network for excellence in
    mathematics and statistics support

Invitation to join the MS-MAPS project group

The sigma Network for Excellence in Mathematics and Statistics Support invites expressions of interest from experienced maths support practitioners to join our Professional Development Working Group MS-MAPS project.

 

What is MS-MAPS?

“Mathematics Support Mapped Against Professional Standards” is a proposed toolkit to allow people working in HE mathematics and statistics support to reflect upon their practice and align their work to the UK Professional Standards Framework. The UKPSF describes the areas of activity, knowledge and professional values of those who teach and support learning in higher education. Aligning activities with the UKPSF is necessary for applications for Higher Education Academy (HEA) professional recognition (Fellowship), whether independently or as part of an in-house CPD scheme. https://www.heacademy.ac.uk/resources/detail/ukpsf/UKPSF

Mathematics and statistics support staff are increasingly being encouraged to apply for HEA Fellowship, but often find it difficult to identify where the particular activities of maths and statistics support fit in with the UKPSF, and how to interpret the UKPSF within the context of maths support. The MS-MAPS toolkit will explicitly map the roles and activities of maths and statistics support against the UKPSF, and be an aid to those putting together their HEA Fellowship application.

 

Timescale for the MS-MAPS project

The sigma Network is seeking two members from the wider maths and statistics support community to join its Professional Development Working Group to develop MS-MAPS. We are supported in this endeavour by the Association for Learning Development in Higher Education (ALDinHE) who are kindly providing their own LD-MAPS toolkit as a model.

We intend to hold an online videoconference at the end of April 2017 to scope the task, meet in person for a writing day in early summer, pre-announce the project at the IMA Conference (10-12 July 2017) and launch the product in September 2017.

 

Becoming involved

We are seeking two additional members to join our existing working group of four. The desirable criteria are:

  • At least 3 years’ experience providing mathematics or statistics support in HE, preferably in a team leader role;
  • Fellowship (or Senior Fellowship, or Principal Fellowship) of the Higher Education Academy;
  • Understanding of the rationale of the UKPSF;
  • A collaborative team player, able to work to the timescale above;
  • Have the support of your institution to be part of this Working Group

There is no funding available to cover costs or expenses, but we offer the opportunity to engage with a national project that should have impact across the sector. Please send a simple email outlining how you meet the criteria and what you could contribute to the MS-MAPS project by 18th April 2017 to chair@sigma-network.ac.uk .

We look forward to hearing from you!