UWTSD Digital Strategy 2021-2023

Digital Connectivity

Digital technology is influencing almost every aspect of our lives, both personally and professionally. Without the underlying digital infrastructure that connects our computers, devices and online services, there can be no digital transformation. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for greater connectivity speeds and broadband access, and looking beyond COVID-19, we will be increasingly dependent on digital connectivity both on and off campus to facilitate home working and flexible learning for our learners.

Objective	How we intend to do it	University Priority
To provide excellent digital infrastructure to our staff and students, including on-campus internet connectivity and remote access to relevant services	Continued investment in the University network estate, ensuring reliable and secure networks across multiple campus locations. Review and invest in learning technologies and infrastructure across the university to ensure it supports the digital agenda. Continued investment in providing staff with the relevant hardware and software to undertake their roles effectively.	SP1 SP2
To ensure the digital infrastructure facilitates innovations in pedagogy and research across the university.	Investment in digital learning resources in order to support a sustainable blended learning model of curriculum delivery more effectively. Review and invest in learning technologies and infrastructure across the university to ensure it supports the digital agenda. Review our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and establish a governance model and developmental plan moving forward. Continued investment in providing staff with the relevant hardware and software to undertake their duties effectively. Ensure that digital services are scalable and factor in the International agenda as well. Review Institutional Research Repository and invest to ensure compliance for the next Research Excellence Framework (REF)	SP1 SP2
To provide a secure, resilient and robust digital infrastructure that supports all users	Continued investment in Information Security Systems to ensure the integrity of all our systems and data. Develop Cyber Security and Information Security Training Certificate courses, learning from existing models already in operation externally. Work with FE colleagues to ensure a consistent group approach to cyber security fundamentals	SP1
To continue investment plans to mitigate the heightened cyber security risks given the greater dependence on digital technologies	Improve access to resources and systems for staff and students, and develop an Access Anywhere / Single Sign On approach for all including Collaborative Partnerships (where licensing allows)  Continued investment in the University network and digital estate, ensuring reliable and secure networks across multiple campus locations. Review and invest in learning technologies and infrastructure across the university to ensure it supports the digital agenda. Review and implement digital infrastructure integration opportunities with FE Colleges to facilitate cross-campus working for both HE and FE staff. Ensure sustainability of systems and infrastructure, being mindful of technology obsolescence and aim to mitigate risks accordingly. Ensure that digital services are scalable and factor in the International agenda as well.	SP1 SP2
To enable all staff, regardless of their location of work, to access a digital workplace that is both flexible and inclusive.	Improve access to resources and systems for staff and students, and develop an Access Anywhere / Single Sign On approach for all including Collaborative Partnerships (where licensing allows)  Continued investment in providing staff with the relevant Hardware and Software to undertake their duties effectively. Ensure that digital services are scalable and factor in the International agenda as well.	SP1 SP2 SP4
To explore opportunities to drive innovation through digital connectivity, including internet of things (IoT) technologies and wireless networks	Working with Estates & Facilities colleagues, undertake research into current network data that can be used to drive innovation such as monitoring building usage and footfall. Identify opportunities to utilise current and future network designs to accommodate Internet of Things (IoT) functionality for monitoring, reporting and remote access to key building systems and functions.	SP1 SP3

Digital Productivity

Efficient processes, accurate data and fit for purpose systems are essential in striving for a digital university. Poorly designed business processes have a direct impact on the staff and student experience, and the efficiency and effectiveness of the University. Taking a holistic view of workflows, data, systems and people is vital.

