Teaching Excellence Early Career Award Finalists
Awarded to an individual academic with less than 5 years teaching experience who has made an outstanding impact and contribution to student learning outcomes at our University.
Dr Ryan Drew, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy
Dr Ryan Drew, Program Convenor for Exercise and Sport Science, has led a collaborative, innovative teaching approach focused on real-world outcomes for diverse learners. He has taught more 1,800 students across three campuses, achieving an exceptional mean QLE-Teaching score of 4.9/5. Ryan led program re-accreditation, embedded evidence-based pedagogy, expanded student pathways by establishing three combined degrees, and embedded micro-credentials to boost graduate employability.
Matt McInnes, School of Education
Matt McInnes is recognised for his outstanding innovation in converting EDUC6781 - Contemporary Literacies - into an online course that maximises engagement and learning. Since 2022, Matt has lifted Quality Learning Experience (QLE) score from 3.9 to 4.6/5 while enrolments grew from 74 to over 200 students, with 94 of 104 feedback comments overwhelmingly positive. Through application of recent theory and integration of his own experiential learning in distance education, Matt has developed an innovative and engaging course that connects theory to classroom practice.
Shellie Smith, School of Architecture and Built Environment
By reimagining the design critique through Indigenous pedagogies, Shellie Smith has enhanced student learning, supported diverse abilities, and transformed the culture of teaching within the School of Architecture and Built Environment (SABE). Recognised nationally through the Association of Architecture Schools of Australasia (AASA) Teaching and Research Grant, Shellie’s work has national significance, offering a replicable model for embedding Indigenous ways of knowing and decolonising assessment design in architectural education. Shellie has made an outstanding contribution to teaching innovation in higher education.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.