Kiran\u2019s success with the 2023-24 module laid the foundation for her work this year when she took on a new module at short notice. She applied the same principles she used in her award-winning course\u2014prioritising structure, clarity, and accessibility\u2014and incorporated innovative tools like Padlet and emojis. These changes have had a powerful impact on student engagement, with the students in this new 2024-25 module providing glowing feedback. One student even described it as \u201cthe best module ever on NILE,\u201d noting how easy it was to navigate and access resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Innovative Use of Emojis and Padlet for Engagement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A standout feature of Kiran\u2019s teaching approach is her creative use of emojis to enhance course content. \u201cI used emojis to help break up the text and make the material feel a little more fun and approachable for students. It\u2019s a simple touch, but it got great feedback,\u201d Kiran explained. This added a layer of visual clarity that students enjoyed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition, Kiran made extensive use of Padlet, a collaborative tool that students used throughout the module to share ideas and engage with each other. \u201cPadlet really worked to get students engaging with each other. It\u2019s not just a tool for posting comments; it\u2019s a space where students can collaborate in real-time, share their thoughts, and build a sense of belonging,\u201d Kiran noted. Padlet\u2019s role in the module went beyond traditional discussion boards, encouraging real-time collaboration and making students feel more connected despite being in an online environment. This interactivity was a key factor in building student engagement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kiran plans to share her approach at an upcoming subject staff development day. She is eager to promote consistency across her programme, ensuring that students enjoy a seamless and cohesive learning experience throughout their three years of study. \u201cIt\u2019s about fostering a culture where we share what\u2019s working well, so that students benefit across the board,\u201d Kiran explained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Reflecting on her own experience, she encourages her colleagues to consider nominating themselves or each other for future NILE Ultra Course Awards. She credits her own nomination to a colleague\u2019s encouragement and is now keen to inspire others to recognise the impact of their own teaching practices. \u201cI wouldn\u2019t have even thought to put myself forward if a colleague hadn\u2019t mentioned the award. Now, I want to help others see the value in recognising their own achievements,\u201d Kiran added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kiran continues to apply her proven strategies to her new modules, maintaining her commitment to clear, structured design and student engagement. Her success demonstrates how thoughtful course development, and the use of innovative digital tools can greatly enhance the student experience. \u201cFor me, it\u2019s about making sure that the students have the best possible experience. If they\u2019re engaged and able to access the materials easily, they\u2019ll get more out of the course,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kiran\u2019s story serves as an inspiration to her colleagues at the University of Northampton, illustrating how collaboration, innovation, and sharing best practices can lead to great results. Congratulations again to Kiran Kaur for her NILE Ultra Course Award, and we look forward to seeing her continued success!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep an eye out in the new year for the 2025 Ultra Courses Awards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.northampton.ac.uk\/learntech\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/10\/Screenshot-2024-10-29-104820-1024x649.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSharing Best Practice and Building Consistency<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Looking Forward<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
NILE Ultra Course Awards 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n