Two Cardiff academics have been recognised for their outstanding teaching with a prestigious national award.
Dr Charlotte Brookfield of the School of Social Sciences and Dr Hannah Shaw of the School of Biosciences have both been awarded a National Teaching Fellowship by Advance HE – the highest award in the sector.
Given each year, the Fellowships are awarded to a small number of academics who have made an outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession in the UK.
'Shattering preconceptions'
Dr Charlotte Brookfield, a Reader at the School of Social Sciences, has brought numbers to life for her predominantly female students, bridging the gap between numeracy – often perceived as a male-dominated discipline – and the study of the social world. Driven by a desire to equip students with the tools to analyse and make sense of the contemporary world, Charlotte has instilled intellectual curiosity in her students – and gifted them expertise to help make vital contributions to multiple fields as graduates.
In this challenging area of study, Charlotte has reframed teaching, championing myth-busting, fun real-world examples to explain statistical concepts – how many chocolate chips in different supermarket brand cookies? – and an emphasis on lively student participation.
Her efforts have resulted in remarkable metrics: 100% student satisfaction for her Real World Research module, the highest levels of engagement and attendance, assessment outcomes, increased numbers of students opting to continue their studies in quantitative methods and those progressing to careers in the field. She has also received multiple award nominations spanning the whole range of her skills, including: most uplifting member of staff, most innovative, personal tutor of the year and excellence in student engagement.
Dr Brookfield said: "I am absolutely delighted to receive this award. Across the UK and internationally, so many initiatives have been developed to better engage social science students with quantitative research methods, and I feel incredibly privileged to have collaborated with dedicated colleagues who work tirelessly to spark enthusiasm for numbers. To have my own contribution to this collective effort recognised in this way is truly special. I am particularly proud of the many students I have seen exceed their expectations in quantitative research methods assessments and go on to secure fantastic research careers. As a member of the School of Social Sciences' alumni myself, receiving this award feels a little surreal and underscores my commitment to supporting future cohorts in the School, so they can pursue their own goals with confidence."
Charlotte's work is shattering preconceptions about the nature of higher education quantitative methods teaching. She has shaped a unique provision that is hugely engaging, authentic to current issues and inclusive. We are so proud of Charlotte and her achievements. Her outstanding impact in a tricky area of study is truly impressive and we are delighted that she has been recognised with this award.
Transforming anatomy education
Dr Hannah Shaw, a Reader in the School of Biosciences is a leading light in anatomy education, frequently winning prizes for her teaching and garnering hugely positive feedback from staff and students alike.
As academic lead for the University's Wales Centre for Anatomical Education she has revitalised the learning experience for students from multiple Schools, combining innovation with traditional practices and bringing about a complete transformation of the way in which students approach anatomy and working with body donors.
Hannah has taken the classical core of anatomy teaching, combined it with active, collaborative learning and high-quality digital resources. Importantly, Hannah has situated anatomy education within a social and emotional context, leading on a range of initiatives that develop important professional skills and encourage students to consider and demonstrate gratitude to body donors. Students are extensively involved with the delivery of the University Memorial event to which the relatives of donors are invited, and which have a powerful impact on all involved. Students produce poetry, artwork and reflective writings that acknowledge the irreplaceable role body donors play in their education, and these are displayed for the benefit of the families.
This work has led to Hannah winning multiple institutional awards from 'Rising Star' to 'Most Effective Teacher'.
Influential nationally, as chair of the Anatomical Society Education Committee, Hannah has also led on and delivered projects to support the development of anatomy educators and raised the quality of the resources available to teachers and students throughout the sector.
Dr Shaw said: "Being awarded a National Teaching Fellowship is an absolute honour. It reflects my commitment to fostering active learning communities, advancing professional skills, and supporting the development of anatomy educators. It's a privilege to see anatomy education at Cardiff University recognised in this way."
Hannah's work exemplifies what we are doing at Cardiff - developing provision that gives students stimulating and intellectually challenging learning opportunities aligned with employer needs. Her work has transformed anatomy education and established powerful links with the community. Hannah is also dedicated to her own learning - for the benefit of her students - and we are incredibly proud of her work. This award is much deserved.
The National Teaching Awards are highly competitive and an independent panel of senior higher education leaders, representing the four UK nations, assures their quality.
