The Maths, Stats & OR Network Current Perspective Michael Grove Network Manager April 2005

Previously…. Learning and Teaching Support Network (LTSN) –Generic Centre –Subject Centres Institute for Learning & Teaching in Higher Education (ILTHE) FDTL National Co-ordination Team (NCT)

The Subject Centre Review Subject Centre Review recommended Subject Centres should be a core part of the Academy over next strategic planning period. Funding in place until August 2009, with possible extension until Subject focus will remain with Subject Centres. Increased collaboration with other Subject Centres. Subject Centres should reflect the specificities of their discipline basis.

The Subject Centre Review Subject Centres to work collaboratively with Registration & Accreditation functions of Academy. Subject Centres should make a contribution to accredited programmes for new staff but within the ‘constraints’ of their disciplines. Focus of Subject Centre activities should move towards engaging with departments. Continue to undertake thematic activities.

The Subject Centre Review Subject Centres should further develop pedagogic research capacity by disseminating existing research and commissioning new research. Subject Centres should contribute to policy making in the areas of teaching & learning within Higher Education. Subject Centres Should seek to disseminate and collaborate internationally.

Network Aims (Provisional) 1.To enhance the student learning experience; 2.To encourage and disseminate good practice; 3.To provide initial and continuing professional development for all staff; 4.To be a focus for unity in the community of Maths, Stats & OR; 5.To be an active participant in national and international initiatives offering strategic policy advice on Mathematics education; 6.To run an efficient and effective Maths, Stats & OR Network as part of the Higher Education Academy.

Current Areas of Activity Computer Assisted Assessment: STACK & Monthly CAA Series E-learning: Interactive STEPs Glossary, R and Java Project Transition to University: Expanding range of Facts & Formulae Leaflets Staff Development: Induction Course, Development of Mathematics CPD/IPD Activities & mini-project at Warwick

Current Areas of Activity Study-skills for students (mini-project) Diagnosing students with dyscalculia (mini-project) Employability: Employee profiles and Subject Specific Careers materials. Interdisciplinarity: Supporting Mathematics teaching within other disciplines Developing links between HEIs and local schools: MSOR/HoDOMS Working Party

Future Areas of Activity Interaction with the National Centre Annual conference: From 2006 Advanced courses for Postgraduate Students Increased engagement with research intensive HEIs Mechanics activities Increased OR Activity Entrepreneurship Education for Sustainable Development

Current Challenges Loss of the LTSN ‘brand’ Attendance at Network Events Maintaining Community Engagement