A Handbook for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education Enhancing academic and Practice

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Glossary
Activity theory Analysing activity (especially in the workplace) as a complex
phenomenon which is socially situated. May be used in relation to learning and
teaching (see also situated learning).
Adult learning theory A range of theories and constructs claimed to relate specifically
to how adults learn. Includes self-directed learning. Much of the work on reflection and
experiential learning is also part of this area. Concerns over validity of some of the
theories and that some aspects are not distinctively adult.
Affective domain One of the major areas of learning, the learning of values.
AIM (Alice Interactive Mathematics) ALICE stands for Active Learning In a Computer
Environment.
Aims (learning aims) At the top of the hierarchy of description commonly used to
define a learning experience. They are intended to provide the student, teacher and
other interested parties with an understanding of the most overarching general
statements regarding the intended consequences of a learning experience (see also
objectives, learning outcomes).
Amotivation Absence of tangible motivation.
Andragogy The theory of adult learning, associated with the work of Malcolm Knowles.
API Age Participation Index.
APL/AP(E) Accreditation of prior learning. Taking into account previous ‘certificated’
learning gained either as whole or part of a programme, towards all or part of a new
qualification. Also the counting of experience (experiential) towards obtaining a
qualification.
Appraisal (as used in higher education) A formal, regular, developmental process in
which the one being appraised is encouraged to review and reflect upon performance
in the workplace. Usually based on a focused interview with a peer, head of department
or line manager. At the interview, objectives (linked to strategic aims of the department)
are set and development needs identified. Performance against these objectives is
reviewed at the next appraisal interview.
Approaches to learning See deep, surface and strategic approaches to learning.
Approaches to studying inventory Adevice used to identify students approach to study.
Asperger’s Syndrome Severe and sustained impairment in social interaction, and the
development of restrictive repetitive patterns of behaviour.
Assessment Measurement of the achievement and progress of the learner (NB wider
definition in North America).
Assessment centre In relation to recruitment. After first-round interviews, in which
individuals are observed undertaking job-related exercises for the purpose of assessing
skills, competencies and personal attributes.
Audio-visual/audio-lingual methodology Structural methodologies in language
teaching developed in the 1950s and 1960s based on drilling, the formation of habit and
avoidance of error.
Audit Asystematic review of provision. Institutional audit is conducted by the Quality
Assurance Agency on a cyclical basis.
Autonomy (of student learning) Commonly refers to students taking more
responsibility for and control of themselves and their learning, including being less