This session focused on using Lego within the postgraduate certificate programme on the learning and teaching module. Students on this used to keep a portfolio and discuss their journey but many found this reflection difficult and making their journey clear. The team decided that using Lego might be better but recognised that they also needed to use this in the module so people were used to this. Activities in the module therefore do give students a chance to use this medium for other activities and one of those we did in the session. We had to represent our self as a learner using Lego which produced some interesting discussion around colour, direction and control over learning.

On the programme the assessment still enables students to use the portfolio for their reflections but the summative assessment focuses around the use of a Lego model that students’ produce and a dialogue. On the assessment day students are all given a time to attend and they arrive before and build their model to represent their journey prior to meeting the panel. The panel then discuss the model with the student and this leads to other questions about their development. The panel can then discuss each performance and provide feedback that day to students.

There is a model around this type of learning which is focused around four C’s and includes:

• Connect – reflecting on experiences and learning
• Construct – constructing a model linked to this
• Contemplate – verbalising
• Continue – Reflection

Chrissi had undertaken a study with two cohorts about this assessment and most of the students have been positive about this approach and state “3D allows you to do more” and “you can build something that allows you to go off in other directions”.

The session also included a Skype call with one of the participants who was very keen on this approach and being able to develop a model.