Using evidence to drive innovation in learning and teaching

Professor Tina Overton, Monash University

The world faces many challenges which our graduates will be at the forefront of tackling. The traditional science education which provides them with an extensive science knowledge can only partially prepare them for a lifetime of work in which they will be tackling problems which we cannot imagine existing. Consequently, the curriculum has to change in order to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills and attributes which will enable them to succeed in an increasingly competitive and challenging environment. Curriculum development, especially within higher education, has often happened in a piecemeal way, influenced by individual academics’ research interests, personal views or current fashion. There is a need to base such development on sound research evidence and this seldom happens. This presentation will discuss the role of research in developing a contemporary, fit for purpose science degree programme. The case will be supported by examples from the literature.