Doubling engagement with professional learning by choosing your own adventure: the Modular Professional Learning Framework (MPLF), 19 May 2022

The University of Sydney team that presented this session received an ASCILITE Innovation Award in 2021 and in this presentation they highlighted the team’s reimagined continuing professional development (CPD) program for educators: the Modular Professional Learning Framework (MPLF).

The MPLF allows instructors to choose their own adventure through 21 bite-sized two-hour modules on effective and applied teaching practices. Built in collaboration with faculties and subject matter experts from across the institution, modules model hybrid and blended teaching, promote reflection, and focus on evidence-based practical applications covering diverse concepts including student engagement, educational technology, inclusivity and diversity, peer review, groupwork, assessment, and even career development. Modularisation, instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, allows educators to design their own CPD journey, and allows us to quickly adapt and share professional development. Educator engagement is up 75% with 3400+ module completions in two years, including uptake by two other institutions.

Presenters

Samantha Clarke is a marine geologist and academic developer and is currently a Senior Lecturer (Education-Focused) in the Educational Innovation team in the DVC (Education) Portfolio, Academic Co-lead of the MPLF, and Honorary Associate in the School of Geosciences.

Kimberly Baskin is a lecturer with the DVC (Education) portfolio. She currently provides coordination and design support for the University of Sydney’s flagship professional learning program; the MPLF and the institution-wide Sydney Educational Fellowship Program, which supports staff to attain Fellowship to AdvanceHE.

Danny Liu is a molecular biologist who has won multiple international, national, and university awards for learning and teaching, and is also a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy UK.

Eszter Kalman is a Senior Lecturer (Education-Focused) in the Educational Innovation team in the DVC (Education) Portfolio, she is responsible for the first line of support for educators at the University of Sydney. Eszter is currently a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy UK.

Jessica Frawley is currently a Senior Lecturer in Academic Development and Leadership in the Educational Innovation team in the DVC (Education) Portfolio, the Director of the Sydney Educational Fellowship Program, and an Honorary Associate in the Sydney School of Architecture, Design, and Planning. She has won national and university teaching awards for her work in student engagement and technology, and is also a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy UK.