Objective	How we intend to do it	University Priority
To empower the institution to critically reflect on current processes, procedures and workflows through a digital lens.	Procure and implement a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system Identify governance model for procurement of all new systems, to include clarity of ownership. Review all internal student and staff surveys through a digital lens. Digitise processes to enable more efficient work practices and reduce impact on staff.	SP1 SP2
To enable both professional services and academic colleagues to contribute as equal partners in the development of the digital landscape across the university.	Review the university’s multiple service management systems with a view to harmonise into one Enterprise Service Management tool (ESM). Digitise processes to enable more efficient work practices and reduce impact on staff.	SP1 SP2 SP4
To ensure the university has access to relevant business intelligence data to ensure effective data driven and evidence-based decision-making.	Enhance the quality, value and impact of data and information through implementing the Data & Business Intelligence strategy. Establishment of a Data Governance Group to oversee data within the institution Establish a Records Management function within the university to ensure all digital records are systematically and appropriately managed throughout their lifecycle.	SP1 SP2 SP3 SP4
To ensure there is a coherence between any physical developments and the relevant digital space requirements across our campuses, which will better reflect the digital requirements for staff and students.	Working with Estates & Facilities colleagues, review the university’s estate through a digital lens, and to plan all developments accordingly. Utilise JISC Digital Experience Surveys for staff and students to track progress and identify areas for improvement.	SP1 SP2
To ensure digital services delivered are provided bilingually where possible and that digital services serve to enhance the Welsh language. Where they are not, continue to work with 3rd parties on developing bilingual content and functionality.	Ensure that digital services consider the WG Welsh language legislative landscape as part of its digital strategic direction of travel To ensure the effectiveness of the university website and develop a governance model to ensure consistency of structure, design, branding and content. Plan more effective communication of the digital technologies, services, systems and hardware available to staff and students. Work with Microsoft to enhance current Welsh language provisions within their systems. Review our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and establish a governance model and developmental plan moving forward.	SP1 SP2 SP4

Digital Learning

Digital learning is seamless, this interconnectivity enables individuals to move flexibly across multiple learning spaces, be they personal, professional or organisational. Learning is therefore not limited or bound by the university. The university must be ready to engage with new ways of teaching and learning, as well as innovations in technology.

