Teaching Philosophy.
Teaching Philosophy.
Teaching is not merely a profession but rather a profound and transformative undertaking that shapes the future of individuals, facilitating positive societal contributions. My teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that education is a dynamic process extending beyond simple knowledge transference. It is about inspiring curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing personal and intellectual growth. Through integrating innovative pedagogical strategies and committing to the delivery of supportive and inclusive learning environments, I aim to empower students to become lifelong learners and valued members of their communities.
Confucius wrote: "By three methods we may learn wisdom: first, by reflection, which is noblest; second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is bitterest..." (Confucius). This timeless wisdom encapsulates the multifaceted nature of learning.
Effective teaching embodies a dual focus - possessing and conveying knowledge and the relational aspect of mentoring and inspiring the student (Raziq & Lane-Krebs, 2021). A teacher, as a leader, must facilitate an open exchange of information; however, what the student learns extends beyond the confines of the subject matter as the teacher also becomes a role model and mentor.
Creating inclusive learning environments that value diversity, fosters an inquisitive mind and an excitement to learn. Through engaging teaching methodologies and technological integration, students obtain knowledge, enhance critical thinking, and a passion for lifelong learning (Darling-Harmond et al., 2020; Hodges et al., 2020).
“First, you follow, then you lead, and then teach others to lead.”
Confucius. (2009). The Analects: A foundational text of Confucianism, (Book 2, Chapter 15).
Darling-Hammond, L., Flook, L., Cook-Harvey, C., Barron, B., & Osher, D. (2020). Implications for educational practice of the science of learning and development. Applied Developmental Science, 24(2), 97-140.
Hodges, C., Moore, S., Lockee, B., Trust, T., & Bond, A. (2020). The difference between emergency remote teaching and online learning. EDUCAUSE, Review, 27.
Raziq, A. & Lane-Krebs, K. (2021). Motivation and job satisfaction among teachers, Ilkogretim Online, 20(4).
2023 VC Excellence Award Recipient
2023 VC Excellence Awards Nominee
2022 VC Excellence Awards Nominee
2021 VC Excellence Awards Nominee
2012 National Award for Teaching Excellence (Nominee)
2010 Pride of Australia Medal - Inspiration in Education (semi-finalist)
Member of the Golden Key International Honors Society
Teaching and Learning interests: Paediatric and adult Rehabilitation
Paediatric Hematology & Oncology
Neuro Development interventions, including hydro, dance & music therapies
Forensic Nursing and Behavioural Assessment
Distance education
Simulation (low and high fidelity)
Australian Primary Care Nurses Association
Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Association
CATSINaM Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives
International Association of Forensic Nurses
Australian Society of Authors- Full Member
Current roles:
Reconciliation Action Plan CHampion (RAP)
Campus Coordinator (Bundaberg)
Campus Growth Committee (Bundaberg)
ALLY Campus Contact
A/HOC
Previous roles:
A/DDLT
Assistant to the Dean for Simulation
Champion for Technology & inclusion in online education
Champion for Online Education delivery (MOC)
As an advocate for the inclusion of children with special needs, part of my research interest pertains to pediatric rehabilitation- specifically neuro-development and rehabilitation; with a strong focus on hydro and play therapy options and complementary therapies such as music and dance therapy interventions. Additionally, a focus on family studies to build strong relationships in the face of trauma, disability and loss is also included within my scope.
My Master's Degree produced a thesis entitled: "Dancing in the Spotlight: A creative writing approach depicting the lived experience of parenting a child with special needs". The work included exploration of the use of narrative therapy as an intervention for addressing mental health issues associated with chronic stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
My PhD is related to trauma-informed recovery and empowerment. The thesis title was: The Bricoleur: Re-choreographing lives – rewriting the master script. The Phenomenon of mothering as described by Mothers of children living with spastic cerebral palsy.
I am active in the field of inclusive practice for those living with a disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Education Systems - Higher Education
Other health sciences - Other health sciences not elsewhere classified
Other human society - Other human society not elsewhere classified
Other psychology - Other psychology not elsewhere classified