Introduction

The key national ‘quality’ focus for the design of new modules is the clear linking of the aims, intended learning outcomes and assessment methods. The purpose of the Module Descriptor is to describe and define clearly what the students are expected to learn, how they will learn it, how their learning will be assessed and how the criteria used to judge achievement are aligned to the intended learning outcomes. It should be clear how learning activities will enable students to develop knowledge, experience, transferable skills and subject specific skills. It should also be clear how each and of the intended learning outcomes will be assessed.

The Module Descriptor should be written to the student in student-friendly language and should give a genuine and inspiring picture of the learning experiences and outcomes planned. Use engaging text (which could in principle be copied into a student handbook) that will inspire students to choose your subject.