Objective	How we intend to do it	University Priority
To continue a high-quality student experience, ensuring that all students will have a consistent, personalised, seamless digital experience.	Review the university’s multiple service management systems with a view to harmonise into one Enterprise Service Management tool (ESM). Investment in digital learning resources in order to support a sustainable blended learning model of curriculum delivery more effectively.	SP1 SP2
To ensure inclusivity and accessibility are integral considerations in curriculum design / redesign	Continue to embed accessibility in software development and in the creation of learning resources, ensuring engagement of the user voice a part of this process.	SP1 SP2
To support colleagues as they continue to develop and deliver an increasingly digitally complex curriculum.	Investment in digital learning resources in order to support a sustainable blended learning model of curriculum delivery more effectively. Utilise JISC Digital Experience Surveys for staff and students to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Contribute so that the blended learning curriculum reflects the richness and diversity of our university community and the wider world. Ensure that partner institutions are fully considered as part of the university’s shift to a blended learning delivery model, aligning the pedagogical approach where possible. Work with FE colleagues to enhance both FE and HE digital learning outputs	SP1 SP2
To ensure the digital infrastructure supports and motivates shifts and innovations in pedagogy and ensures a consistent approach to the academic offer across the university as well as our collaborative partnerships across the region and beyond.	To develop a Collection Development Strategy which better supports a shift to a blended learning approach to curriculum delivery. Utilise JISC Digital Experience Surveys for staff and students to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Digitise processes to enable more efficient practices and reduce impact on staff. Review our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and establish a governance model and developmental plan moving forward. Review and recommend an institutional timetabling system that supports the blended learning mode of curriculum delivery.	SP1 SP2 SP3 SP4
To facilitate flexible learning delivery through both on-campus and hybrid blended learning, supporting the concept of a university without walls.	Review and invest in learning technologies and infrastructure across the university to ensure it supports the digital agenda. Review our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and establish a governance model and developmental plan moving forward. To develop a Collection Development Strategy which better supports a shift to a blended learning approach to curriculum delivery. Continue to embed accessibility in software development and in the creation of learning resources. Review and invest in learning technologies and infrastructure across the university to ensure it supports the digital agenda. Review our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and establish a governance model and developmental plan moving forward.	SP1 SP2
To support colleagues as they continue to develop and deliver an increasingly digitally complex curriculum.	Investment in digital learning resources in order to support a sustainable blended learning model of curriculum delivery more effectively. Utilise JISC Digital Experience Surveys for staff and students to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Contribute so that the blended learning curriculum reflects the richness and diversity of our university community and the wider world. Ensure that partner institutions are fully considered as part of the university’s shift to a blended learning delivery model, aligning the pedagogical approach where possible. Work with FE colleagues to enhance both FE and HE digital learning outputs	SP1 SP2
To ensure the digital infrastructure supports and motivates shifts and innovations in pedagogy and ensures a consistent approach to the academic offer across the university as well as our collaborative partnerships across the region and beyond.	To develop a Collection Development Strategy which better supports a shift to a blended learning approach to curriculum delivery. Utilise JISC Digital Experience Surveys for staff and students to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Digitise processes to enable more efficient practices and reduce impact on staff. Review our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and establish a governance model and developmental plan moving forward. Review and recommend an institutional timetabling system that supports the blended learning mode of curriculum delivery.	SP1 SP2 SP3 SP4
To facilitate flexible learning delivery through both on-campus and hybrid blended learning, supporting the concept of a university without walls.	Review and invest in learning technologies and infrastructure across the university to ensure it supports the digital agenda. Review our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and establish a governance model and developmental plan moving forward.	SP1 SP2
To ensure inclusivity and accessibility are integral considerations in curriculum design / redesign	Continue to embed accessibility in software development and in the creation of learning resources, ensuring engagement of the user voice a part of this process. Contribute so the blended learning curriculum reflects the richness and diversity of our university community and the wider world.	SP1 SP2
To establish where possible, research to remain in step with the changing digital preferences, expectations of prospective students and greater understanding on impact of different learning approaches	To develop and implement the JISC Learning Analytics Tool across the university. Utilise JISC Digital Experience Surveys for staff and students to track progress and identify areas for improvement	SP1 SP2 SP3
To ensure that digital learning content is provided bilingually	To ensure the effectiveness of the university website and develop a governance model to ensure consistency of structure, design, branding and content Plan more effective communication of the digital technologies, services, systems and hardware available to staff and students Ensure that digital services consider the WG Welsh language legislative landscape as part of its digital strategic direction of travel. Review our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) and establish a governance model and developmental plan moving forward	SP1 SP2 SP4

Digital Inclusion

To equip and support all of our community to develop their skills and confidence based on their needs regardless of their background and situation. To also support our community as it addresses fundamental issues of equality, diversity and inclusion.

