A record number of five academics has been chosen from 27 candidates for the University of Queensland's 1997 Awards for Excellence in Teaching, worth $10,000 each.
They are senior lecturer Dr Stephanie Hanrahan (Psychology and Human Movement Studies), senior lecturer Dr Doune Macdonald (Human Movement Studies), lecturer Michael Pemberton (Mathematics), Associate Professor Jeffrey Pittam (English) and Associate Professor Lawrence Walsh (Dentistry).
Another five finalists received commendations this year - Dr John McLean (Psychology), Associate Professor Praga Pillay (Surgery), Dr Ted Steinberg (Mechanical Engineering), Dr Richard Sutton (Veterinary Science and Animal Production) and Dr Linda Worrall (Speech Pathology and Audiology).
The awards program, sponsored by the Alumni Association since it began in 1988 and supported by the University of Queensland Union, was the first such scheme to be introduced by an Australian University.
Dr Hanrahan is known for promoting active learning in large classes and for contributions to research and scholarship in teaching. Colleagues and students, in nominating her for the award, praised her commitment to encouraging student learning through innovative teaching and assessment.
Dr Macdonald's award recognises her commitment to innovation and excellence in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching; her enthusiasm; and her excellent knowledge of subject matter and teaching skills. She has published widely on research and development projects related to teaching and learning.
Mr Pemberton is known for using real life examples and experiences to illustrate complex concepts. He actively promotes and develops computer models and simulations using problem-based learned tasks, and varies assessment tasks to promote a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. His research and publications show a substantial commitment to the scholarship of teaching, and is a long-term contributor to community events such as Expo Uni and student and school forums.
Dr Pittam is recognised as a scholar, a researcher and a reflective practitioner. He teaches undergraduates and postgraduates with large and small classes, has been active in developing new subjects and curricula, and has consistently taken on the challenge of developing innovative methods of instruction, assessment and delivery.
Dr Walsh is well-regarded for his contribution to curriculum and staff development within the School of Dentistry, the University and the wider community. He has attracted numerous teaching grants to introduce innovative approaches to teaching dentistry, such as problem-based learning methods and computer-based teaching tools.
For more information contact Ms Linda Bird on telephone 07 3365 1975.
