Case Study: University of Glasgow
Background
In an innovative collaboration with the University of Glasgow, we co-created a six-month development programme to specifically target the learning and development needs of professional services staff.
First, a design workshop was held with a wide range of University staff in different roles and from various schools, whose valuable insights were critical in shaping the programme objectives. Content was then designed and developed through a pilot programme, with continuous feedback from the group, resulting in tailored online learning modules, individual coaching sessions and virtual workshops.
Learners from the pilot programme attended a ‘graduation’ event where they met the new cohort of learners to continue and grow the University’s learning community. The video below highlights their key takeaways:
Challenge
Glasgow University wanted an accessible online programme for professional services staff that could fit with participants’ busy schedules. In time, the programme could be scaled for other schools and departments.
Professional services staff utilise a host of interpersonal skills for their roles that they could build on. This included communication skills, teamwork and leadership. They were keen to develop technical skills including project management, problem solving and data analysis.
To personally grow and progress in their careers, they also wanted to focus on job crafting and aligning their strengths and values to their roles. Learning about and creating an inclusive and mentally healthy workplace was important to them, and they wanted to embed this throughout the programme.
Solution
Digital Bricks has delivered DEI, wellbeing and personal and professional skills including leadership, communication skills and team working through our robust, globally renowned learning platform for many years. A suite of online modules was designed for the University, supported by the Four Pillars of Development:
- Communication and Collaboration
- Personal and Professional Development
- Culture and Community
- Projects and Processes.
A course space was developed with accessibility and community building in mind. An app for Android and Apple allowed real anytime, anywhere learning. Using a scaffolded approach meant learners were supported to take each bite-sized concept, practise it in their day-to-day roles and reflect on the process using the built-in personal journal.
Short pieces of interactive content were released each month, incrementally building into a full suite of learning over the six-month programme that the learners could refer back to at any time. Each theme was complemented by a virtual session where topics were discussed in a safe and inclusive environment. Online forums were used to connect the group and share learning, creating a long-term community of practice.
Outcome
Digital Bricks continuously evaluated the programme in collaboration with the University. This feedback helped to refine the programme for future cohorts and will continue to be evaluated, ensuring the programme always aligns with the evolving needs of the learners and the University.
We held an in-person ‘graduation’ on campus that celebrated the achievements of the current cohort and welcomed future learners. Featuring live guest speakers from other Universities, the graduation event included topics on employability skills, imposter syndrome and networking. The incoming cohort also had the opportunity to witness presentations by their predecessors, giving valuable insights into their upcoming journey.
Digital Bricks is excited to continue this work with the University of Glasgow, reaching a wide variety of staff and helping them to make the most of their potential in their current roles and beyond.
