Key Terms
Unit, a 15-credit unit of study within a course
Course, a full level, worth 120 credits, HNC, HND or degree final year
Programme, 2-3 courses packaged together
Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ), a type of higher education qualification designed to provide students with the practical skills and knowledge needed for specific technical occupations. These qualifications are typically at levels 4 and 5 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and are developed in collaboration with employers to ensure they meet industry standards
Higher National Certificate (HNC), a vocational qualification that provides practical skills and theoretical knowledge in a specific field. It is usually completed in one year full-time or two years part-time and is equivalent to the first year of a university degree (Level 4 on the RQF). HNCs are highly regarded by employers and can lead directly to employment or further study.
Higher National Diploma (HND), an advanced vocational qualification that builds on the HNC. It typically takes two years to complete full-time or longer part-time and is equivalent to the first two years of a university degree (Level 5 on the RQF). HNDs provide both practical skills and theoretical knowledge and can lead to employment or further study, such as progressing to a full degree
Degree, an academic qualification awarded by a university or college upon completion of a course of study. In the UK, undergraduate degrees typically take three to four years to complete full-time. They are categorised by levels:
- Bachelor's degrees are Level 6 on the RQF and include titles such as BA (Bachelor of Arts) and BSc (Bachelor of Science).
- Master's degrees are Level 7.
- Doctoral degrees (PhD) are Level 8.
Level 4 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) represents higher education qualifications that are equivalent to the first year of a university degree. Examples of Level 4 qualifications include Higher National Certificates (HNCs). These qualifications focus on developing practical and technical skills as well as theoretical knowledge
Level 5 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) includes qualifications that are equivalent to the second year of a university degree. Examples of Level 5 qualifications include Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) . These qualifications further develop the skills and knowledge gained at Level 4 and prepare students for employment or further academic study
Level 6 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) represents qualifications that are equivalent to a full bachelor's degree. Examples of Level 6 qualifications include Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees. These qualifications provide in-depth knowledge and expertise in a specific field and are essential for many professional careers and further academic study
Further Education (FE) refers to education after secondary school that is not part of higher education (i.e., not university level). It includes a range of qualifications such as HNCs, HNDs, A-levels, BTECs, NVQs, and Access to Higher Education Diplomas. FE is often provided by colleges and is designed to be accessible for adults returning to education
Higher Education (HE) encompasses all education beyond secondary school, typically provided by universities and colleges. This includes undergraduate degrees (such as bachelor's degrees), postgraduate degrees (such as master's and PhDs), and other qualifications like HTQs, HNCs, and HNDs
Student Loan Company (SLC), a government-funded organisation in the UK responsible for providing loans and grants to students in higher education. These loans can cover tuition fees, living costs, and other study-related expenses. Repayments start after the student has graduated and is earning above a certain income threshold. The SLC ensures that financial barriers are minimised, allowing more students to access higher education
Online Study refers to a mode of learning where courses are delivered entirely over the internet. Students access lectures, assignments, and resources through a virtual learning environment (VLE) or other online platforms, allowing them to study from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexible approach suits students who need to balance their studies with other commitments
Blended Study combines self-paced online and live online learning. Students attend some live classes in person and complete other coursework online. This approach provides the flexibility of online study while maintaining the benefits of direct interaction with instructors and peers during live online sessions
Face-to-Face Study is a traditional mode of education where students attend classes in person at a physical location, such as a university or college campus. This method allows for direct interaction with instructors and classmates, fostering a more engaging and interactive learning environment
Distance Learning is a mode of study where students and instructors are geographically separated. It relies on online resources, correspondence, and sometimes teleconferencing to deliver education. This method is ideal for students who cannot attend a physical campus due to location, work, or other commitments
Flexible Learning refers to educational programmes designed to accommodate the varied needs of students. This can include a mix of online, blended, and face-to-face learning, as well as flexible schedules and pacing. The goal is to provide learners with choices that fit their personal circumstances
Synchronous Learning occurs in real-time, with students and instructors participating in live sessions. This can happen either in person or online through video conferencing tools. Synchronous learning allows for immediate feedback, real-time discussions, and a structured schedule
Asynchronous Learning allows students to access course materials, lectures, and assignments at their own pace, without the need for real-time interaction. This method provides flexibility, enabling students to fit their studies around other commitments and to learn at times that suit them best
A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is an online platform used to deliver educational content and facilitate learning. It includes features such as discussion forums, quizzes, submission portals, and access to resources
A Learning Management System (LMS) is software that helps manage, deliver, and track educational courses and training programs. It provides tools for course administration, content delivery, and performance assessment
Self-Paced Learning allows students to progress through course material at their own speed. There are no set deadlines for completion, giving students the freedom to take more time on challenging topics and move quickly through familiar material
Interactive Learning involves engaging students through activities and discussions rather than passive listening. This can include group work, interactive simulations, and real-time feedback, fostering deeper understanding and retention of material
A Webinar is a seminar conducted over the internet. It allows participants to join live presentations, interact with the presenter through Q&A sessions, and access materials online
A Mature Student is typically defined as someone who is over the age of 21 when they start their undergraduate degree. Universities and colleges often provide additional support for mature students, recognising the different challenges they may face compared to younger students
Tutorial: A live group learning session on academic topics, led by a tutor. Each tutorial has set learning outcomes to achieve and a minimum amount of student-student interaction. Tutorials are key part of the week of studies and count as contact time as part of Guided Learning Hours (GLH). They are not optional. There is also space in the tutorial time for the tutor to address class-wide academic issues arising in the students’ online work.
Personal tutorials: A one-to-one meeting between a tutor and a student. These are optional and can be convened by a student looking to understand topics in greater depth or by a tutor, especially if they have concerns about a students’ learning, or concerns have been raised by an SSC. These meetings are usually held online but can be face-to-face if requested by the student.
Individual success coaching: This is a one-to-one meeting between a Student Success Coach (SSC) and a student. These can be convened by a student looking to access additional services. Alternatively, they can be convened by the SSC who has noticed data to suggest the student needs further support or has been prompted by a tutor to intervene. Accurate records must be kept of all interventions. These meetings are usually held online but can be face-to-face if requested by the student.
A Bursary is a financial award given to students based on need, which does not need to be repaid. Bursaries are often provided by universities, colleges, or other organisations to help cover living costs and other expenses associated with studying
Part-time Study allows students to spread their study over a longer period of time, usually because they have other commitments such as work or family. Part-time courses can often be taken during the evenings or weekends and provide flexibility for adult learners
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) is a process that recognises learning and skills gained from work experience, training, and previous education. It can be used to gain entry to a course or to obtain credits towards a qualification
Tutor, an academic who facilitates content focussed group sessions and provides academic support to students who need to catch up or be stretched. Tutors are experts in their fields and may change throughout the learning journey
Student Success Coach, a member of the student support team who is assigned to a set of students for the duration of their studies. They are responsible for monitoring data and providing non-academic support as appropriate, to notice signs of potential drop out and take action accordingly.