Stornoway lecturer recognised in student awards

A Stornoway-based academic has been named as the University of the Highlands and Islands’ ‘Most Engaging Online Tutor’. Dr Eddie Graham, a meteorologist and lecturer at Lews Castle College UHI, was nominated for the accolade by students in the university’s annual teaching awards.

Dr Graham was praised for his enthusiasm and lively teaching style. One student explained: “I have just completed the module ‘climate, land and people’ which is the second module I have taken with Dr Edward Graham. Dr Graham does not just teach the module, he keeps the module interesting, the discussion board lively and the weekly tutorials very informative and something to look forward to. I strongly commend the energy and passion Dr Graham puts into his teaching. It is easy to see that he strongly believes in what he teaches and that really helps in keeping the class active and thoroughly interested in what we learn. Dr Graham is always available if we have any queries outside of class, actively participates and responds on the discussion board and explains module materials thoroughly. Dr Graham makes online learning feel as though we are actually in a classroom.”

Dr Graham will be presented with a trophy and certificate to recognise his success. This is the second time he has won a University of the Highlands and Islands teaching award, having also secured the title of ‘Most Engaging Video-conference Tutor’ in 2013. Speaking about his latest award, he said: “I am absolutely delighted and thrilled at winning this award! I feel a great sense of satisfaction to know that I am ‘doing the right thing.’ A huge thank you to all my students over the past year and to Lews Castle College UHI for their continual support.”

The University of the Highlands and Islands was one of the first UK institutions to introduce student-led teaching awards. The initiative, now in its sixth year, recognises excellence in seven categories, with winners coming from around the university partnership. Other staff who have received accolades this year are:

• Peter Noble, North Highland College UHI, ‘Most Inspiring Lecturer’
• Dr Elizabeth Ritchie, Centre for History, ‘Best Dissertation Supervisor’
• Anne Rodgers, Highland Theological College UHI, ‘Best Support Staff’
• Professor Kirsty Crocket, SAMS UHI, ‘Best Assessment Feedback’
• Dr Qusai Al-Hamdan, Perth College UHI, ‘Best Personal Academic Tutor’
• Silke Reeploeg, Shetland College UHI, ‘Most Engaging Video-conference Tutor’

Dr Iain Morrison, dean of students at the university, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone who was recognised in our teaching awards. The winners were chosen by the people who matter to us most - our students. Each winner, along with the many other nominees, should be proud of the positive impact they’ve had on the learners in our region. Students are at the heart of what we do and our wonderful lecturers and professional services staff are critically important in helping them achieve as much as they can.”