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21 Feb 2008 16:10:28
Hi-tech business pods that are set to revolutionise the way in which business courses
are taught at degree level have been officially opened this week at the University of Bedfordshire, by Higher Education Minister, Bill Rammell MP.
Based at the University’s Luton campus, the £1.2m business pods have been introduced to reflect a modern working environment, rather than a traditional classroom. Each pod has a creativity area, internet zone and group working areas alongside a board room and coffee area to simulate an office environment.
This new approach to teaching and learning at the University’s Business School has been developed over a four year period by a team of academics and support staff.
Elizabeth Parkin is one of the staff members behind the concept. She told the
Minister: “The business pods take the University’s practical approach to teaching business even further. The School is the first in the UK to have such facilities.
“Students will gain excellent practical skills and learn all about the world of work whilst undertaking assignments. Students are treated as employees and are assessed on attendance, professionalism and creativity. They build up a range of knowledge and skills by working on real projects for real businesses.”
Following the opening, Mr Rammell said: “More employer engagement with higher education is vital if we are to develop the skills of our people to the fullest possible extent. The work-based approach to learning that I've seen at the University has exciting potential and I will be feeding back my thoughts to colleagues and employers alike.
"I regularly speak to businesses about the skills needed in the modern workforce and they flag up all the things I have seen in action at Bedfordshire - team work, problem solving and people with a 'can do' attitude. The skills and talents that students are developing here using the business pods will be highly sought-after by prospective employers."
During his visit, the Minister chatted to students currently studying business and marketing courses who explained how they work independently whilst being mentored by academics.
For more information about the business pods, call Elizabeth Parkin on 01582 485564, email elizabeth.parkin@beds.ac.uk
Latest news» 2008» February» Minister unveils new approach to teaching business at Beds
