Tell us a little about yourself
I have taught at the university for over 20 years. I joined the university to help develop students’ skills, knowledge, and capabilities over a three-year period rather than one to three weeks.
I enjoy seeing students grow into independent practitioners who strive to make a change in their worlds to help other people and/or the environment. I enjoy being part of a staff team that is both critical of existing practice and creative in making contemporary changes.
What’s your industry background?
I worked in both field studies and outdoor educational centres for 8 years in the UK and USA. I have also run my own landscaping business. My transition to academia was a logical progression to share my practice while allowing myself to step back, reflect, and evaluate what I should be doing.
Can you tell us about your research?
My research has focused on how effective our teaching on the course has been over the last 20 years. I have interviewed many past students who are now working in various outdoor and environmental roles.
These students can vividly recount their learning experiences and apply the ideas they explored during the courses to new scenarios and workplaces. It is rewarding to see that the principles of the course live on through the future practice of our students.
What might surprise people to learn about you?
I commute to work on my bike to stay fit, reduce my footprint, and have fun. I am now on my fourth lap around the world in terms of commuting distance. Read more here!
What modules do you teach?
My current favourite module to teach is *Exploring Coastal Environments*. The students learn the skills to plan and undertake an expedition along the UK coast using sea kayaks.
As they paddle along the coast, students choose what they are inspired to learn about in and for the environment. This module epitomises how learning and adventure are synonymous. It is a module where I am a student too, as each year I learn something new. It is a great privilege to join the students on their learning journeys.
What’s your favourite thing about teaching at Cumbria?
The flexibility to help students determine their own learning journey and to get to know students as individuals, not just numbers.
What makes your course different?
The outdoor courses have many unique features. We are fortunate to have access to a fantastic environment full of diverse opportunities right on our doorstep in Cumbria.
We teach in an experiential and emergent way that opens up possibilities for a wide range of learners. Our students rise to the challenges we set, becoming creative and independent learners. We learn from many great residentials, both in the UK and mainland Europe.
What advice would you give to students considering studying on this course?
I would encourage students to reflect on what they want to learn about the outdoors and the environment. How would you like to learn? Do your aspirations align with our vision for how and what students learn at the University of Cumbria?
Do you have empathy for why we teach and learn about the outdoors? If the answers are positive, then perhaps we are the course for you.