Abstract
What constitutes the nature of academic work and excellence in teaching and learning are constantly debated at universities. The objective of this paper will be to trace how such debates have contributed to developing a common understanding on these matters at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. A key catalyst in this process has been critical debates, expert input and a position paper on the role of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). The way in which these debates have contributed to institutionalizing the role of SoTL to enhance teaching and learning will be described. For example, SoTL's role is included in NMMU's strategic plan and captured in teaching and learning excellence policies, reward systems, and academic career pathways; SoTL-related research outputs have increased; and collaborative SoTL projects have emerged focusing on enhancing student learning. Attendees will be challenged to reflect on SoTL as a catalyst for change at their universities.
Location
Room 1909
Recommended Citation
Foxcroft, Cheryl and Seymour, Bronwyn, "SoTL as Catalyst to Re-Envision the Nature of Academic Work" (2011). SoTL Commons Conference. 54.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/sotlcommons/SoTL/2011/54
SoTL as Catalyst to Re-Envision the Nature of Academic Work
Room 1909
What constitutes the nature of academic work and excellence in teaching and learning are constantly debated at universities. The objective of this paper will be to trace how such debates have contributed to developing a common understanding on these matters at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. A key catalyst in this process has been critical debates, expert input and a position paper on the role of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). The way in which these debates have contributed to institutionalizing the role of SoTL to enhance teaching and learning will be described. For example, SoTL's role is included in NMMU's strategic plan and captured in teaching and learning excellence policies, reward systems, and academic career pathways; SoTL-related research outputs have increased; and collaborative SoTL projects have emerged focusing on enhancing student learning. Attendees will be challenged to reflect on SoTL as a catalyst for change at their universities.
