Understanding the impact of Applaud on learning and teaching at the Open University

Applaud is The Open University’s institutional scheme for Accrediting & Promoting Professional Learning & Academic Development. It is accredited by the Advance HE and it is offered fully online to OU staff in teaching and supporting learning roles. The scheme gives individuals the opportunity to gain external recognition as an Associate Fellow, Fellow or Senior Fellow of the HEA. This report explores the evaluation of the Applaud scheme, which took place from August 2020 to July 2021 through a scholarship project funded by the Praxis Scholarship and Innovation Centre. Findings of this project revealed that the scheme had a positive impact on learning and teaching across the institution based on most participants’ experiences. However, some participants faced some challenges and limited support to complete their application. Findings were used to make improvements on the current Applaud scheme.