Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR)

What is the HEAR?

The HEAR will offer students, graduates, employers and higher education institutions a richer picture of student achievement, going beyond the transcript (of courses and grades). It will enable presentation of university-verified information about the course studied, including features which show the value of the qualification: such as placements and course-related awards (which aren't always part of grade calculations). It will also present verified information on university-related non-curricular activities which add to the student's lifelong learning and employability profile: for example, course representatives, volunteering, skills awards.

The HEAR will enable course designers to find opportunities to show how their courses provide value, and for students to show how they have taken advantage of those opportunities. Students will also be able to show how they have engaged with other learning opportunities offered by the University.

The HEAR is the national higher education sector initiative to record a wide range of student achievement, as recommended by the Burgess Group in its final report ‘Beyond the Honours Degree Classification’.

The University of Bedfordshire HEAR will have three aspects:

  • A “formative” HEAR - available online, which students can access throughout their studies, as a basis for reviewing progress and planning future activities, inside and outside the curriculum. (This might have content that is not released.)
  • A “provisional” HEAR - which students can use as an aide for applications before graduation, e.g. for sandwich placements and internships; permanent employment; further study or training opportunities .
  • A “final” HEAR - made available at the point of graduation from undergraduate or postgraduate study. The aim is that this will be available electronically, for a gradute to release to those they wish to see it. It might also be available in print format.

Additionally, the HEAR will be compliant with the European Diploma Supplement requirements, as set out through the European Union's Bologna Process.

External resources

Bedfordshire University

Course Design» Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR)

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