendance: Mr R A Bowyer

1. Minutes

The Minutes of the Fourth Meeting held on 15 October 1996 and the Fifth (Extraordinary) meeting held on 13 November 1996 were confirmed and signed.

2. MSc in Automotive Systems Engineering (Self-financing)

2.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Department of AAETS for the introduction of a new self-financing MSc programme in Automotive Systems Engineering. This had been designed with Ford Automotive Operations and was intended to replace the existing MSc programme in Advanced Automotive Engineering. Whilst the programme content had significant commonality with the existing MSc, a much higher level of integration of engineering topics would be achieved via a systems engineering framework. British Aerospace had expressed interest in a similar programme, but for the moment they were holding a watching brief.

2.2

The Sub-Committee made the following observations:

2.2.1

The proposals did not follow entirely the standard pro-forma, although the relevant information was provided.

2.2.2

The module specifications did not conform to the standard format; some fields would need to be completed (e.g. reading lists) or amplified (e.g. coursework components). Module codes would need to be set up and all details entered on to the module database. The module codes should appear in the programme regulations.

2.2.3

It was noted that students would be expected to attend a preliminary `refresher' module and complete an assessment at the end of it, or otherwise satisfy the department that they understood the material presented, prior to admission. Whilst unusual, the Sub-Committee considered this arrangement acceptable.

2.2.4

The requirement of "60 hours residential" for a 10-credit module was queried. This represented the total contact time over a 2-week residential period (or roughly 6 hours per day over two working weeks) built into modules on the existing programme. The Sub-Committee felt this was significantly higher than average for a 10-credit MSc module: the expectation was that private study time would be commensurately less. It was noted, however, that University-wide norms in terms of student effort had not been established at postgraduate level: This was an issue which might need to be addressed in the proposed shift from a credit tariff of 120 to 180 for a Master's degree.

2.2.5

The reference in certain modules to distance learning options was queried. It was reported that the possibility of offering modules in a distance learning format was being explored for the future. The Sub-Committee requested that any switch to distance learning mode be submitted for prior approval in view of quality assurance implications.

2.2.6

It was noted that whilst teaching generally would be based in Burleigh Court, sessions dependent on computing facilities would be undertaken in the department.

2.2.7

Attention was drawn to the heavy preponderance of assessment by coursework. The Sub-Committee was informed that this aspect of the programme had been discussed at length and was assured that the organisers would keep the balance of coursework and examinations under review.

2.2.8

The Sub-Committee felt that the comments from IPTME, Mechanical Engineering and Computer Studies implied that consultation had not been sufficiently detailed. It was pointed out that the theme-based structure of the new programme meant that these departments would not be asked to provide whole modules but contribute material to subject themes. The organisers were asked to clarify the inputs that would be required and help reassure the providing departments as soon as possible.

2.3

Subject to the revision of the module specifications to the satisfaction of the AD(T) and the Chair of the Sub-Committee, it was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and Learning Committee that a new self-financing MSc programme in Automotive Systems Engineering be introduced with effect from March 1997, to supersede the existing MSc in Advanced Automotive Engineering.

3. MSc in Engineering Management (Self-financing)

3.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Department of Mechanical Engineering for the introduction of an MSc programme in Engineering Management. This was a joint venture with the Joint Board for Engineering Management (JBEM). Students who successfully completed Part 1 and 2 of the JBEM Diploma would be able to register for the Loughborough MSc, which would comprise an industrially-based project to be completed normally over two years part-time. 60 credits would be assigned to the Diploma parts 1 and 2; 60 to the MSc project.

3.2

The Sub-Committee discussed the proposition that JBEM Diploma Parts 1 and 2 be accepted as equivalent to 60 modular credits of a Master's degree, in view of the possible precedent that might be set in APL/APEL terms. The Sub-Committee was assured as to the admission requirements for the Diploma, the level of the programme and quality assurance aspects such as the involvement of an External Examiner and programme review mechanisms. It was considered that the MSc as a whole would be comparable with other MSc degrees awarded in the Engineering Faculty.

3.3

It was requested that some additions be made to the programme regulations to embed the assessment of the project in the framework of GRMPA. It was noted that it would not be possible to achieve a distinction without grade transfer in respect of Parts 1 and 2 of the JBEM Diploma.

3.4

Subject to the amendment of programme regulations to the satisfaction of the AD(T) and the Chair of the Sub-Committee , it was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and Learning Committee that a new self-financing MSc programme in Engineering Management be introduced with effect from September 1997.

4. WEDC Preliminary Programme (Self-financing)

4.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Institute of Development Engineering, Civil and Building Engineering, for changes in the WEDC MSc preliminary programme. It was proposed that the duration of the programme be reduced from 9-10 months to 6 months and that there be some change in subject emphasis. These changes would address the broadening academic base of applicants and hopefully counter the decline in the numbers of overseas students attending full MSc programmes in WEDC by making the overall package more attractive to sponsors in terms of costs.

