Change is difficult

Making it happen and making it stick

Abstract

Monash University is transforming its educational offering with a focus on students actively engaging in their learning experiences with educators changing their teaching practice so as to make that happen. The disruption to traditional approaches to education through innovative curricula, multi-faceted modes of delivery and purposeful learning spaces is challenging our educators to think about how students learn, and how to provide students with a quality educational experience. The University has employed a group of Educational Designers (EDs) and embedded these in each of the ten faculties to lead the change. The EDs interpret and implement the University education agenda within their faculties, partnering with academics to innovate teaching and learning across the University.

This paper draws on case study methodology utilising two case studies, from the Arts and Science Faculties, to demonstrate how the EDs have enabled sustainable educational transformation. Despite working across ten faculties with various foci for enhancement, the EDs have coordinated their efforts to build staff capacity and resilience through a range of practical support strategies and programs. The strength of this support is grounded in the relationships that they are able to develop with our academic partners over time.