Dental Academy

Profile

I have worked at the Dental Academy since 2005 and currently co-ordinate three units of study; Restorative Operative Techniques, Communication in Dental Practice and Paediatric Operative Techniques. As the Year Two Lead I work closely with the other Course and Year Leads to ensure the quality of the UPDA academic programmes, whilst supporting the UPDA Academic Team and students. I am also responsible for the production of the quarterly Academic Newsletter ‘Filling-in’, which aids communication with UPDA students and staff.

Research interests

I researched the student perception of asynchronous online learning and the use of discussion boards to engage students with a topic area, when working towards my PGCLTHE. I was subsequently asked to present my findings and experiences at the UofP Christmas Learning and Teaching Conference (2008; Discussion Threads).

During my time at the UoP I have presented at two further Learning and Teaching conferences on student engagement with e-portfolios ( December 2009; e-portfolios, September 2010; Developing Academic Attainment ). I have also presented to the Centre for Recording Achievement (October 2009; Exploring student online engagement).  I have more recently presented at a DCQE Academic Development Event on the use of Reusable Learning Objects (October 2011).

In September 2011 I completed a Masters in Learning and Teaching. During my studies I carried out a project report on UPDA student engagement with Virtual Learning Environments. My dissertation researched the use of e-portfolios and clinical reflection as part of the UPDA student learning journey. My research focused on the UPDA BSc student and staff perspectives of recording clinical reflection, including consideration of the impact of the specific requirements of identified stakeholders during this process (from a local, departmental and national context).  My long term goal is to undertake a Professional Doctorate in Education.