• What do you think students look for in a teacher?
I don’t know that I have the correct formula for being a good teacher but what we try to provide is an environment that is conducive to good teaching practices. We try to be open and inclusive and to listen to the students wants and needs. While we may not be entirely successful every time I think students appreciate our efforts. I am also fortunate enough at the Art School Library to be able to offer small group training sessions which means I can give individual attention to students. This is rewarding for me as a trainer and I think that it is the approach most suited to students of the Art School.
• What does this award mean to you?
I believe this year was the first that Teaching Merit Certificates have been awarded to general staff members so I feel honored to be one of the first, along with another general staff member at the School of Art, Phillip Blacklow to have received the award. I also think that the award is an acknowledgment of the growing role the library is playing in its involvement in the delivery of information literacy training to our students.
• How do students go about nominating teachers for this award?
The Teaching Merit Certificate scheme, like the Teaching Excellence Award scheme, recognises teaching members of staff who are judged by peers and students as being highly proficient and competent teachers. There are two categories of Certificates; Individual and Team (or Unit-based). Nominations must be made by Heads of Schools, peers, and students. Nominations should be made on a copy of the official nomination
Want to nominate a teacher? Further Information:
http://www.utas.edu.au/pvctl/awardsgrants/awards/utas/merit_certificates.htm
