Congratulations to Dr Vic Pearson

We are incredibly excited to share the announcement that Dr Vic Pearson, one of our Associate Directors, has been awarded a National Teaching Fellowship in the 2021 National Teaching Fellowship Scheme (NTFS).

The NTFS recognises excellence in teaching and celebrates individuals who have made an outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession. Vic has been recognised for the innovative methods of teaching that she has introduced to support science module teams with the inclusion of all students, especially students in secure environments (SiSE) and those with disabilities.

Driven by her belief all students should have the same chance of success, regardless of their needs, Vic has influenced STEM Faculty staff in their approach to module production and delivery and led institutional change initiatives to ensure that accessibility has become ‘business as usual’.

Professor Nick Braithwaite, Executive Dean for STEM, said:

“Vic has brought scholarship and passion to her championing of inclusive and accessible teaching in STEM – this National Teaching Fellowship is a recognition of her excellent achievements and substantial impact. Her readiness to challenge is matched by her skill in identifying practical improvements.”

Commenting on her award, Dr Pearson, said:

“I am blown away but hugely honoured to be recognised in this way, particularly to know that my work is acknowledged as being impactful and highly valued. None of it would be possible, however, without the shared commitment of many of my colleagues to accessibility and inclusion. This work is at the heart of the OU’s mission and is critical for ensuring our students continue to have the best learning experiences they can, regardless of circumstance.”

This year the National Teaching Fellowship Scheme (NTFS) surpass 1,000 awardees in its 21-year history. The scheme celebrates and recognises individuals who have made an outstanding impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession in higher education.

Awards are made annually from a process that requires applicants to provide an evidenced and endorsed case of their approaches to teaching, and how their work has impacted on teaching and learning in higher education, within their institution and beyond. The application is assessed by three independent reviewers against set robust criteria.

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