Latest News | 7 July 2021
University toasts awards double
The University of Derby is celebrating after securing a double success in awards which recognise innovation and excellence.
The university has scooped two 2021 Blackboard Catalyst Awards – one for Optimising Student Experience and the other for Training & Professional Development.
The awards recognise and honour innovation and excellence in the Blackboard global community of practice, where millions of educators and learners work every day to redefine what is possible when leveraging technology.
The Optimising Student Experience award honours institutions whose educational and administrative innovations have markedly improved the total learner experience.
The University of Derby won the award for the creation of a central, online Virtual Induction, hosted in Blackboard, to welcome both new and returning students.
The induction was developed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Training & Professional Development award recognises those who use Blackboard programmes to support and enhance professional development within or outside of their organisation.
The university’s award entry demonstrated this through the delivery of an extensive academic staff development programme during summer 2020, to support colleagues to deliver a high-quality blended learning student experience.