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Find out how Scottish institutions manage collaborative activity with others.


An example of collaborative agreements and templates that have been developed by institutions to support partnership working.


University of Dundee


The University of Dundee developed a Quality Framework for Teaching Collaborations for both internal and external collaborations. This framework helps programme creators to develop high quality collaborations for the benefit of students. In addition this framework is supported by specific University policies on collaborative provision, for example, for joint, double/multiple or dual awards.

Examples of work undertaken by institutions to enhance student engagement and representation within collaborative programme delivery.


Student engagement - the quality of transnational and online distance learning

Publication date: 24 May 2016

Engaging and representing students studying at a distance

Publication date: 14 Jun 2016

Student representation for reps at a distance: Support, Community and Inclusion

Publication date: 26 May 2016

Examples of institutional quality arrangements developed to support the approval and review of provision.


Heriot-Watt University


Heriot Watt University has vast experience of collaborative activity. It has developed a University’s Approved Learning Partners (ALPs) review process. Read on to find out more in its case study. The University has considered its approach to the breadth of study options and locations it offers, resulting in the Multi-code guidance. In addition the University developed policies and procedures to support putting these arrangements in place.


Annual Monitoring and Review (AMR)

Publication date: 26 Jul 2016


Queen Margaret University


Queen Margaret University (QMU) developed an academic collaboration policy designed to focus the development of relevant partnerships within the UK and internationally. QMU provides guidance to partners in developing collaborative programmes in their  Collaborations Manual.


Annual monitoring report for programme delivery

Publication date: 24 Jun 2015

Module Coordinator Handbook 2014

Publication date: 14 Apr 2014

Developing International Academic Moderators

Publication date: 05 May 2015

For Students


A key factor of this project was how to build an effective learning environment for students studying through collaborative programmes or at a distance. Colleagues from across the Scottish sector have submitted case studies which outline their approaches and practice.


Building a learning community of music students

Publication date: 04 Aug 2016

Research and writing tele-collaborative student partnerships

Publication date: 04 Aug 2016

The Robert Gordon University (RGU) Associate Student Scheme

Publication date: 04 Aug 2016

Student representation for reps at a distance: Support, Community and Inclusion

Publication date: 26 May 2016

University of Strathclyde collaboration with Ohio State University

Publication date: 28 Jul 2016


For Staff


QAA hosted a series of webinars to help staff supporting students studying at a distance. These sessions provided colleagues with the opportunity to share their practical experiences.

  • Working together to embrace difference: academic staff development for collaborative partners
    Professor Roni Bamber, Director, Centre for Academic Practice and Bernie Quinn, Senior Lecturer with responsibility for International Partnerships, School of Business, Enterprise and Management, Queen Margaret University
  • Attend, engage, learn and build community: Talking Point online events
    Anne Campbell, Educational developer, Associate Lecturer Development and Support, The Open University
  • Autonomy and community in distance learning: case study of Edinburgh Law School’s ‘eLLM’ programmes
    Erin Jackson, Distance Learning Manager, Edinburgh Law School, University of Edinburgh
  • Supporting Students at University of Dundee regardless of Distance: New York to Newbigging the principles are the same
    Lynn Boyle, Programme Convenor BA Childhood Practice, School of Education Social Work and Community Education, University of Dundee