The report, by university think-tank million+, says that Bedfordshire is among several modern universities that are focusing on professional development and skills training to improve students’ prospects of gaining employment.
Changes to teaching in higher education will be an important part of delivering employability, stimulating economic growth and tackling unemployment in the long-term, the report Teaching That Matters adds.
Modern universities act as engines of social mobility and growth for the knowledge economy. The report highlights the Business Pods at the University of Bedfordshire as an example of teaching excellence.
The pods, opened in 2007, are more like modern office suites than traditional classrooms, with a variety of office spaces and breakout areas as well as meeting rooms.
University of Bedfordshire vice chancellor Professor Les Ebdon (pictured) said: “Teaching That Matters recognises the difference that good teaching can make to students and to their prospects in life. That was a key aim of the Business Pods and I am delighted they have been highlighted in this report.”
Student numbers using the Business Pods have more than doubled over the past five years, totalling some 2,000 business students since 2007. Most business-related courses at Bedfordshire use the Pods including accounting, marketing, human resources and public relations degrees.
Professor Ebdon said: “The Business Pods provide an innovative approach to teaching business, reflecting the excellent work my colleagues at the Bedfordshire Business School do. It is very gratifying to see they are respected as an example of best practice.”