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University teachers named among best in NSW

Friday 1 December 2006

Two University of Newcastle academics have today been named as among the best university teachers in New South Wales.

Dr Philip Morgan from the School of Education and Dr Jill Gibbons from the School of Humanities and Social Science, both in the Faculty of Education and Arts, have received Quality Teaching Awards (QTA).

The awards are given to teachers who demonstrate a commitment to excellence and student achievement. They were presented this afternoon by the State Minister for Education and Training, Carmel Tebbutt.

The QTA tops off an outstanding year for Dr Morgan, who has this year won seven awards for the quality of his teaching in higher education.

In addition to his excellent teaching, Dr Morgan is advancing the quality of Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) and sport in primary schools through his work one on childhood obesity.

Dr Gibbons was a founding member of the University's social work program and has taught many students over the last 16 years.

She is internationally recognised for her student-centred approach to social work, which involves problem-based learning.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Kevin McConkey, said the awards highlighted the outstanding teaching and learning at the University.

"The University of Newcastle strives for excellence in teaching and learning, and both Dr Morgan and Dr Gibbons are fine examples of this," he said.

"These awards are the result of a vigorous selection process in which Doctors Morgan and Gibbons were observed in the classroom with students, and comments on their teaching were also obtained from students, parents and colleagues.

"They are outstanding educators, and both have also won University awards for teaching excellence.

"The University community is delighted to see them win this wonderful award."

Contact: Dr Phil Morgan on 0402 445 988; Dr Jill Gibbons on 0427 772 404; Professor Kevin McConkey on 0419 633 244.