Lecturers who successfully completed the professional development programme ‘Foundations of University Teaching and Learning’ were presented with certificates by the Rector, Professor Alfred Vella, during a short ceremony held on 19th June. The course was held between September 2018 and June 2019.
During his speech, Professor Vella said that this professional development programme organised through the newly set up Office for Professional Academic Development (OPAD) was the culmination of his vision to establish an in-house unit that supports university teaching and learning.
Prof. Carmen Sammut, Pro-Rector for Student and Staff Affairs and Outreach, said that this year’s professional development programme was an essential leap forward for the academic community. She added that the course participants’ feedback will assist the facilitators to enhance future iterations of the programme.
Professor Vella and Professor Sammut commended the lecturers for their dedication and commitment to enhance their teaching. They also acknowledged the contribution of the facilitators and occasional lecturers to this year’s programme.
The programme ‘Foundations of University Teaching and Learning’ is aimed at lecturers in various career stages who wish to enhance their teaching practices. The programme provides early career academics with a solid foundation in the practical principles of teaching and learning at university level, and also enables experienced academics to further develop their teaching approaches. Some of the themes covered during the programme include understanding learning, understanding students’ needs, designing the study-unit, large group teaching, small group teaching, incorporating technologies in teaching, assessment and feedback, evaluating teaching, and supervising dissertations and projects.
The programme workshops are facilitated by Dr Glenn Cassar, Mr James Cilia, Dr Sandro Lanfranco and Dr Gillian Martin. Guest speakers are also invited to contribute to some sessions.