Developing and Enabling Educators: An Open Education and Pedagogy of Care Approach to Design and Deliver a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PgCAP): Contemporary Global Perspectives

Atenas, Javiera and Trowsdale, Jo (2025) Developing and Enabling Educators: An Open Education and Pedagogy of Care Approach to Design and Deliver a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PgCAP): Contemporary Global Perspectives. In: Innovations in Assessment, Student Experience and Professional Development in Higher Education. Emerald Publishing Limited, pp. 1-21. ISBN 978-1-83549-960-3

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Abstract

Abstract In this chapter, the authors present insights into the Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PgCAP) at the University of Suffolk, designed to support new academics with professional backgrounds and those in professional contracts working with students. The programme aligns with the UK Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF 2011) set by Advance Higher Education (HE), ensuring participants develop evidence-based, reflective and innovative teaching practices. Since its revalidation in 2021, the PgCAP has run five cohorts, embedding a pedagogy of care and open educational practices at its core. The structured, research-informed curriculum is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern HE. The three modules introduce educational theories, policies and curriculum design principles; develop participants’ critical reflection, peer collaboration and evidence-based teaching; and promote independent reflective research while fostering professional identities rooted in openness, care and creativity. Assessment is based primarily on reflective practices and the design of practical educational activities, encouraging participants to critically engage with academic practices and develop confidence in their teaching roles. Through guided, negotiated and independent learning, the programme enhances critical awareness, professional identity and innovative teaching methods. By integrating inclusive, student-centred and research-driven approaches, the PgCAP cultivates a community of practice, ensuring learning remains relevant, meaningful and impactful in HE. Currently, the course is undergoing revalidation to align with PSF 2023, prioritising deep engagement with critical reflection and evidence-based practices while streamlining content to ensure it remains practical, meaningful, and directly connected to the challenges of contemporary HE.

Item Type:	Book Section
Divisions:	School of Education > Early Childhood and Professional Studies
Depositing User:	Ms Hazel Barham
Date Deposited:	02 Mar 2026 14:32
Last Modified:	02 Mar 2026 14:32
URI:	https://newman.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/17398

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