Archived Resource: Responsive Blended Learning

The Responsive Blended Learning model is no longer in use at Heriot-Watt and has been replaced with Globally Connected Learning, however we recognise that the resources may still be of interest or use to colleagues therefore the full resources are provided here.

Responsive Blended Learning (RBL) combines active, supported online learning with contextually appropriate face-to-face learning opportunities, responding dynamically to the changing external context. This approach enables students to proceed with their studies alongside their peers, whatever pandemic-related restrictions are lifted or imposed in specific contexts.

RBL: Our principles

  • Prioritise the wellbeing of staff and students.
  • Support students to thrive as part of global learning communities.
  • Value our staff and their skills, knowledge and passion for their subject that underpins the HWU learning experience.
  • Build on our strengths as a global, multi-sited university.
  • Blend online and face-to-face learning in a way that is pedagogically appropriate and practically deliverable.
  • Ensure identical academic standards across learning contexts.
  • Maintain our commitment to Inspiring Learning.
Heriot-Watt Learning Commons

At the heart of the RBL approach is our Heriot-Watt global learning community, our students and our staff collaborating together to inspire learning.

Use the sections below to access a range of resources to support the delivery of and engagement with Responsive Blended Learning.

Alternatively, download the list of RBL resources for quick access to topics of interest to you.

This guide is an introduction to the Responsive Blended Learning approach adopted by Heriot-Watt University in response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the Introduction to Responsive Blended Learning guide.

This pack will help you to plan your courses for AY21-22 and navigate your way through the available RBL support resources. It includes:

The Introducing Responsive Blended Learning module is open to colleagues across Heriot-Watt University who will be teaching or supporting students through a Responsive Blended Learning approach.

It can be studied as a linear module, worked through from beginning to end. Alternatively you can dip in and engage with specific resources as and when you need them. Either way, we hope that you’ll find it useful for the transition to Responsive Blended Learning and in developing your practice more broadly.

Heriot-Watt staff (if logging in with their Heriot-Watt ID) can:

Over the summer the RBL team are facilitating a series of sessions are for staff who want to focus on a particular aspect of Responsive Blended Learning. The sessions provide a space to share and develop learning and teaching practice. The recordings of the sessions are available to Heriot-Watt staff via the links below (Heriot-Watt login required):

Our resources for students explain what Responsive Blended Learning will be like for students and also provide support to use the key tools needed to engage in Responsive Blended Learning during AY20/21.

Access the RBL guides for students and the RBL student induction guides 20/21.

the RBL quick guides

Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 02

Technology Enhanced Learning Glossary

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RBL Quick Guide | 03

‘Practice based activities: Labs, studios and fieldwork’ guide 

Read and download
Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 04

Fundamentals of effective online teaching practice 

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Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 05

Practice based activities: Guidance and Case Studies

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Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 06

RBL top tips for teaching in physically distanced contexts. 

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RBL Quick Guide | 07

Managing conduct in your virtual classroom

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RBL Quick Guide | 10

Teaching Simultaneously Online and On-campus

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Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 11

Top tips for Teaching Simultaneously Online and On-campus

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Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 12

Getting Started with Course and Assessment Design

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Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 13

Getting ready for AY21/22 assessment overview

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Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 14

AY21/22 Reviewing your course checklist

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Read and download
RBL Quick Guide | 15

Using ABC learning design at Heriot-Watt

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