PATS is an integrated quality enhancement process, executed as part of unit preparation and delivery, that provides a structured framework for academics to reinvigorate their units through collegial input, assistance and guidance.

The Scheme aims to inform and equip academics with skills and strategies to reinvigorate their units. It provides opportunities for teachers to share ideas; to discuss improvements and to develop future educational innovations. PATS brings together teachers and researchers with a common interest in building peer capacity to enhance learning and teaching.

A/Prof Angela Carbone outlines the PATS scheme.

Theoretical underpinning

• PATS applies the principles of Vygotsky's social cultural theory (1978) and Lave's situated learning theory (1988)
• PATS embeds Brookfield’s (1995) four lenses to engage teachers in a process of critical reflection to improve their practice. Each lens: self, student, peer and scholarly literature, provides a different perspective on one’s teaching.
• PATS features elements of mentoring by a colleague and peer assisted learning to develop and enhance learning after Gratch (1998); Boud (2001); Toping (2001); Arendale (2004) and Hall et al. (2005).