The EF Lunch & Learn series witnessed a shift in format and an array of engaging topics this year as EF Communities of Practice (EF CoPs) took the lead in designing workshops that delved into different facets of teaching, learning, and student experience at UNSW. Previously hosted by a different Faculty every month, the revamped series served as a platform for the EF CoPs to showcase the initiatives they’ve been working on recently.
In 2023, three Lunch & Learn sessions were held from September to November at the brand new Teaching Commons space, tackling the topics of teamwork, AI in teaching, and innovations in inclusive teaching at UNSW:
20 September - Teamwork Mastery: An educators guide to student success
Kicking off the series, the Teamwork CoP facilitated the discussion offering practical tips to transform the often-dreaded experience of teamwork into a positive learning adventure. Led by Dr Nirmani Wijenayake and Dr Chris Maloney, the session covered team formation, conflict resolution, and assessment strategies, sparking engaging discussions among participants.
12 October - Disconnecting to reconnect: a mid-term recharge for educators
October saw the Digital and Online Learning Innovation (DOLI) CoP leading an exploration into AI, data-informed teaching, and showcasing the support extended by PVCESE’s Educational Technology Services (ETS). The facilitated roundtable discussions provided opportunities for valuable discussion around the intersection of educational technology, teaching and learning, and improving student experience.
30 November - Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: How to showcase your good practice
The Teaching for Equity & Diversity (TED) CoP took the stage in November, offering practical tips to teaching academics on how to effectively showcase their good practice or projects supporting students’ equity, diversity, and inclusion in higher education. The session saw CoP members share their practices through the ‘Teaching for Equity & Diversity: The Vignette Project’, supported by Dr. Beth Beckmann, bringing a wealth of student-centred practices to the forefront.
Beyond the discussions, the series fostered connections and camaraderie during the lunch and networking segments before the sessions began, where educators from diverse backgrounds and disciplines connect and catch up.
A heartfelt thank you to the CoPs, presenters, and participants who contributed to the success of these events. Their dedication has transformed the series into not just a platform for learning but a space for shared educational exploration.
Stay tuned next year as the EF Lunch & Learn series gears up for another exciting chapter with a continued commitment to fostering collaboration within and outside UNSW. Visit the Education website events page for updates.