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Innovative teaching approach contributes to better student satisfaction and retention rates at University of Suffolk

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The University of Suffolk has showcased its successful "Block and Blend" teaching format at an international conference in Melbourne, Australia.

Why it matters: The approach has improved student retention rates and satisfaction, benefiting those with jobs, parenting or caring commitments.

Dr Ellen Buck presenting to the IBILTA conference
Dr Ellen Buck presenting to the IBILTA conferenceUniversity of Suffolk

The big picture: Block and Blend allows students to focus on one module at a time, with assessments at the end of each module, rather than studying multiple modules simultaneously over a semester.

  • The format combines in-person teaching with online resources for greater flexibility.

  • It was piloted during the Covid-19 pandemic and has since been rolled out across the university.

By the numbers:

  • Since implementing Block and Blend, the student retention rate has increased from 88% to 95.1%.

  • Student satisfaction with teaching has risen from 81% to 87%, surpassing the national average of 85%.

What they're saying: Dr Ellen Buck, Director of Learning and Teaching at The University of Suffolk, called Block and Blend "a real success story for how our students learn," noting that it helps students "focus their learning and spread the assessments through the year."

Student feedback has also been positive:

  • "I like block a lot because it spreads things out it's a lot less stress you get to know your teachers a lot better, your class a lot better."

  • "...the great thing is you're immersing yourself in that subject matter for that time and it bonds you with peers"

Between the lines: The university carefully restructured course content rather than simply compressing existing 12-week modules into shorter blocks.

What's next: The University of Suffolk plans to continue refining and expanding its Block and Blend approach based on ongoing research and student feedback.

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Man charged after St Helen's Street assault leaves victim in hospital

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An argument in Ipswich town centre escalated into an assault that left one man in hospital on Tuesday. Police are now seeking dashcam footage as they build their case.

Why it matters: The incident occurred in a busy area of Ipswich's town centre, with police now seeking public assistance to gather additional evidence as they build their case.

The details: Keith McKenzie, 48, of Bond Street, has been charged with assault causing grievous bodily harm.

  • The assault took place at approximately 21:45 on Tuesday near the junction of St Helen's Street and Bond Street

  • A man in his 30s sustained arm injuries following an argument with an unknown assailant

  • The victim walked to Tavern Street to seek help before being taken to hospital

  • He has since been discharged

What's next: McKenzie appeared at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Thursday, 6 February and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, 6 March.

How to help: Detectives want to hear from anyone who was driving in the area between 21:35 and 21:50 on Tuesday with dashcam footage that might have captured the altercation.

The bottom line: Anyone with information should contact South CID at Suffolk Police, quoting reference 37/6562/25, via:

  • Website: suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

  • Phone: 101

  • Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (anonymously)

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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