UQ teaching elevates student experience

The awards, which recognise teaching programs that make outstanding contributions to student experiences, were announced during a ceremony at Custom’s House, kicking off UQ’s annual Teaching and Learning (T&L) Week.

School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science’s Dr Paul Vrbik received an Award for Teaching Excellence with his unique approach to teaching software coding, demonstrating problems in real-time while narrating his decision making.

Associate Professor Suzanna Fay from the School of Social Sciences was celebrated for her approach towards teaching criminological theory, using engaging storytelling to challenge her student’s perception of the world around them.

Dr Caroline Wilson-Barnao from UQ’s School of Communication and Arts was recognised for her work-integrated-learning approach towards teaching strategic communication, bringing industry professionals into the classroom to offer students an insight into the workforce.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Kris Ryan congratulated the winners for their outstanding contributions to teaching and learning at UQ.

“Dr Wilson-Barnao, Associate Professor Fay and Dr Vrbik embody our commitment to providing exceptional learning experiences,” Professor Ryan said.

“Their transformative approaches to teaching and dedication to student success exemplify the spirit of innovation, excellence and care that defines our students’ learning experience across the university and supports them to thrive.”

In addition to the Awards for Teaching Excellence, other UQ teaching staff were recognised in 5 additional categories.

Professor Ryan said this year’s T&L week workshops, seminars and events are framed around the theme of Elevate, highlighting UQ’s excellent teachers and tutors.

“This year’s theme focuses on 3 areas: student success, teachers and career development, and innovation,” he said.

“Teaching and Learning Week brings our community together to learn from one another and celebrate creative and innovative teaching and learning practices.

“Our spectacular academics will be exploring topics including academic leadership, AI and teaching, and assessment co-design.”

Full list of award recipients

UQ Awards for Teaching Excellence

• Associate Professor Suzanna Fay, School of Social Science

• Dr Paul Vrbik, School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

• Dr Caroline Wilson-Barnao, School of Languages and Cultures

Commendation for Teaching Excellence

• Dr Suraiya Abdul Hameed, School of Education

UQ Awards for Programs that Enhance Learning

• The Languages Employability Team: Professor Greg Hainge, Associate Professor Amy Hubbell, Dr Adriana Diaz, and Dr Angie Knaggs, School of Languages and Cultures

• The Private Practice and NDIS Learning Team: Associate Professor Roma Forbes, Dr Melanie Hoyle, Dr Katelyn Melvin, Associate Professor Anthony Angwin, Ms Rachel Scott, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.

Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Learning and/or Student Learning in the General Nomination Category

• Dr Stephanie Macmahon, School of Education

• Associate Professor Helen Marshall, School of Communication and Arts

Commendation for Outstanding Contributions to Learning and/or Student Learning in the General Nomination Category

• Dr Suresh Krishnasamy, School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability

• Associate Professor Steven Rynne, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences

• Associate Professor Joy Wolfram and Associate Professor Gilda Carvalho, School of Chemical Engineering, Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (Carvalho), Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (Wolfram)

Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Learning and/or Student Learning in the Tutor Nomination Category

• Benjamin Cai, School of Biomedical Sciences

• Nengzheng Shi, School of Political Science and International Studies

• Amy Templar, School of Social Science