A post on the Grad Cert of University Teaching 🧵
Every lecturer has to do their dues nowadays it seems. I heard that when staff were asked to get a Grad Cert to compliment their teaching it was contentious to say the least. For many of us the requirement is written into our contracts. Some PhDs are even getting the opportunity to attain one before they enter the academy as faculty for a head start.
I'm glad to be joining the cohort with @MelbCSHE as I know I'll be a better educator for it. I will be honest, submitting my expression of interest had me😱 but as I went through the application and I could see all of my achievements, it made me feel proud.
I did think though, was I capable enough? Could I meet Melbourne's standards? What can I bring to the cohort? How can I make a difference with this education?
But this is my chance to formalize all that I have learnt on the job as a lecturer under close mentorship and guidance from senior faculty leadership. It will help me take that next step in my career in my faculty.
When I applied they asked for five years lecturing experience. Well times goes in a flash once you've opened your office for the first time, to turning off the lights on your last intensive that saw you nominated for a teaching award that's for sure.
What I like about Melbourne isn't just its reputation. It's not the fact that the certificate is one of the best in the sector either. It's actually the chance to be with experienced educators and passionate academics that are at the forefront of innovation and excellence in higher education globally, not just locally here in Australia.
I also have fond memories during my MPhil of scuttling around Parkville campus as a tutor between subjects for the Jean Monnet Chair, and being involved with the Center's innovative projects as a Faculty of Arts representative. Not to mention delicious coffee and panini right around the corner, or some Don Don's over in Carlton.
When I was looking for a course to take to satisfy the requirements of an enduring lectureship in Australia I had a few choices.
There was Harvard Bok's online program. There were many Australian programs, but none quite like Melbourne's. With my links to the U.K. I was also aware of international compatibility like with
@AdvanceHE.
Melbourne ticks all the boxes for me. I know whatever I want to do, Melbourne will be there to support me to achieve.
I appreciate that they have a program that works with me, while I'm working. Melbourne's educational model and approach is well deserving of its reputation.
I'm really excited for the program. I'll have an opportunity to apply what we're learning from day one.
I'll also be working on a strategic project to drive real change and make an impact at my home university also.
I might even be able to get a publication out of it while we're on a roll.
Okay, semester is starting.
Let's go.
#gradcert #universityteaching #unimelb #australia #highereducation #university #lecturing