Swansea University has recognised six of its teaching staff in its annual Distinguished Teaching Awards. The awards were presented during this year’s graduation week.
Distinguished Teaching Awards carry special significance as staff are nominated by their students for their outstanding teaching abilities.
The awards were presented by Swansea University Vice Chancellor, Professor Richard B Davies. Professor Davies said: “It is an important feature of Swansea University degree ceremonies that, while celebrating the success of our students, we find time to focus on some of the outstanding staff who have contributed to this success through the Distinguished Teaching Awards.
“We are justifiably proud of the high quality of student experience provided at Swansea and we find that staff, graduates and parents enjoy the opportunity to express their appreciation of the very best teaching.
“It is not easy to get a degree. A feature of all the awards is the appreciation by students of lecturers who are particularly effective in imparting the confidence and motivation to succeed.”
Dr Sarah Gamble, Reader from the Department of English was the first to receive an award on Monday 16 July during the ceremony for the College of Arts and Humanities. Dr Gamble was recognised in particular for her holistic approach to teaching and her attention to theory, practice and the demands of the professional world. Colleagues also attested to her innovation and pedagogical leadership.
Dr Tracey Rihll, who teaches within the Classics Department also received her award on Monday. Dr Rihll was described as ‘a model for other teachers in the University’. She was noted for her infectious enthusiasm, novel teaching and assessment practices and readiness to forge links to create interdisciplinary interest.
Ms Ruth Costigan, lecturer from the School of Law, received her award during the Ceremony for Business, Economics and Law on Tuesday 17 July. Students commented on Ms Costigan’s use of different media for learning and the element of fun she brings to teaching. It was also mentioned that her concern for her students and their learning was so notable it had become part of her professional identity.
Mrs Simone Bedford, Tutor in Adult Nursing, received a Distinguished Teaching Award on Wednesday 18 July during the ceremony for the College of Human and Health Sciences. Students commented on Mrs Bedford’s manner of teaching, assessment and support of progression. Colleagues also commented on the strength of her clinical expertise, and for providing outstanding professional practice.
Dr Adrian Luckman who lectures in the Department of Geography received his award on Friday 20 July during the ceremony for the College of Science. He was cited as having an effortless command of complicated material and an ability to convey that material through solid student engagement. It was also noted that his care to structure learning and guide the resulting learning through feedback was equalled by his concern for the pastoral care of his students.
Professor Jim Milton, lecturer in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) received his degree in absentia. Students commented on Professor Milton’s continuous care and support of their learning, and the fact that, though English was not their first language, they had little difficulty in acknowledging Professor Milton’s teaching methods. Professor Milton was also cited as being a leader in pedagogical practice by his colleagues.
For more on Swansea University’s Summer Degree and Award Congregations week (Monday, July 16 until Friday, July 20), including student success stories from the Academic Colleges and details of this year’s Honorary Awards and Distinguished Teaching Awards, visit www.swansea.ac.uk/graduation/.
