Eighth annual conference reflects commitment to 'truly excellent' Learning and Teaching

More than 130 Harper Adams employees have honed their excellent teaching and support even further at this year’s annual Learning and Teaching conference.

The conference – which is now in its eighth year - brings together University employees who teach or support learning so they can catch up, share ideas and tips, and more.

Harper Adams Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning, Teaching and Digital) Professor Lydia Arnold, said: “This flagship event occurs annually and is a celebration and convergence of our collective efforts in education and student support. It features presentations and workshops hosted by our University staff - and by colleagues from other institutions who join us to share their practices.

“The conference marks a moment in the year, just before the formal term begins, where staff exchange practices and focus on developing their approaches to teaching and assessment.

“We were delighted by the attendance this year and the various sessions and topics which were discussed. The energy in this day reflects the way our community is truly committed to providing and developing excellent teaching.”

A series of external speakers hosted sessions during the day, covering topics as diverse as virtual reality, the future skills agenda, neurodiversity, mental health needs, and shared classroom practices.

Speakers and participants sharing their insights during the day were drawn from the University of Kent, Keele University, De Montfort University, the University of Teesside, and Askham Bryan College.

Lydia added: “We were excited to host author and futurist Russell Beck as our keynote speaker.

“His presentation inspired us to consider the skills needed for the future—a topic we continually explore as part of our ongoing curriculum development.

“It is crucial for both students and staff at our University to be prepared with the necessary skills, as we take the evolving demands of society and technology seriously.”

During a working lunch, attendees were able to network, discuss posters on teaching and learning, and to congratulate and celebrate the winners of the Student Voice awards 2024.

Lydia added: “At the end of the day, the community group continued the celebrations, bringing staff together for sports and festivities.

“It was a truly positive way to mark the transition of the academic year and to step back and celebrate teaching excellence.”