4.2

It was noted that the preliminary programme was intended to assess the academic capabilities of candidates who were not automatically eligible for direct entry to an MSc programme. The programme carried no University award but its successful completion was recognised by the University as an entry qualification to one of a suite of MSc programmes in WEDC and the Department of Civil and Building Engineering. The programme was not formally covered by University Regulations although analogous regulations had always been applied.

4.3

It was noted from the proposals that candidates who did not qualify for entry to the Master's degree might exit with a WEDC certificate. Some concern was expressed that such a certificate might be open to misrepresentation overseas and it was requested that the certificate itself be cleared with the Chair of the Sub-Committee and the Academic Secretary.

4.4

The Sub-Committee felt that there were policy issues concerning preliminary programmes at postgraduate level that warranted further consideration and agreed that this should be brought to the attention of the Teaching and Learning Committee.

4.5

The Sub-Committee was however content with the specific proposals under consideration and to allow these to proceed.

5. Undergraduate Programmes, Department of Mechanical Engineering

5.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Department of Mechanical Engineering for the revision of its B.Eng./M.Eng programmes in Mechanical Engineering to incorporate Materials Engineering and Optical Engineering streams. The separate B.Eng programmes in Mechanical and Materials Engineering and Mechanical and Optical Engineering would be discontinued. There would be a common first year with streaming thereafter. The proposals included improvements to the structure of the M.Eng programme. Over a period of four years numbers on the M.Eng would be expected to grow to about 40 students.

5.2

It was specifically noted that agreement on the proposals had been reached with IPTME.

5.3

Attention was drawn to the continued inclusion of a small number of `long thin modules' - 10 credit modules taught over two semesters. These had previously been allowed on resources/logistical grounds. 15-credit modules had, however, been removed.

5.4

It was noted that some imbalance in modular weightings between semesters resulted. However, since this was within bounds previously accepted (50/70) and in some cases could be avoided as it was dependent on students' choice of options, the Sub-Committee was prepared to allow this.

5.5

Certain minor drafting changes to the programme regulations were requested. It was also requested that certain module objectives be amplified and publication dates added to reading lists. Revised specifications would be required for the Individual Project Modules in Part C.

5.6

Subject to matters indicated in 5.5 above being addressed to the satisfaction of the AD(T) and the Chair of the Sub-Committee, it was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and learning Committee that approval be given to the revisions proposed with effect from September 1997. It was understood that students already registered on MME and MOE programmes and due to graduate after June 1997 would be consulted about transfer to the appropriate stream under the revised structure and their consent sought for the change in the title of their degree.

6. MSc in Industrial Mathematical Modelling

6.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Department of Mathematical Sciences for the revision of the MSc programme in Industrial Mathematical Modelling.

6.2

It was noted that the programme was not semesterised: all taught modules were delivered across semesters one and two with written examinations shortly after the Easter break.

6.3

It was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and Learning Committee that approval be given to the revisions proposed with effect from September 1997.

7. Undergraduate Programmes, Department of Mathematical Sciences

7.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Department of Mathematical Sciences for the revision of its undergraduate programmes. It was noted that the BSc programme in Mathematics and Education was included in the proposals, the responsibility for this programme having been transferred from the Department of Education. The programmes in PE, Sports Science and Mathematics and in Physics and Mathematics were also included, although administrative responsibility for these lay with partner departments. Appropriate consultation had been undertaken.

7.2

The proposals centred round modifications to the first year to take account of the different state of preparedness of incoming students: three new first year modules were proposed, with a knock-on effect on the timing of other modules. Opportunities for rationalisation had been taken where possible and the overall number of modules to be taught would be reduced by 20%.

7.3

The first year modifications would be coupled with a strengthening of the tutorial system to monitor the progress of individual students more closely.

7.4

Attention was drawn to the comments of the External Examiner concerning the differentiation of the MMath and BSc programmes at Part C. The issue had been fully discussed within the department which felt justified in not preventing BSc candidates in Part C from taking, as options, modules which were available, within a more restricted range, to MMath candidates.

7.5

It was noted that the modules specifications indicated that teaching sessions would be timetabled over 12 weeks. It was pointed out that no new material should be delivered after week 11 and no additional student effort be required beyond revision.

7.6

The graphical presentation of the programme structures was commended.

7.7

It was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and Learning Committee that approval be given to the revisions proposed, including the change in the title of the BSc in Mathematics and Education to Mathematics with Education, with effect from the September 1997 entry.

8. BSc in Mathematics and Management

8.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Department of Mathematical Sciences for the introduction of a new BSc programme in Mathematics and Management, to be offered in conjunction with the Business School. It was hoped that the programme would help to attract high quality students into the Department of Mathematical Sciences and help to maintain intakes at the same time as reducing the number of concessions. The programme used existing modules entirely.

8.2

Comments from an External Examiner for the Business School were tabled, together with a response from Business School staff. The External Examiner had expressed reservations about the detailed management content of the degree, but his comments were refuted by the Business School which pointed out that the content was entirely consistent with existing joint degrees. The Sub-Committee accepted the response, noting the possibility that the structure of the management modules for all the joint degrees might be reconsidered in a consistent manner in the future. The Sub-Committee was also assured that a Grade B in Mathematics at A-level would be required for entry to programme and there was no question of accepting applicants currently rejected by the Business School with only Grade D or E in Mathematics which was another matter of concern to the External Examiner.

