Unveiling the commonly adopted teaching methods, strategies, and tools in college-based Higher Education: insights from a Delphi study

This chapter considers the pedagogical approaches used within college-based higher education (CBHE) in England. While a rich literature exists concerning the teaching and learning approaches adopted in university-based higher education, teaching practice in CBHE has been largely under-researched. Using data from a three-round online Delphi panel study comprising 16 expert CBHE teachers, this chapter provides novel insights into teaching practice in this sector. The data generated through this innovative methodology is unique and transforms what we know about CBHE teaching in England, complementing the handful of previous studies in the area. The expert panel identified 76 teaching methods, strategies and tools before reaching a consensus agreement on 54 of these which they viewed to be commonly adopted pedagogical approaches in CBHE. The chapter offers a detailed exploration of the Delphi methodology before revealing practical conclusions pertaining to the commonly adopted pedagogical approaches. These insights can arguably also be transferred to the wider college-based education teaching contexts such as 14-19 provision, adult education, and apprenticeship delivery. Furthermore, the findings identify workforce gaps in knowledge which may serve as a catalyst for college-based professional development activities.