Teaching Within Academic: Lisa

Individual Context:

Lisa is a practising textile designer and her work relates to racism, social equality and inclusive pedagogies.

Lisa within her education experience has been subjected to racism and segregation. This has always been an area of interest and an area she is incredibly passionate about. Lisa has conducted a variety of researchled projects tailored around exploring practical ways to combat this existing problem. The programme allowed her to embark on the highest self-selected unit the inclusive practice unit. In this unit, she was able to expand her knowledge expertise and also obtain a high grade which would contribute to her overall grade as part of the PGcert. The unit explores critical race theories and inclusive pedagogies.

Teaching Within Programme:

The inclusive practice unit was the first place I was able to highlight and discuss the inequalities that so many diverse students and staff of colour feel within higher education. I was able to not only be honest but share my experience to help provide meaningful knowledge to my peers and expand my vocabulary which was suitable in a higher education setting.

The integration into the course teaching team through this programme was quite straightforward and I felt valued for my contribution in both the delivery and my suggested additions to enhance to current courses activities. However the PgCert elective unit was very challenging in that both the teaching team and the predominantly mono-cultured cohort struggled to engage with my view, interpretations of the unit and context. Whilst this was upsetting, the Teaching Within programme’s additional support structure was useful, as it allowed a safe space for critical reflection and shared ideas.