Designing for Thousands: Planning Extra-Large Modules with Purpose

When your module enrols 500+ students, clarity, consistency and creativity in design are essential. Here’s how to plan with confidence.

What happens when your module enrols a thousand students? At this scale, planning isn’t just a best practice – it’s survival. In this post, we share collective insights from educators who have led or contributed to extra-large modules at Exeter, including a UG3 module with over 500 students. Our aim? To help future convenors deliver fair, engaging and sustainable learning at scale.

1. Think Fairness First

When one module affects as many as 1 in 24 Exeter students, getting it right matters. A top priority is standardisation. Students must have equal access to core materials, teaching, and assessment opportunities – regardless of which seminar they attend or who marks their work. Inconsistencies can damage student trust, create bottlenecks in support, and lead to serious NSS consequences.

To help, develop a clear module map. This should show how all learning blocks fit together, reinforce key concepts, and provide a sense of continuity. Students often describe this structure as making them “feel safe.” Think of your module as a Netflix series: each episode (week) should build on the last, with a narrative thread that rewards attention and builds knowledge.

2. Be Strategic with Content

Don’t try to cover everything. Instead, focus on a core set of learning outcomes and provide “stretch” content for students who want more. A diverse cohort will include students with no background in the subject alongside those with deep prior knowledge. Catering to both can be achieved through layered content: a strong foundation for everyone, with optional pathways to dig deeper.

For asynchronous learning, variety is key. Mini-lectures (under 15 minutes), videos, podcasts, readings, and self-check Q&As can help students absorb content in ways that suit them. For in-person seminars, bring concepts to life with group-based activities, role plays, and applied scenarios.

3. Anticipate the Risks

Large-scale delivery increases the impact of any misstep. A single technical error or miscommunication can lead to hundreds of emails, reputational damage, or even assessment delays. Mitigation begins with foresight: anticipate where things could go wrong and plan contingencies.

·       Build in buffer time for material and marking preparation.

·       Pre-test platforms like ELE and Panopto to avoid tech issues.

·       Create staff-facing guides and student-facing FAQs before term begins.

·       Run planning meetings early and often with your teaching team.

When issues do arise, communicate transparently with students and staff. Clarity and empathy go a long way.

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