Introduction to the ReFORM Project

The repurposing and reuse of learning objects is of particular interest to the JISC (Joint Information Systems Committee). Edge Hill University’s ReFORM project is one of 19 funded projects, focussing upon the (re)development of a module to incorporate Reusable Learning Objects (50% externally sourced and 25% internally sourced).

Our ReFORM project aims to redevelop an existing Professional Development 10 week, 15 credit, level 6 module, CPD304: Dyslexia and Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) in Higher Education – Support Issues. The revamped module, which will be included in the Faculty’s extensive traditional and virtual marketing and recruitment campaigns, is part of a suite of modules leading to the Edge Hill award of the Certificate of Professional development in Inclusive Learning Support in HE (Dyslexia).

Edge Hill’s commitment to widening participation and inclusion has, over the last decade, seen a year on year increase in the numbers of students presenting with Dyslexia and other SpLDs. With Dyslexic students forming the largest proportion of all students with disabilities in Higher Education (HE), there is a constantly growing need for appropriate learning support
This module has the potential to engage with a wide range of stakeholder groups and address the shortage of dedicated training in this field. Although principally aimed at support staff working within the Higher and Further Education sectors it also has relevance to classroom teachers, teaching assistants and school administrators. To this end, it fulfils some of the key principles behind the Leitch Review to provide highly skilled workforces with development opportunities, and fully aligns with the QAA’s position on systematic enhancement of the quality of the student experience.

It will involve the repurposing of objects (drawn from Jorum and other credible sector sources) related to themes which are germane to learning support, such as writing, reading and memory, and (providing materials to bridge a current gap) the generation of new multimedia objects which focus on learners’ narratives relating to such themes.

The project complements the University’s mission to provide a ‘high quality inclusive learning experience’ and is in full alignment with key objectives in its Learning and Teaching Strategy which focus on staff development, student support and the potential offered by new technologies.

Details of the module can be found from this marketing leaflet.