University of the Highlands and Islands

Applied Music BA Hons

This case study from the University of the Highlands and Islands explains the development of a highly networked and online Applied Music programme. Students based at campuses across the Highlands and Islands, and in and around Glasgow are taught using a mixture of face to face and online delivery. Key to creating a sense of belonging on this programme are face to face and virtual residencies in which students come together and collaborate on practical tasks.

Contributor: Anna-Wendy Stevenson


2. Design and delivery

The programme focuses on music practice and theory across a number of genres, with most modules involving a mixture of theoretical and practical content. Students also receive individual tuition in their chosen instrument. 

The programme employs a number of different delivery methods for different parts of its content: 

  • Music tuition sessions are delivered face to face by local experienced tutors. Where students are outwith the UHI area then local tutors are sourced by the programme leader 
  • Most modules have weekly synchronous video conferencing (VC) tutorial sessions
  • The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is used for delivery of content (this can range from readings, to videos to quizzes) 
  • There are four residencies per year for all students, which are either face to face (the whole programme cohort coming together in one location) or networked (students work with other students at their location, and also collaborate virtually using VC and other technology)

Assessments are also varied and include:

  • Essays submitted through the VLE
  • Portfolio based assessments
  • Compositions and recordings
  • Live performances
  • Reflective blogging