Outstanding Monash academics honoured with major awards
Two outstanding academics at Monash University have been recognised with the nation’s most prestigious teaching honours during a ceremony at Universities Australia’s annual higher education conference on Tuesday 26 February 2019.
Dr Simone Gibson, Direction of Education for Monash University’s School of Clinical Sciences, received the 2018 Awards for Teaching Excellence in Biological, Health and Related Studies. Her teaching uses simulated and real patient experiences to give students the clinical knowledge they need to succeed in fast-paced hospital environments.
Professor Alistair Thomson, Professor of History in the School of Philosophical, Historical and International Studies, was recognised for the same Teaching Excellence Award in the Humanities and Arts category.
In a career spanning three decades, Professor Thomson’s innovative teaching partnerships with industry and community organisations sees students research and write history, as well as gain the skills needed to work in the history and cultural industries.
Both recipients received a $15,000 cash prize for their outstanding contributions to university teaching.
Monash University Vice Chancellor and President, and Universities Australia Chair, Professor Margaret Gardner AO, said inspiring teachers changed lives.
“Our greatest university educators not only prepare students for the careers that await – they also spark a deep passion for ideas, knowledge and evidence in those they teach,” Professor Gardner said.
“Great teaching expands our thinking and broadens our horizons. It brings out the best in a learner and it makes learning joyous. That is what these awards recognise.”
The Australian Awards for University Teaching have existed for more than two decades. This year’s awards recognise 13 outstanding teachers and teaching programs nationally.
Take a look at the video links of our two award recipients – Dr Simone Gibson / Professor Alistair Thomson