8.3

It was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and Learning Committee that approval be given to the introduction of a new BSc programme in Mathematics and Management with effect from September 1997.

9. MA in Contemporary European Studies

9.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Department of European Studies for the restructuring of the MA programme in Contemporary European Studies which entailed the discontinuation of the existing MA programmes in Modern French Studies and Post-war German Studies. An assessed research methods and research design element was added to the programme.

9.2

In view of the low number of timetabled hours for modules, it was requested that the Method of Teaching, Learning and Assessment field in the module specifications should make reference to the amount of (directed) self-study expected.

9.3

It was requested that the module specifications be installed on the module database and missing fields be completed.

9.4

Subject to the revision of the module specifications to the satisfaction of the AD(T) and the Chair of the Sub-Committee, it was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and Learning Committee that approval be given to the restructuring proposed with effect from September 1997.

10. LPC in Back Care Management (self-financing)

10.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from CHaRM, Business School, for the introduction of a new self-financing LPC programme in Back Care Management. This would be based on the Interprofessional Curriculum for Back Care Advisors, and meet a perceived need for a programme of professional education and training in this field. It was designed on a day-release, non-residential basis. Like other CHaRM LPC programmes, it comprised modules totalling 45 credits, including a project report of 15 credits.

10.2

It was noted that some two-thirds of the teaching would be delivered by external speakers. CHaRM staff were identified as Internal Examiners for all but one module. In the latter case, the individual concerned would need to be appointed as an Examiner of the University.

10.3

It was requested that the module specifications be installed on the module database and the missing fields completed. The module codes should also appear in the programme regulations. It was pointed out that the process of setting up the module specification on hpa generated a pro forma on screen; once completed, the full specification could be printed from the database, ensuring that the hard copy was in the standard format for approval by the Sub-Committee.

10.4

Subject to revisions as indicated under 10.3 above to the satisfaction of the AD(T) and the Chair of the Sub-Committee, it was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and Learning Committee that approval be given to the introduction of a self-financing LPC programme in Back Care Management during 1997.

11. MSc in Economics; MSc in International Banking

11.1

The Sub-Committee considered proposals from the Department of Economics for the restructuring of the MSc in Economics, to be offered as a package of four MSc degrees under the general umbrella of Economics and Finance, and the associated revision of the MSc in International Banking. The MSc in European Economics and Finance would be discontinued. The general aim was to create degrees which would enhance the department's teaching quality and at the same time allow substantial efficiency gains to be realised. The proposals incorporated a rationalisation of modules from 34 10-credit equivalents to 16. Another objective was to have the department's Master's programmes recognised for ESRC financial support for postgraduate research training at doctoral level, giving the department ESRC `Mode A' status and enhancing its attractiveness to PhD students.

11.2

The four new degrees would be in: Financial Economics, International Economics and Finance, Monetary Economics and Economics and Finance. These shared a common set of programme regulations. The award would depend on the student's choice of options and an appropriately specialised dissertation. Tight specialisation criteria were laid down for the first three degrees; students who did not satisfy such tight specialisation would be awarded the more general MSc in Economics and Finance. It was requested that the department in conjunction with the AD(T) determine a procedure for confirming the title of the award and informing the Academic Registry well in advance of the final Programme Boards.

11.3

It was pointed out that the LPD would be available in Economics and Finance only (not in the three more specialist areas) and the relevant programme regulations would need adjustment accordingly.

11.4

Members queried the wide variation in the length of the dissertation allowed by the programme regulations (10,000-20,000 words). This would depend on the nature of the contents, for example, whether it was highly empirical or whether it included a literature review.

11.5

Subject to the modification of programme regulations (11.3 above), it was RECOMMENDED to the Teaching and Learning Committee that approval be given to the restructuring of the department's MSc programmes as proposed with effect from September 1997.

12. Chair's Action

15.1

BSc in Mathematics and Computation

to change to

BSc in Mathematics and Computing

from September 1997 entry

15.2

BEng/MEng in Environmental Systems Engineering

to revert to

BEng/MEng in Building Services Engineering

with immediate effect

13. Revised procedures

14. Any Other Business

14.1 Part-time MBA

The AD(T) for SSH informed the Sub-Committee that he had received preliminary proposals from the Business School for the restructuring of the part-time MBA, which involved breaking down the taught element of the programme entirely into 5 credit modules. Senate had ruled that at postgraduate level, modules should normally carry a weight of 10,15 or 20, and advice was sought as to how to respond to the Business School at this stage. It was RESOLVED that a meeting be held with the Business School staff concerned, to involve Dr Austin, Professor Feather, Mr Costello and Mr Bowyer, to explore the options available, in time for full proposals to be submitted to the next meeting of the Sub-Committee

15. Date of Next Meeting

* [Agenda]

.

Author - R A Bowyer

January 1997

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