Objective	How we intend to do it	University Priority
To ensure all staff and students can contribute and benefit from the university’s digital transformation.	Improve access to resources and systems for staff and students, and develop an Access Anywhere / Single Sign On approach for all including Collaborative Partnerships (where licensing allows)  Identify and develop digital practices that impact positively on staff and student wellbeing. Digitise processes to enable more efficient practices and reduce impact on staff.	SP1
To empower all staff and students to challenge marginalisation and social exclusion by engaging fully in digital opportunities.	Identify and develop digital practices that impact positively on staff and student wellbeing. Contribute to ensure the blended learning curriculum reflects the richness and diversity of our university community and the wider world.	SP1 SP4
To increase the participation rate of the socially excluded by developing digital collaboration and communication tools, ensuring we are a digitally supportive university.	Continue to embed accessibility in software development and in the creation of learning resources, ensuring engagement with our community as part of this process.	SP1
To support an inclusive and diverse digital model of curriculum and assessment practices across the university.	Identify and develop digital practices that impact positively on staff and student wellbeing Contribute to ensure the blended learning curriculum reflects the richness and diversity of our university community and the wider world.	SP1 SP2
To facilitate a range of university communication tools to support all our existing and prospective learners.	To ensure the effectiveness of the university website and develop a governance model to ensure consistency of structure, design, branding and content. Plan more effective communication of the digital technologies, services, systems and hardware available to staff and students Review and recommend an institutional timetabling system that supports the blended learning mode of curriculum delivery.	SP1 SP2 SP4
To prioritise user experience and the student voice as it relates to the digital and physical environment.	Review and invest in learning technologies and infrastructure across the university to ensure it supports the digital agenda. Plan more effective communication of the digital technologies, services, systems and hardware available to staff and students	SP1 SP2
To ensure an equitable level of digital provision for staff and students regardless of location, supporting on and off campus working and learning.	Identify and develop digital practices that impact positively on staff and student wellbeing	SP1
To continue to provide additional funding or means to reduce digital poverty as a barrier to students accessing higher education.	Ensure support to continue the current Digital Bursary support for students, to provide devices and financial support around digital connectivity off campus Undertake research to understand better the levels of digital poverty amongst both Students and Staff.	SP1
To increase the participation levels of women in technology, and related disciplines in UWTSD.	To support the funding of CPD opportunities for UWTSD women in tech (students and staff), engaging with external organisations to do this. To liaise with the UWTSD staff and student Women’s Networks as a point of expertise and skills in supporting and developing women and those who identify as women. To work with Women In Tech to deliver developmental opportunities to current UWTSD students.	SP1 SP2

Digital Capabilities

In order to make the most of opportunities afforded by technology, staff and students need an understanding of how digital technology can be useful. How an individual adopts new technology and improves their digital fluency can be based on four elements; knowledge, skills, attitude, and behaviours. Investment in developing these elements is vital.

Objective	How we intend to do it	University Priority
To empower university leaders, staff and students to make the most of the digital tools available to them.	Develop a digital skills centre supporting academic and professional departments, to share good practice, and encourage a learning culture approach to professional development. Develop a Digital Resources knowledgebase that provides a central hub for access to supporting resources, for example the Digital Skills Framework. Embed digital skills requirement as part of the university’s recruitment processes, as well as staff induction and performance review practices Ensure provision for specialist systems training is planned for and delivered Develop the Digital Skills Framework and promote the benefits Embed digital skills into induction and ongoing CPD for postgraduate researchers. Work with FE colleagues to share best practice and resources for building digital capabilities	SP1 SP2
To build the confidence of staff to enable and facilitate digital innovation across the university.	Develop a digital skills centre supporting academic and professional departments, to share good practice, and encourage a learning culture approach to professional development. Develop a Digital Resources knowledgebase that provides a central hub for access to supporting resources, for example the Digital Skills Framework. Ensure provision for specialist systems training is planned for and delivered. Embed digital skills development within the curriculum as part of the Graduate Attributes agenda. Embed digital skills into induction and ongoing CPD for postgraduate researchers.	SP1 SP2
To ensure staff and students are aware of cyber security threats and the risk they pose	Develop the Digital Skills Framework and promote the benefits of the Jisc Discovery Tool, Role Profiles, Structured Learning and institutional digital resources. Continued development of test phishing email processes and subsequent training. Maintain and develop standards to continue to meet the Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation.	SP2
To support all students, regardless of their location to ensure they reach their full potential and equip them as they move on to support communication, collaboration and creativity.	Develop the Digital Skills Framework and promote the benefits of the Jisc Discovery Tool, Role Profiles, Structured Learning and institutional digital resources Embed digital skills into induction and ongoing CPD for postgraduate researchers.	SP1 SP2
To empower all staff to own their individual learning and development	Develop the Digital Skills Framework and promote the benefits of the Jisc Discovery Tool, Role Profiles, Structured Learning and institutional digital resources Working with HR colleagues, identify opportunities for self-directed development and continue to promote these opportunities to staff Undertake a review with HR to identify a dedicated professional development time during a normal week for staff and students	SP2 SP4
To encourage the university to recognise staff learning and development as a core function of their role by ensuring a framework is in place to facilitate self-directed professional development across all staff within the university.	Develop the Digital Skills Framework and promote the benefits of the Jisc Discovery Tool, Role Profiles, Structured Learning and institutional digital resources Working with HR colleagues, identify opportunities for self-directed development and continue to promote these opportunities to staff Undertake a review with HR to identify a dedicated professional development time during a normal week for staff and students	SP2 SP4
To ensure our professional development plans include digital training, peer support mechanisms and reward and recognition incentives to encourage upskilling	Develop the Digital Skills Framework and promote the benefits of the Jisc Discovery Tool, Role Profiles, Structured Learning and institutional digital resources Working with HR colleagues, identify opportunities for self-directed development and continue to promote these opportunities to staff Embed digital skills into induction and ongoing CPD for postgraduate researchers.	SP1 SP2 SP4
To enable staff to utilise the full range of digital infrastructures as part of their function, role and future development by becoming more digitally aware	Develop the Digital Skills Framework and promote the benefits of the Jisc Discovery Tool, Role Profiles, Structured Learning and institutional digital resources. Working with HR colleagues, identify opportunities for self-directed development and continue to promote these opportunities to staff. Ensure provision for specialist systems training is planned and delivered.	SP1 SP2

