Enhancing the effectiveness of administrative support for learning and teaching using workplace projects in lower-income countries.
- Resource Type
- Article
- Authors
- Willis, Ian, ; Jennings, Brian
- Source
- Innovations in Education & Teaching International; Feb2020, Vol. 57 Issue 1, p4-15, 12p
- Subject
- Teaching
Career development
Learning
Educators
Work environment
- Language
- ISSN
- 14703297
Middle-level administrators in African universities are often under-utilised in terms of their contribution to the administrative support for learning and teaching. They also have little access to professional development. This paper presents the findings of a study to develop a programme to enable these administrators to enhance their support for learning and teaching in their institutions. Following a selection process based on their own universities and programme workshop sessions, participants carry out projects to 'make a difference' to administrative effectiveness. Analysis of project reports and participant interviews shows that the projects had a real impact, and this remains ongoing in many cases. The programme design is evaluated, and key elements highlighted: a locally based selection process; international accreditation; a strength-based approach and authentic assessment involving a workplace project and reflection on learning. Educators who work in similar 'lower-income country' contexts may find it constructive to make comparisons with their own experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]