Validation Report BN306 - Institute of Technology Blanchardstown

Programme validation report
ITB
Section II
In evaluating this programme the following specific aspects have been
considered and are hereby reported upon:
Unity
The panel found that the programme design is consistent with HETAC’s policy on
Accumulation of Credits and Certification of Subjects, that it has an underlying
unifying theme with modules bonded by linkages being either implicit or explicit. It
was also clear to the panel how the standards of knowledge, skill and
competence evolve throughout the programme as a whole.
Teaching and learning
The panel discussed with staff of the Institute the various modes of interaction
practised with learners. Evidence of a clear dialogue was confirmed, enabling
learners to develop and have available to them the support of academic staff.
In a presentation given by the e-learning co-ordinator the panel learned that IT
Blanchardstown possesses a broad range of knowledge and expertise in the
area of learner support and course delivery technologies. A demonstration was
also given of ITB’s online classroom tool facilitating the delivery of online lectures
and meetings. The panel also heard how this will be the Institute’s first
programme aiming to deliver live lecture content to distance students using the
internet. The panel commended the interdepartmental co-operation, effort and
professionalism of the design team on this new initiative.
A tour of the facilities included a fully operational Manufacturing Technology
Workshop used for teaching and the demonstration of engineering production
techniques in addition to nine laboratory facilities dedicated to engineering
science and electronic and computer engineering elements of mechatronic
programmes.
BN306 Page - 7 - of 12 28 th April 2008