Digital Innovation

Digital innovation will be key to identifying, understanding and enabling the creative ideas and collaboration opportunities available to the university from internal and external sources to help deliver differentiated digital services, build external partnerships and develop viable commercial opportunities.

Objective	How we intend to do it	University Priority
To research new and emerging digital technologies and assess the potential of implementing these within UWTSD, including but not limited to immersive technologies (Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the latest digital technologies	Further enhance current AI developments to enhance student experience as well as staff support. Implement a UWTSD digital assistant for students as part of an AI development project. Undertake research on new approaches to delivering digital solutions using technology and make recommendations on direction of travel and enhancements.	SP1 SP2 SP3 SP4
To build the confidence of staff to enable and facilitate digital innovation across the university.	Undertake research on new approaches to delivering digital solutions using technology and make recommendations on direction of travel and enhancements. Working with RIES colleagues, utilise digital expertise within the institution to build external relationships, support commercial opportunities and bid for research and grant funding.	SP3 SP4
To research, incubate and experiment with new digital innovation opportunities to enhance university solutions, drive partnership opportunities and recruitment.	Undertake research on new approaches to delivering digital solutions using technology and make recommendations on direction of travel and enhancements.	SP1 SP2 SP3 SP4
To look to build external digital commercial partnerships and build strong relationships with technology vendors in order to develop digital innovation	Identify potential partners and 3rd party providers that can work with the University to enhance its use of digital services and learning technologies. Working with RIES colleagues, utilise digital expertise within the institution to build external relationships, support commercial opportunities and bid for research and grant funding. Explore opportunities to work further with Schools to provide innovative bilingual digital learning opportunities and services across Wales.	SP2 SP3 SP4

Teaching and Learning	Develop engagement on digital teaching and learning through shared best practice and FE/HE approaches.
Digital Skills	Work closely on a consistent approach to digital skills development for both FE and HE.
Cyber Security	Develop engagement on Cyber Security approaches to support Digital Transformation.
Systems Integration	Review opportunities to align and integrate core IT Systems to facilitate future working approaches such as shared campus facilities.
Building a Digital Group Community	Underpin the approaches above by building a digital UWTSD group community to enhance engagement on digital transformation.

UWTSD
Digital Strategy

"People by default, technology by design"

Our Journey and purpose

Our Journey

Our purpose

How we developed this strategy

How we will monitor and review the strategy

UWTSD Group Impact

Objectives and action plan

University Strategic Priorities

Digital Strategy Objectives

Definitions and Terms

References