The Outstanding Teaching Awards are all about celebrating the teaching staff from each of the University’s five colleges. The OTA is awarded to the tutor who has demonstrated excellent teaching and has really made a difference to a students’ time on their course.
This year we received a huge 460 nominations, all from students who believe their tutor has positively impacted their time at UoB.
So, it’s time to reveal the winners and highlight some of their students’ feedback…
First up, your winner from the College of Arts and Law is Paul McConnell! Students complimented Paul for his dedication to organising a range of careers events to support students, his timely responses to emails and for consistently being on call to give academic and professional advice.
Now, on to the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences…
Congratulations to Karl Dearn who was recognised for his interactive lectures, filmed feedback on CANVAS and going that extra mile to help his students, even if this fell outside of his teaching schedule!
Jonathan Mueller was the winner from the College of Medical and Dental Sciences. You said Jonathan is a ‘friendly face’, who always pushes students to achieve their absolute best. Jonathan was celebrated for offering his students academic and career advice, and supporting students during difficult times at Uni.
Next up, your winner from the College of Life and Environmental Sciences is George Balanos, for making time to listen to, and assist his students even if this fell outside of his office hours. George’s enthusiasm for teaching, and passion for his area of research really shines through!
Finally, here’s a huge congratulations to Laura Jenkins; the winner from the College of Social Sciences. Laura’s students complimented her for creating a ‘safe, positive and equal environment’ in seminars, as well as going out of her way to learn names and respect all opinions. You said that Laura’s passion shines through in every lecture!
Well, that’s it folks. We wanted to say final congratulations to all of this year’s OTA winners for all of your hard work, and a massive thank you to all students who nominated and celebrated the amazing work of their teachers!