30 October 2006

The University of Queensland has recognised some of its most innovative, dedicated and exceptional teachers at its annual teaching awards tonight (Monday, October 30).

Held at Brisbane’s Customs House the UQ Teaching and Learning Excellence Awards recognised seven individual winners and two group winners (see list of winners, their citations and contact details below).

One of the innovative winners was Dr Victor Galea, a senior lecturer in Plant Pathology with the School of Agronomy and Horticulture based at Gatton, who has developed a highly interactive CD learning resource called “The Virtual Plant Pathology Lab” to help students understand and apply clinical processes to the diagnosis and management of plant diseases.

Dr Galea combines class and fieldwork with this technology to better prepare his students so that they not only enjoy their studies but develop appropriate professional skills.

Another outstanding winner was Dr Ian Tibbetts, a senior lecturer from the Centre for Marine Studies, whose passion and enthusiasm for the study of marine biology inspires and motivates his students.

Part of Dr Tibbetts work involves developing international study programs that allows non-science students from overseas to discover the marine organisms and ecosystems of Australia.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Michael Keniger said the award winners were a credit to the University.

“The University recognises the importance of excellent teaching and these awards demonstrate that UQ values the significant contribution our staff make to the education of our students,” Professor Keniger said.

“UQ is a significant player in the future of its students who must not only achieve to benefit themselves but contribute to the cultural and economic vibrancy of Australia.

“To many students their teachers are more than just the people who mark assignments, they awaken curiosity and inspire a commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and skills in their disciplines and professions.”

“I congratulate all the award winners as our students and the community are the beneficiaries of their desire to constantly improve our teaching and learning practices.”

Professor Keniger said the awards were designed to recognise, encourage and reward sustained excellence in teaching, in higher degree research supervision and excellence in the learning environment.

The winners are:

Awards for Excellence in Teaching ($10,000 each)

- Mrs Patricia Clarke, School of Veterinary Science (07 3365 8223), click here for citation.

- Dr Victor Galea, School of Agronomy and Horticulture (07 5460 1282), click here for citation.

- Dr Paul Mills, School of Veterinary Science (07 3365 2964), click here for citation.

- Dr Karen Moni, School of Education (07 3365 6872), click here for citation.

- Dr Ian Tibbetts, Centre for Marine Studies (07 3365 4380), click here for citation.

Awards for the Enhancement of Student Learning ($10,000 each)

- Supporting first year student learning through Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS)
School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences; School of Integrative Biology; School of Physical Sciences; School of Geography, Planning and Architecture (Dr Valda Miller 07 3365 2782), click here for citation.

- An integrated package of innovative rural education: enhancing student outcomes and increasing the medical workforce
Rural Clinical Division, Toowoomba, School of Medicine (Associate Professor Peter Baker 0417 567 671), click here for citation.

Awards for Excellence in Research Higher Degree Supervision ($10,000 each)

- Professor Max Lu, Director of ARC Centre for Functional Nanomaterials (07 3346 3828), click here for citation.

- Associate Professor Anne Goldizen, School of Integrative Biology (07 3365 4824), click here for citation.

The awards were established in 1988 and are funded by the University and The Alumni Association of The University of Queensland Inc.

To find out about more of the events taking place during Teaching and Learning Week by visiting http://www.uq.edu.au/teaching-learning/

Media inquiries: Andrew Dunne at UQ Communications (07 3365 2802 or 0433 364 181). For photos of the winners contact Diana Lilley (telephone 07 3365 2753, email d.lilley@uq.edu.au).