10 August 2006
An Education Faculty lecturer who has successfully balanced research, teaching and a baby is one of six Monash staff who were this week awarded Carrick awards for their outstanding contributions to student learning.
Dr Susan Edwards, who returned to work in February after six months maternity leave, was nominated for the award for her designing and implementing teaching practices that encourage her students to think critically about their experiences as school pupils and relate this to their role as future teachers.
The Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Sue Willis, recounted some of Dr Edwards' recent achievements.
"In 2004 Susan completed her PhD and won the university's inaugural award for on-line teaching," Professor Willis said. "She was promoted to the position of lecturer in 2005. In the months before her son, Noah, was born last August, she published nine sole-authored and three joint-authored refereed research papers."
Dr Edwards thanked her husband, Luke Cosgriff, her mother and her faculty supervisor Dr Marilyn Fleer for their practical support since she returned to work. "No one does this on their own, and I have had tremendous support at home and at work with Monash's family-friendly policies and practices," Dr Edwards said.
The other Monash winners were:
Ms Nell Kimberley from the Department of Management for addressing student learning needs by developing faculty-wide transition programs and resources;
Dr Steven Langford from the School of Chemistry for engaging students through inspirational teaching, and displaying leadership in chemical science education;
Dr Ramesh Rajan from the Department of Physiology for stimulating and guiding students to become independent, reflective and critical learners by creating a high-quality, interactive learning environment for larger classes;
Dr Bronwyn Stocks from the Department of Theory of Art and Design for developing and delivering an innovative art history subject incorporating historic sites and original artworks; and
Dr Kok-Soo Teoh from the School of Engineering at Monash's Malaysia campusfor engaging students in active learning through industry-based projects and effective teaching approaches;
For more information contact Ms Robyn Anns, Media Communications, on +61 3 9905 9317 or 0417 568 781.
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