For the past nine years, DCU Student Support & Development (SS&D) has implemented a 'think online first' strategy in collaboration with university colleagues. This approach has resulted in the creation of sustainable, accessible, and timely DCU-specific transition and support resources, as well as short courses designed to enhance student success. These resources are housed within LOOP, our Moodle Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), enabling students to build digital confidence from the moment they accept their place at DCU. Additionally, it offers a repository of curated and trusted content that academic staff can readily integrate into their courses.

SS&D, with its team of subject matter experts, sought an additional team member possessing an expansive learning design skillset, up-to-date knowledge of emerging sector tools, and a flexible resourcing model to serve as a critical friend. Catalyst IT, recommended for their extensive experience in the Higher Ed sector and proven track record in consulting and supporting similar projects, was the ideal partner.

This paper outlines our co-innovation approach and details how our partnership with Catalyst has delivered robust, scalable, and engaging resources to our students.