The learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate their learning, and to broaden their knowledge and understanding of the subject. Further support is provided by the Library. Intellectual skills are developed through the programme by the methods and strategies outlined below. Analysis, problem solving and reflection skills are further developed through role-play, tutorials, simulation work and practice placement experiences. The programme utilises a variety of teaching and learning approaches that are designed to motivate and inspire students. These include, but are not exhaustive to; Lectures Seminars Tutorials Work based learning OCSE Practical The programme incorporates a blended learning approach where learning is facilitated through a range of teaching activities, and supplemented by access to information and out-of-class interaction via the University’s Virtual Learning Environment. Tutors exploit resources and techniques to encourage student engagement and interaction, for example through the use of electronic classroom voting systems, simulated learning, small group work and discussion. Practical skills are developed through the programme by a combination of experience in the practice setting, simulated practice sessions, skills practice, reflection sessions, seminar and scenario-based presentations, individual and small group tutorials, discussion groups, lectures, workshops, learning packages and computer assisted learning. Practical skills are assessed in practice placements by means of achievement of module learning outcomes for practice, contained in the Practice Assessment Documentation (PAD). This approach is complemented by the use of OSCEs and scenario based tasks and case studies. Practice simulation opportunities are also provided in the skills laboratories. Students on this degree apprenticeship programme will undertake their summative/Hub placements within their work environment, and formative/spoke placements will be undertaken in other areas that are not their place of employment. Testing the development of intellectual skills is managed through a combination of assessments that include examinations in the form of multiple choice questions and scenario based short answer questions, assessed in-course assessments in the form of reports, essay assignments, practice assessments, project work, reflective accounts and presentations. The programme assessment strategy utilises a wide range of assessment methods to ensure that students are able to demonstrate their skills and knowledge related the module learning outcomes. Each module contains both summative and formative assessment tasks to enable students to develop their skills and receive feedback throughout the module. Assessment activities reflect the professional culture and needs of the nursing profession. Hence there is a strong reliance on methods that relate to reflexivity, evidence-based practice and consideration of ‘real-life’ situations. Assessment tasks are varied and scheduled across the calendar year. Students are encouraged to regard assessments as a part of a dialogue between themselves and their tutors that will inform their academic development which will allow students to identify their own strategic learning needs. The Faculty is committed to enabling students to achieve their maximum potential by embedding inclusive and accessible assessments. Included within the teaching, learning and assessment strategy for all students is the inclusion of service users and carers. This is a critical aspect of the students journey and how they learn within the programme, both through students and service users and carers working together but also through the service users and carers informing the curriculum. There is a strong thread of simulated practice throughout the curriculum, and students will undertake a simulated placement and have skills and simulation embedded within all of their modules. This allows s