Summary

I am the Associate Head (Academic) for the School of Education and Sociology.

Biography

I have been working in the field of education for over 19 years covering various roles. In my final role before joining the University, I was the Teaching, Learning & Quality Manager at an FE college, in addition to being a centre quality reviewer for Edexcel. I have conducted research in collaboration with a number of establishments and funded by the ETF, investigating: the use of digital technologies within assessment feedback; an online staff development space; and impact of behavioural science interventions on the progression of learners to higher level academic courses. More recently I have led a team of investigators (funded by the SUN) exploring the decision making processes of second year FE college students, regarding their choices post college. I have presented at local and national conferences, including the Festival of Skills and Digifest, and am keen to continue exploring the impact of differing pedagogical techniques and how leaders in education implement these effectively.

Research interests

My research interests have been driven by my background in leading teaching and learning. My work oscillates between qualitative and quantitative design, which is informed by both my physical science degree background, and my current social science environment.

My research focus is varied and explores:

• The notion of performativity measures used within further education
• The lived experience of degree apprentice students
• Decision making processes of college students with regard to choices post-18

Teaching responsibilities

I currently coordinate modules and teach on the MSc Educational Leadership & Management programme, where I am experienced in working with eclectic groups. The programme consists of a wonderfully diverse mixture of students, with the cohort composed of home and international students studying on campus; and also UK based students, international students and expat students studying the course around the world, via online distance learning.