Back in May we reached out to the learning and teaching community seeking feedback on a discussion paper for a proposed summative peer review of teaching process. We are now sharing details of the feedback we received, together with responses to the questions raised by staff and a plan for a collaborative way forward. 

Your feedback

We received 84 written responses from individuals and groups and discussions were held with approximately 170 staff members.

The dominant theme in the feedback was concern about the current context of change, high workloads and limited resources. It is clear that staff are operating in a high stress and low morale environment. There was nonetheless detailed constructive feedback on the process and its implementation, including suggestions for reviewer qualifications and operational aspects.

The Feedback Report summarises the feedback received and the appendix provides links to the full text of feedback (anonymised where appropriate). This will be tabled at the next meetings of SLTC and ASQC and will also be shared with Faculty committees.

The way forward through collaboration

The Education Strategy Committee has endorsed a peer review of teaching pilot during Session 1, 2022. This will involve a small number of volunteer reviewees and peer reviewers who would collaborate to co-create the process and evaluate the effectiveness of the pilot. The aim would be to collaboratively develop a scheme that evidences and recognises good practice in teaching. This would include revising the process proposed in the discussion paper, updating associated resources, and collaborating on training and assessment for reviewers. The feedback endorses an approach that is developmental rather than summative.

The outcome of the pilot will be recommendations for peer review of teaching, and a process for reviewing online learning, educational practice (including assessment) and teaching leadership.

Thank you for your engagement with the peer review conversation

The Professional Learning & Staff Development Team would like to thank everyone who participated in discussions or contributed their feedback, suggestions or queries in response the initial proposal.

Questions: professional.learning@mq.edu.au

Posted by L&T Development

The Learning and Teaching Staff Development team works with staff across the University to ensure they are supported to facilitate quality learning for students. This includes offering professional development, contributing to curriculum and assessment design, recognising and rewarding good practice, supporting peer review of teaching, and leading scholarly reflection. Email professional.learning@mq.edu.au with questions or requests.

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