Programme

To view this year’s bumper packed programme, please visit the following link Horizons in STEM HE Conference 2021.

We are delighted to announce the following keynote presenters for this year’s conference.

Opening Keynote Presentation: Tuesday 29th June, 9:30-10:00

Paul Taylor, Professor of Chemical Education & Dean: Student Education (Experience), University of Leeds

Title: Success for All Students in the STEM Curriculum

Abstract: A lot of attention is being given to differential attainment at degree level. Analysis of degree classifications by different protective characteristic or social group shows disturbing differences. University staff and students are rightly concerned and are looking for solutions. However, this is a complex problem and there are no simple fixes. In this short keynote I will discuss some potential ways to start improving outcomes for all students, illustrated with practical examples.

At a high level, decolonization is an important, if controversial, approach to ensuring curriculum feels relevant to all. At a more operational level, we can work to remove barriers to participation in student opportunities, for example work placements, which are known to significantly enhance positive outcomes. Inclusive practice can have a big impact on student success, including digital accessibility, which provides some particular challenges in STEM subjects. Underpinning all this are approaches that ensure all students feel a sense of belonging in their institution and on their programme of study.

The keynote will be brief to ensure there is space for discussion and sharing of ideas.

Biography: Paul Taylor grew up in West Yorkshire. After six years studying Chemistry at the University of Durham and two years postdoctoral research on antimalarials at the University of Geneva, Paul moved to the University of Warwick as a Lecturer, developing pedagogic interests in research-based learning alongside his scientific research. In 2007 Paul became Director of the Reinvention Centre for Undergraduate Research at Warwick and Oxford Brookes. In 2010 he was a founding Director of the Institute for Advanced Teaching & Learning at Warwick.

In 2015, Paul moved to the University of Leeds as Professor of Chemical Education and Director of Student Education for the School of Chemistry. Two years later he moved to the Pro-Dean Education role in the Faculty and in 2021 to his current role of Dean: Student Education (Experience) at Leeds. Paul’s current pedagogic interests are in Undergraduate Research, Partnership, Inclusive Practice, Decolonisation and Leadership in HE. Paul continues scientific research in Molecular Evolution.

Closing Keynote Presentation: Wednesday 30th June, 11:45-12:15

Jon Scott FRSB, Higher Education Consultant and Emeritus Professor of Bioscience Education, University of Leicester

Title: Fragmented transitions: Reflections on student progression to and within university

Abstract: Over the last 15 months school, college and university students have experienced significant academic and social disruption as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this discussion we will reflect on aspects of the student learning experience, both as they progress to university but also the impact on current first years who will be progressing to the second year of their studies.

Biography: Jon is a higher education consultant and Emeritus Professor of Bioscience Education at the University of Leicester where he was Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience. Jon’s research interests have included assessment and feedback, academic integrity and belonging and retention. He also strongly advocates for reward and recognition for teaching. He is a Principal Fellow of AdvanceHE, was the UK Bioscience Teacher of the Year in 2011 and won a National Teaching Fellowship in 2012. Jon is a longstanding QAA Reviewer and UKPSF Accreditor for AdvanceHE.

Conference Sponsor

We are very excited to be once again partnering with Learning Science for a special showcase of the Teaching Innovation Awards winners from 2020. This workshop takes place on Tuesday 29th June, 11:30-12:30.