Vice-Chancellor and President's weekly column
The student learning experience
31 July 2010
Innovation underpins the quality of student learning experiences at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Our academics recognise that every student is an individual who is changing as quickly as the world changes. That means USC teaching staff use creativity as well as knowledge, skills and experience when preparing for each semester’s new intake.
Last week I talked about the six Australian Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC) citations received by USC staff in 2010. Who are these people behind the graduate success stories?
Sociology Lecturer Dr Phillip Ablett teaches students to be agents of change to improve our society. He brings social theory to life by encouraging them to analyse and critique traditions and the ideas of our world’s great thinkers.
Professor in Nursing Margaret McAllister has created an internationally-recognised learning model that develops high-level caring skills in postgraduates and undergraduates to make sure they’re ready for this demanding occupation. She addresses nursing educators around the world and her book ‘Solution Focused Nursing’ has sold in 24 countries.
Lecturer in Public Health Lily O'Hara inspires Honours students to find answers and take action on health issues to improve the wellbeing of individuals and communities. She is a great motivator, using equity, diversity and creativity to spark discussion and debate.
Senior Lecturer in Art and Design Dr Lisa Chandler works closely with first-year University students, helping them gain practical insights into this rapidly-evolving industry. She constantly revises her content to ensure it remains professionally-relevant and student-focused.
Lecturer in Digital Design Dr Debra Livingston has a flair for facilitating opportunities for final-year students so they get practical experience. She knows graphic design students who have integrated with industry are more likely to meet job demands upon graduation.
With food-related issues in the spotlight, USC’s Chair of Public Health Nutrition Professor Roger Hughes is leading the way in developing curricula and resources to meet changing workforce demands. He is nurturing highly skilled nutrition and dietetics graduates.
Congratulations to these staff members for combining the best of traditional tertiary methods with cutting edge teaching practices.
Professor Greg Hill is Vice-Chancellor and President Designate at the University of the Sunshine Coast.