Heriot-Watt University Case Study

Designing a Cohort-Based Model to Enhance Online Learning Engagement

Project Summary

Heriot-Watt University engaged Learning Design Solutions (LDS) to explore potential enhancements to their existing online delivery model through Heriot-Watt Online (HWO). With a successful track record in fully online, anytime-anywhere learning, Heriot-Watt sought to explore the concept of a cohort-based delivery model. This new approach would introduce scheduled course start dates, structured class sizes, and interactive learning activities that foster peer engagement and provide tutor feedback.

The Challenge

While HWO’s flexible “study anytime” model had achieved impressive success, the university saw an opportunity to enrich the learning experience by testing a cohort-based structure. This model would shift from self-paced learning to a system where students begin courses together at set times during the year, engage in asynchronous peer activities, and receive targeted tutor feedback. Implementing this model would require a strategic approach to course design, enrolment planning, and student support.

LDS Solution

LDS’s lead education consultant, Andrew Doig, worked closely with Heriot-Watt University to develop a tailored solution, drawing on his extensive experience in cohort-based programme design across numerous universities. Andrew led an in-depth consultation, interviewing key Heriot-Watt colleagues to gain a thorough understanding of HWO’s existing model and identify the potential benefits and challenges of introducing cohort-based delivery.

With insights from this consultation, LDS provided Heriot-Watt with a series of tools and models to illustrate how a cohort-based approach could function effectively within a year-round framework. This included strategic planning for student recruitment, enrolment timelines, course progression, and structured completion schedules. Andrew also developed a detailed plan to guide course design for this new model, ensuring each programme would be equipped to support a collaborative and structured learning experience.

Success Highlights

The project laid a strong foundation for Heriot-Watt’s exploration of a cohort-based delivery model, giving them a clear path to implementing structured, interactive online learning. LDS’s support also extended to the initial course developments within this model, ensuring that HWO had effective strategies for creating an engaging cohort-based experience.

Andrew Doig, LDS’ lead education consultant said, “Working with Heriot-Watt Online was a fantastic experience, marked by a truly collaborative spirit. The team was open to exploring new approaches and actively engaged in reimagining their programme delivery model to better support student learning and engagement. Together, we designed a tailored, cohort-based framework that preserves the flexibility HWO is known for while introducing structured interaction and support for students. It’s been rewarding to see Heriot-Watt’s commitment to innovation and quality in online education, and we’re excited about the impact this model will have for their learners.”

Contact Us

Discover how Learning Design Solutions can help your institution explore and implement effective, innovative online delivery models to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Contact us on info@learningdesignsolutions.co.uk.