Holistic Postgraduate Learning: Evaluation of a UK-based Innovation

Abstract

Introduction:  The Open University’s School of Education has recently introduced a form of partnership teaching in postgraduate teacher education. This approach, which I piloted whilst Director of the short course component of our MA programme until late 1996, involves a more holistic and flexible approach to continuing professional development (CPD), working with partner providers and not just with the traditional Open University distance learning materials. We now offer accreditation of CPD undertaken face to face via other providers such as teacher advisers and experienced inservice training facilitators. We are beginning to look, across faculties, at the role of holistic CPD within other professions, and how the University might support it.