Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi

(With your contributions and my contributions, we will all prosper)

The Science Teaching & Learning Academy (STELA) is a Community of Interest focused on improving teaching and learning practices in our faculty. STELA is an opportunity for anyone passionate about teaching, including early career lecturers, research fellows involved in teaching and thinking of forging a teaching career, through to Associate Professor, Professor as well as professional staff working in the space of learner success to contribute to excellence in science education.

Learning from each other and sharing practices guided by values of whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga in an inclusive and diverse community of teachers is crucial in shaping the future of education at the University of Auckland. STELA members are expected to play an active role in the development of teaching capability in science with the aim to:

Empower staff to contribute to an environment of excellence, leadership, and innovation in science education.
Build strong and collaborative relationships within the science teaching and learning community.
Guide, develop, and implement strategic learning and teaching initiatives.
Share practices and experiences to support career development in teaching.

If you are interested in joining this community, please email either Marion Blumenstein, Curriculum Development Manager Science, m.blumenstein@auckland.ac.nz or Andrew Luxton-Reilly, Associate Dean Teaching & Learning, a.luxton-reilly@auckland.ac.nz. STELA members meet in person every 6-8 weeks.

It is envisaged that sub-groups of STELA will work on different projects according to expertise and interest that can inform the development of resources and provide guidance in science education. Examples include:

Peer Assessment and/or Group Work
Supporting Student Transitions to University
Developing Metacognitive Skills
Student Voice and Collecting Feedback about Teaching from Students
Relational Teaching Practices
GTA/TA Training and Ongoing Professional Development
Cultural Safety and Appropriateness in Teaching
Teaching Awards and Grants
Staff Peer Review of Teaching