Fellow awarded National Teaching Fellowship

Dr. Keith Johnstone, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Plant Sciences, has won a national award for his part in improving teaching and learning across the biological sciences at Cambridge University.

The National Teaching Fellowship Scheme (NTFS) chose fifty winners from a record 242 nominations from universities and colleges across the country. The scheme recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to raising standards in further education.

Through his experience as a lecturer and supervisor, Dr. Johnstone realised that students varied in the way they learnt and sometimes had unexpected needs. Working alongside the Centre for Applied Research in Educational Technologies (CARET), Dr. Johnstone developed 3-D computer models to help first year biology students understand complex molecular structures. In parallel he introduced the on-line learning environment called'˜Coursework' for students taking courses in the Natural Sciences Tripos and set up Cam Communities for their supervisors.

“This award will provide access to a highly regarded, increasingly influential and highly committed group of educational practitioners,” said Dr. Johnstone.'œIt will therefore enhance our current programme of educational innovation in Plant Sciences and the University as a whole."

Dr. Johnstone is currently leading a ground-breaking project funded by the Cambridge-MIT Institute to devise and implement new teaching practices. The National Fellowship includes a prize of £10,000 which will be used to support his future work.