Murdoch University’s nursing and law educators have been recognised for innovation and commitment to social change in Australia’s most prestigious university teaching awards.
The group behind Murdoch’s Bachelor of Nursing e-portfolio were in Canberra today (Tuesday 26 February) to collect their innovation honour at the 2018 Australian Awards for University Teaching.
Associate Professor Mary-Anne Kenny, who specialises and practices in human rights, immigration and refugee law, also received a citation for motivating students to use the law for positive social change.
The nursing e-portfolio is a platform that prepares Murdoch graduates for professional practice in a complex, dynamic and adaptive system. It allows them to construct, explore and discuss real-world problems in the context of their individual levels of nursing knowledge and skills development.
The team behind the e-portfolio – Associate Professor Caroline Nilson, Dr Martin Hopkins, Prue Andrus, Helen Dugmore and Cormac Norton (pictured above) – won the Innovation in Curriculum Design and Pedagogy Practice category.
Professor Nilson said the award was richly-deserved.
“It recognises the hard work and commitment that the team have devoted to embedding e-portfolio learning across the whole of the Bachelor of Nursing course,” she said.
“E-portfolio learning allows students to own their learning, reflect on what they’ve learned and to set new goals for further knowledge development.
“This learning program gives Murdoch nurse graduates a real point of difference, particularly in a very competitive job market.”
Professor Kenny (pictured above) received a citation for her use of learning experiences that help students see that the law can be used as a tool to make positive change.
“Students are placed in authentic learning situations where they are actively immersed in activities while using problem-solving and critical thinking skills,” she said.
“For example, some of our Graduate Diploma Migration Law students work in a migration clinic in a community legal centre with real clients, under supervision by myself and other migration agents.
“My teaching strengthens their appreciation of what social justice is and how they can make a difference to those they encounter in their profession. This is a profound contribution, and motivates and inspires students to learn.
“This citation recognises the supportive and collaborative environment in the School of Law which has allowed us to deliver innovative teaching methods for our students.”
Murdoch University Vice Chancellor Eeva Leinonen congratulated the award recipients for their commitment to fresh thinking and real-life experience.
“Each of these wonderful teachers is inspiring transformation in our students, supporting them to reach for their full potential at university and beyond,” Professor Leinonen said.
The Australian Awards for University Teaching have existed for more than two decades and are run by Universities Australia.