Dr Eva Rubínová and Thomas Alexander from the School of Psychology recently completed the Principles of Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (PLTHE) course run by the University’s Centre for Academic Development. Eva teaches classes on L4 Investigative Interviewing (Forensic Psychology) and L2 Applications of Research in Individual Differences, in addition to research-based tutorials and undergraduate and postgraduate supervision. Thomas primarily teaches methods workshops for L1 and MSc students and provides drop-in support for L4 thesis students through the Peer Assisted Learning scheme.
The PLTHE covers both classic and contemporary pedagogical research and promotes best practices in teaching and assessment for all participants. A major component of the course revolves around critically reflecting on previous teaching practices and questioning how we as educators developed our own pedagogical philosophies.
Reflecting on the course, Eva found the session delivered by a colleague Dr Mirjam Brady-Van den Bos focused on large group teaching particularly encouraging in trying out in-class activities. “I was quite anxious about asking a large group of people to discuss a topic during a lecture. Following the session with Mirjam, I tried an ‘Ask your neighbour’ activity during my L2 class, and I got the buzz in the class as a response, which was exactly what this activity should do! And you don’t need to wait for the class to share what they learnt – the discussion is the purpose.”
Thomas found the sessions concerning neurodiversity and teaching within big and small groups especially useful. “Fostering an inclusive and accessible learning environment is something I am very passionate about – everyone has a great chance to flourish within academia if they are given an environment which allows them to thrive. As educators, we are given a great chance to create this environment for students, and it has always been a privilege to see how students develop over the course of my time teaching them. The School of Psychology has always created a nurturing environment for me, and I am glad that I now have the chance to create the same for new students.”
With the course completed, Eva and Thomas now hold Associate Fellowship status of Advance HE, an external organization which recognises teaching excellence within academics. They will continue to put their pedagogical knowledge and skills to good use within the classroom, and are passionate to see how their teaching styles continue to develop in the academic years to come!
