In October 2019 I undertook the SEDA[1] Supporting and Leading Educational Change (SLEC) short course. This portfolio forms a written narrative of my learning journey through the programme. It explores how it has supported critical reflection on my professional identity and practice and highlighted potential areas for future development. The programme has had a highly positive impact on my professional practice, and I’m delighted that, because of it, I now see my role as an academic developer. The portfolio has four key sections:
- a description of my current role and reflections on professional development priorities;
- a case study focusing on the establishment of an academic development initiative as the basis for a deeper reflective critique of my practice;
- an examination of the values which underpin my practice;
- an action plan to guide the next phase of my learning journey.
The University of the Highlands and Islands is a tertiary university encompassing both further and higher education. As part of a regional university structure, it brings together a partnership of 13 independent colleges and research institutions based in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Many of these academic partner colleges are in rural island communities and include a number of the 70 learning centres which enable students to remain in their local community while studying. Most staff are based in and employed by an academic partner, with their own employment terms and conditions, strategies and priorities. This diverse geographical, organisational and cultural landscape forms the backdrop to my current professional practice and approaches to academic development.
Current role and professional development priorities
[1] SEDA is the professional association for staff and educational developers in the UK, promoting innovation and good practice in higher education.
Learning portfolio by Ann Tilbury 