Building a supportive learning and teaching culture for science academics

Authors

  • Mary Sarah-Jane Gregory Griffith University (Nathan)
  • Wendy Loughlin Griffith University
  • Jason Lodge Griffith University (Mt Gravatt)
  • Glenn Harrison Griffith University (Gold Coast)

Abstract

The introduction of the Bradley voucher system has resulted in many universities focussing on specific strategies to enhance student engagement and retention. This is particularly the case with undergraduate science programs where interest is already lower than other disciplines (Norton, A., 2012). In one strategy, our SaMnet team has been working to facilitate an active culture with all teaching staff (both continuing and sessional) involved in the learning journey of this particular student cohort. In the hard, pure world of science academia (Becher & Trowler, 2001) the pressures to produce high levels of quality scientific research actively compete with academic priorities towards issues around teaching and learning and student experience. Identifying and overcoming potential barriers to success (Buckley & Du Toit, 2010) and ensuring key elements of community of practice (CoP) development are addressed (Kimble, Hildreth, & Bourdon, 2008) are critical to the success of this strategy. Our SaMnet team has been guided by the knowledge and resources of both the SaMnet team leaders and our own dynamic group capabilities. We have been strategically identifying and developing information to support the implementation of a Second Year Student Experience CoP within a research-focussed science school. These include the “What’s In It For Me?” matrix to help facilitate this process.

Author Biographies

Mary Sarah-Jane Gregory, Griffith University (Nathan)

Associate Lecturer School of Biomolecular & Physical Sciences BPS 2nd Year Student Co-ordinator BPS T&L Seminar Series Co-ordinator

Wendy Loughlin, Griffith University

Dean Teaching and Learning Science, Environment, Engineering and Technology

Jason Lodge, Griffith University (Mt Gravatt)

Student Experience Coordinator Lecturer Griffith Institute for Higher Education

Glenn Harrison, Griffith University (Gold Coast)

Senior Lecturer School of Physio and Exercise Science Associate Member, Heart Foundation Research Centre

Downloads

Published

2012-08-24