Inspirational Teaching: Beyond Excellence and Towards Collaboration for Learning with Sustained Impact

Authors

  • Kathrine SH Jensen University of Huddersfield
  • Joelle Adams Bath Spa University
  • Karen Strickland The Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, Scotland

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14297/jpaap.v2i2.88

Keywords:

teaching, excellence, inspirational, learning, collaborative

Abstract

Within higher education, there is a continued focus on teaching quality, with teaching excellence often linked to the idea of engaging and motivating students. This article examines the concept of ‘inspirational’ teaching, going beyond notions of excellent teaching, and proposes that inspirational teaching is defined by being transformational in the sense that it has a sustained positive impact on student learning. By exploring current literature on inspirational teaching, including some literature on teaching excellence, four overarching themes are identified as constituents of inspirational teaching: knowledge and passion for the subject, understanding learning and knowledge, constructive and challenging learning environment and students as individuals, partners and colleagues. The practices of the inspirational teachers presented are characterised by their focus on student learning rather than teacher performance and so indicate that inspirational teaching is an outcome that cannot be reduced to a set of characteristics or practices. Finally, we conclude that collaborative and scholarly relationships between students and teachers underpin these four themes and are central to creating inspirational learning experiences.

Author Biographies

Kathrine SH Jensen, University of Huddersfield

Kathrine Jensen is a research assistant at the Teaching and Learning Institute at the University of Huddersfield where she supports and connects colleagues to develop inspiring and innovative teaching and learning.

Twitter: @kshjensen

http://about.me/kshjensen

Joelle Adams, Bath Spa University

Joelle Adams is Deputy Director Library Services (Learning Development) at Bath Spa University, 2013 Higher Education Academy Ron Cooke International Scholar and Vice-Chair of the Staff and Educational Development Association.

Twitter: @joelle8

LinkedIn: http://uk.linkedin.com/in/joelleadams

Karen Strickland, The Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, Scotland

Dr. Karen Strickland is Associate Head of School in the School of Nursing and Midwifery at The Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Karen Strickland, The Robert Gordon University
LinkedIn: http://uk.linkedin.com/pub/karen-strickland/41/52b/3bb

ResearchGate: http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Karen_Strickland/

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Published

2014-07-20

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Section

Review Papers