About me
As an academic, I am deeply invested in how education contributes to individuals, their communities and society more broadly. As Associate Dean of Engagement (Schools and Youth), I contribute to the important work of connecting children and young people with Murdoch University. The School of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences provides a platform to engage our young people in matters of personal, local and global significance.
My teaching, research and service focus on the ways education supports learning throughout life and underpins the wellbeing, capacity and cohesion of communities. I am motivated by evidence-based, innovative and contemporary practice, strong partnerships between universities, schools and communities, and committed to promoting responsive and student-centred pedagogies. I am keenly interested in the implications of the changing nature of life and work for our young people and the need to engage them in issues that will shape their lives.
These interrelated themes explore life transitions (from learning to working and across life stages) to better understand and emphasise enabling conditions and resources that support people to thrive within complex, contemporary professional roles and contexts. My research seeks to contribute to this broad agenda through examinations of these interconnected themes:
- Understanding effective preparation for life beyond study
- Effective (productive and responsive) management of learning environments
- Learning across career stages
- Professional identity work, resilience and wellbeing across career stages
- Evaluation of workplace policy and practice
- Qualitative research methods
High quality education systems contribute to vibrant, functional and productive societies. Learning within these systems relies on effective management of resources, deep funds of knowledge, responsive interpersonal relationships and high regard for the care and wellbeing of all community members. My research helps me to understand these interrelated issues and how they reflect sound educational policy, ongoing professional learning, experienced leadership practice, and, how work occurs within systems where the personal and professional wellbeing of individuals and groups are prioritised.