Top teachers transform learning experience

Top teachers transform learning experience

Three outstanding lecturers have won the RMIT Vietnam 2016 Excellence in Teaching Awards, presented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) and Vice-President of RMIT University, Professor Belinda Tynan, and RMIT Vietnam President Professor Gael McDonald.

Introducing the awards, RMIT Vietnam Vice-President (Academic) Professor Beverley Webster said that outstanding teachers are those who distinguish themselves through excellent and committed teaching practice.

“Each [award recipient] demonstrated through the rigor of the application process that they are able to provide evidence of the impact of that practice in the areas of student motivation and inspiration, innovative curriculum development, evaluation for continuous improvement and the enhancement of the student experience through leadership or scholarship,” she said.

Three outstanding lecturers, (from left) Greeni Maheshwari, Nguyen Anh Thu and Supanida Chantarin, have won the RMIT Vietnam 2016 Excellence in Teaching Awards. Three outstanding lecturers, (from left) Greeni Maheshwari, Nguyen Anh Thu and Supanida Chantarin, have won the RMIT Vietnam 2016 Excellence in Teaching Awards.

The first teaching award of the evening was presented to Supanida Chantarin, a Professional Communication lecturer from the Centre of Communication and Design.

Professor Webster commented that Supanida demonstrated success in designing courses that develop students to be ready for work and life.

“Her focus on developing students’ employability skills is evidenced in the simulation of agency structures for teamwork and the creation of a showcase for exhibiting student work which exposes them to the real-world experience of peer and industry critique,” she said.

Accepting the award, Supanida said that she believes students learn better when they are inspired, curious and passionate. She credited the application process for the opportunity to reflect on her teaching practice and on students’ learning experiences.

The second award was given to Greeni Maheshwari, a Quantitative Methods lecturer from the Centre of Commerce and Management.

Professor Webster said that Greeni engaged “students in their learning through a number of pedagogically sound methods, including variation in the ways students engage with concepts, an intentional approach to concept checking and feedback, and a highly developed approach to student-centred discourse.”

In her acceptance speech Greeni said that the award meant a lot to her, giving her a sense of achievement after eight years of teaching at RMIT Vietnam. She also appreciated the application process.

“The process helped me learn a few things including exploring my strength as a teacher, reflecting back on my teaching philosophy and how I transferred my knowledge to my students,” Greeni said.

Presenting the third award to Nguyen Anh Thu, a Marketing lecturer from the Centre of Commerce and Management, Professor Webster said: “Thu has employed her industry experience and connections to develop highly rewarding and effective learning experiences for her students.”

In her acceptance speech Thu thanked colleagues and family, and reminded the audience what the award is really about.

“This teaching award is not about teachers,” Thu said.

“It is about students and the recognition of their passion and engagement in learning for life and for a better world.”

Story: Hoang Ha

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