In Conversation is a series of short video podcasts showcasing our academic colleagues’ experiences of delivering teaching and learning during the pandemic. Each podcast is structured around a specific theme where colleagues can explore the challenges of delivery in the digital void, provide practical solutions and share best practice.

Engaging Online

In this session, colleagues discuss their ideas, activities and experiences of fostering greater online engagement with students.

• Marjory Da Costa Abreu: Senior Lecturer, Applied Artificial Intelligence. Postgraduate research tutor in Computing. 
• Neil Mayne: Digital Learning and Development Manager, Academic Development and Diversity. 
• Jill Dickinson: Senior Lecturer, Law + Criminology. 

For access to more guidance, information and resources, visit the:

• Digital Capability, Skills and Support webpage. 
• Support for course and module design and delivery webpage.

Building Online Communities

In this session, colleagues discuss their experiences, tools and techniques of building online communities with Hallam students and staff and beyond.

• Marissa Hill: Head of Disabled Student Support and the Sheffield Regional Assessment Centre (SRAC). 
• Deanna Taylor: Senior Lecturer, Adult Nursing. Interprofessional Education Lead, Nursing and Midwifery Dept. 
• Lucy Kirkham: Principal Lecturer, Adult Nursing. Course Leader, BSc Nursing. 

For access to more guidance, information and resources, visit the Digital Capability, Skills and Support webpage. 

Digital Accessibility

In this session, colleagues discuss how digital accessibility techniques can be adopted to produce more inclusive teaching materials.

• Nick Russell: Web Accessibility Test and Training Manager 
• Kieran White: Graduate Intern, Digital Accessibility Project 
• Claire Hannah: Learning Technology Advisor, Digital Learning Team 

For access to more guidance, information and resources, visit the:

• Digital Capability, Skills and Support webpage. 
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) webpage. 

Staff Neuro-Divergent Voices

Helen Baxter, degree apprenticeship student in Occupational Therapy is currently on placement in the Allied Health Professionals department focussing on equality, diversity and leadership.

Helen has developed a series of podcasts of staff and students’ lived experiences. Aim of the project is to educate and raise awareness of ND and the implications in teaching and learning.  Hoping that the podcasts will promote a culture of action, encourage a truly inclusive approach and look at co-production and equity at Hallam. 

Our colleagues discuss their experiences: 

• Eric Baxter, Senior Lecturer in Mathematics
• Michelle Agus, Course Leader and Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy
• Julie Walters, Lincoln University, Senior Lecture on Occupational Therapy and is an ex Hallam PhD student and member of staff.

Student Neuro-Divergent Voices

Helen Baxter, degree apprenticeship student in Occupational Therapy is currently on placement in the Allied Health Professionals department focussing on equality, diversity and leadership.

Helen has developed a series of podcasts of staff and students’ lived experiences. Aim of the project is to educate and raise awareness of ND and the implications in teaching and learning.  Hoping that the podcasts will promote a culture of action, encourage a truly inclusive approach and look at co-production and equity at Hallam. 

Our current students talk about their experiences:

• Dee Leon
• Hayley Carmen
• Paula Thompson

Teaching Beyond the Screen

This session, colleagues talk about teaching online using digital platforms and highlighting the challenges and successes.

• Rebecca Hodgson, Associate Dean of Teaching and Learning
• Fazia Samreen, Senior Lecturer, Computing 
• Tom Payne, Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for BA Acting and Performance 

Get Involved

If you would like to see a specific theme explored or to share your experiences as a participant, please contact us at ! Academic Development & Diversity.

You can also take a look at a wide range of case studies, conference recordings and presentations, journal articles and book chapter on the Academic Essentials: Case Studies page.

Last updated: 19th July 2021 NB