21st century teaching takes the stage at free public Showcase

Novel teaching methods designed to produce successful graduate outcomes will be under the spotlight at a free public Teaching and Learning Excellence Showcase at the University of Queensland on November 13.

The event, part of UQ Teaching and Learning Week 2003, will focus on undergraduate teaching initiatives in engineering and science as examples of the talents behind the University’s international reputation for high-achieving graduates.

The Showcase runs from 5.30-7pm, Thursday, November 13 in the Auditorium, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, St Lucia campus, and includes refreshments. Entry is free and parking is available, but bookings are essential by Tuesday, November 11 (telephone 07 3365 7045, email e.kerr@uq.edu.au).

Two Showcase presentations will demonstrate ultra-modern techniques for imparting in-depth knowledge and specific graduate attributes — and include tips on how high schools, students and parents can prepare for university study.

Caroline Crosthwaite, Faculty of Engineering, Physical Sciences and Architecture (EPSA), will showcase the project-centred approach used to enhance teaching and learning in chemical and environmental engineering. Students take on realistic projects (often sourced from industry) and work in teams to develop communication and project management skills as well as technical engineering knowledge.

A teaching team from the Faculty of Biological and Chemical Sciences (BACS) will showcase strategies for developing excitement and a love of science in first-year biological science students. The strategies include new ways of mentoring at-risk students, advanced study programs for exceptional students, innovative learning guides and novel uses for computing facilities.

UQ teaching gets results. The University has scored the greatest number of finalists and winners at the Australian Awards for University Teaching since the scheme began in 1997. And it was the first university in Australia to reward its staff with teaching excellence awards for individuals, teams, and research higher degree supervision.

Graduates have achieved full-time employment rates averaging 88 percent over the past five years, with above-average starting salaries.

The University’s alumni also include many of the country’s highest achievers. They range from Queensland Governor Quentin Bryce, Queensland Premier Peter Beattie and Nobel Laureate Professor Peter Doherty to this year’s Telstra Queensland business award winners Lynne Saint (Business Woman of the Year) and Sara Seckold (Young Business Woman of the Year).

Media: for more information, contact
• Mrs Caroline Crosthwaite, EPSA (telephone 3365 4264, email carolc@cheque.uq.edu.au),
• Associate Professor Susan Hamilton, BACS (telephone 3365 4611, email susan.hamilton@uq.edu.au); or
• Moya Pennell, UQ Communications (telephone 3365 2846, email m.pennell@uq.edu.au).