Innovative co-evaluation and co-creation of an online learning programme with de Bono's Six Thinking Hats

Abstract

In order to enhance diversity, internationalisation and widening participation, Queen Margaret University's PgCert in Professional and Higher Education was redesigned for online delivery in 2015-16. This programme has run successfully in a blended learning format for over a decade and this change was anticipated to be a major transition for both staff and students. In order to maximise student engagement in the online environment we involved students in the redesign of the programme and evaluation during and after the first year of delivery. This included a video record of the application of de Bono's (1989) 'Six thinking hats' in facilitating staff reflections, an online survey designed and run by two students representatives and a final collaborative thematic analysis of data with staff and students. We focus on student and staff experiences and perspectives on transitioning to the online environment and reflect on the student-engaged design and innovative evaluation method used.