University of York vice chancellor’s teaching award

Description

The Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching Awards at the University of York are an annual recognition program designed to celebrate and honor outstanding contributions to teaching and learning support. Established to promote excellence in education, these awards highlight colleagues who demonstrate sustained impact on students and peers, innovative approaches to pedagogy, and commitment to professional development. Chaired by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Teaching, Learning and Students, the selection panel evaluates nominations based on three core criteria: sustained excellence in teaching or support activities over time, creative methods focused on student needs, and influence on colleagues beyond immediate roles. Awards are conferred formally at graduation ceremonies by the Chancellor or Vice-Chancellor, typically numbering 9–27 per year, and serve as a mark of distinction that enhances recipients’ profiles for career progression.

Program Overview and Impact

The awards, launched in the early 2010s, have become a cornerstone of York’s commitment to pedagogical innovation, fostering a culture of reflective practice and student-centered learning. They recognize diverse achievements, from individual lecturers to teams, and include categories such as Career Excellence, Early Career, and posthumous honors. Since 2013, over 100 awards have been granted, with recipients often nominated by students or colleagues, emphasizing tangible improvements in learning outcomes. For instance, in 2021, 27 awards were made, showcasing the program’s role in elevating teaching standards amid hybrid learning challenges. These honors not only affirm personal accomplishments but also inspire institutional change, aligning with York’s strategy to enhance teaching quality and student experience.

Award Criteria and Selection Process

Nominations are open to all staff involved in teaching or learning support, with a focus on evidence of impact. The criteria prioritize:

• Sustained Excellence: Demonstrated high performance over a reasonable period, often 2–5 years.
• Creative Approach: Innovative techniques tailored to student learning needs, such as inclusive digital tools or experiential projects.
• Broader Influence: Contributions to departmental or university-wide practices, like mentoring or curriculum reform.

The process involves submitting a nomination form with supporting evidence, including student feedback and peer testimonials, reviewed by a panel led by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor. Applications close in late summer, with awards announced in autumn and presented at graduations.

Notable Recipients and Outcomes

• 2021 Awards: 27 recipients, including teams in Archaeology (Researching Archaeology Team) and Women’s Studies (Centre for Women’s Studies), recognized for inclusive fieldwork and transformative teaching.
• 2020 Awards: 26 honors, with posthumous recognition for Dr. Don Henson in Archaeology.
• 2019 Awards: 15 awards, highlighting early-career excellence like Dr. Benjamin Poore in Theatre.
• 2018 Awards: 16 recipients, including Professor Mike Bentley in Physics for student-nominated enthusiasm.
• 2015 Awards: 9 grants, such as to Professor David Howard in Electronics for innovative assessments.

Recipients gain professional recognition, potential for promotion, and opportunities to lead teaching initiatives, contributing to York’s ranking as a top 10 UK university for teaching (Times Higher Education 2023).

In summary, the University of York Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching Awards embody a commitment to educational excellence, honoring those who inspire and elevate learning. For staff, they represent career milestones and community impact.