Training program

Integrated Training Program in Teaching Writing for Faculty and Casual Staff

This stage of the project will address the third project aim by coordinating an ongoing training program for faculty and casual staff in teaching writing.

It directly deals with two central problems preventing effective writing instruction: teachers' own perceptions of their lack of expertise, and a tendency to focus on the short term.

In response, this training program will facilitate instruction, mentoring and the sharing of ideas across different levels of experience, areas of expertise and disciplines, promoting an ongoing structure for engagement with writing instruction across the institution.

Dr Jill McKeowen, from the Learning Development unit at the University of Newcastle, will be responsible for this stage of the project. Dr McKeowen holds a PhD in creative writing and has over twenty years experience in teaching writing skills at different levels across the tertiary sector, including to Faculty and casual staff. She will be assisted by Dr Smith and Dr Osland, who have experience in teaching writing skills both within their discipline and in other faculties. They will run the workshops in consultation with project team members within the disciplines.