The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) measures the quality of teaching in higher education institutions in England. It measures this focusing on the student experience and student outcomes. The aim of the TEF is to improve and deliver excellence in these areas.Lancaster University has been awarded the highest possible score in the TEF- the gold rating - based on high-quality teaching, excellent teaching facilities and the good careers of Lancaster graduates.

Engagement with external organisations for teaching purposes can help to increase employability and thus benefit student outcomes. It can make teaching modules more relevant and stimulating. An understanding of external organisations and their real-world problems can inform the career choice of students.

Engagement to enhance teaching and learning can take place in different ways, here are some:

Problem Based Learning and Real-World Problems

What are the problems, concerns and issues facing external organisations?

Engagement with business and third sector organisations is important to identify these and integrate them into the learning experience.

Some organisations may be willing to engage directly with students, giving a talk for example or inviting the students to visit and see the situation for themselves.

Work Experience and Internships

Engagement with external organisations is vital to establishing these opportunities. They can enhance student employability and, in some cases, can lead to longer-term employment opportunities.

Read the FST internship case studies for more information.

Application of Skills into Real-World Contexts

A good example is the Lancaster University Law Clinic. This offers free legal advice to members of the public on a variety of legal issues. A member of the public or a community group can take their legal issue to an interview with a student advisor- a law student. They will take details of the case and then draft a letter of advice. All advice letters are supervised by a qualified solicitor with expertise in the applicable area of law.

The clinic provides a great opportunity for mutual benefit – the member of the public/community group is offered free legal advice, whilst the student can apply their knowledge to provide advice on legal issues impacting the public and community groups.