A holistic framework for developing excellent academic practice

Authors

  • Ruth Pickford Leeds Beckett University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21100/compass.v11i2.933

Keywords:

Opportunities, Engagement, Academic Practice, Organisational Learning, Excellence

Abstract

This article outlines an original and practical framework that synoptically integrates the factors underpinning a strategic approach to developing excellent academic practice (DEAP) within an institution.It considers recent developments driving development of ‘excellence’ in academic practice and describes a practical model – based on the requirements of the sector, the needs of institutions and the perspectives and goals of staff – that can be used to meet the desires of the various stakeholders.The framework’s philosophy is that outcomes depend upon three factors: individual colleagues’ attributes at different stages of their career; the opportunities provided at each career stage to develop academic practice; and the agency of the colleague and the institution to engage with one another behaviourally, emotionally and/or cognitively to align these attributes and opportunities.The framework is likely to be of practical use to all staff engaged in developing their own or others’ academic practice, while at the same time offering a theoretical framework for scholarship.

Author Biography

Ruth Pickford, Leeds Beckett University

Professor Ruth Pickford is Director of Learning and Teaching at Leeds Beckett University. She is a UK National Teaching Fellow and a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Ruth’s books on teaching and learning in higher education have been translated into several languages. Her current research interests are teaching excellence and student and academic practitioner engagement. She is a popular speaker and writer on higher education and often calls on her systems engineering background to analyse higher education as a holistic system.

References

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Published

12/10/2018

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 2 (2018)

Section

Research Articles

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