Darren Swanson
MA (hons), MLitt, PhDLecturer
School of Access Education
400 - 1.10
Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
My background is Anthropology/Museum Studies and East Asian history. I spent nearly eight years studying and teaching in the Kansai region of Japan. Since 2017, I have been based at the School of Access Education. My work focuses on enhancing students' academic literacy skills, with a particular interest in how generative AI can support learning and ethical engagement. I am passionate about equipping students with the critical thinking and communication skills needed for success in an AI-driven world.
Background
I am a Lecturer in Academic Literacy at CQUniversity, with a PhD in History and Asian Studies from the University of Sydney. My academic journey has taken me from Scotland to Japan and Australia, shaping my expertise in teaching, research, and curriculum development. My work focuses on enhancing students' academic literacy and critical thinking skills, with a particular interest in the role of generative AI in higher education. I have co-authored research on ethical AI engagement and cognitive learning strategies and am developing an app to support student learning. Passionate about fostering academic success, I design tailored workshops, supervise research, and contribute to innovative pedagogical practices.
Universities Studied At
Aberdeen University, Scotland - MA (hons) Anthropology and Celtic Studies
St Andrews University, Scotland - MLitt Museum Studies
Kobe University, Japan - MEXT Scholar, Research Assistant
The University of Sydney, Australia - PhD in History/Asian Studies
Universities Worked At
Aberdeen University
The University of Sydney
Central Queensland University
Awards
Japan Study Grant, 2015, National Library of Australia
Scottish Samurai Award, 2019, Scotland
Previous teaching
Tezukayama University, Osaka, Japan
Mukogawa Women's Universit, Nishinomiya, Japan
The University of Sydney, Australia
Accreditation
I am currently accredited for supervision in the following:
- 4401 Anthropology
- 4303 Historical Studies
- 4702 Cultural Studies
Current Capacity
Current Supervision
Curriculum and Pedagogy - Curriculum and Pedagogy Theory and Development
Heritage, archive and museum studies - Critical heritage, museum and archive studies
