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Session 3630

Catalyzing Cultural Change in a Research Intensive University

David Radcliffe, Caroline Crosthwaite, Lesley Jolly School of Engineering / School of Social Sciences The University of Queensland Australia

Abstract The University of Queensland, a comprehensive, research intensive university, has established a Catalyst Centre in the School of Engineering, "to catalyze the development of a more diverse working, learning and research culture within engineering". The Centre is an incubator which fosters new modes of teaching and learning and conducts innovative socio -technical research focused on the many challenges facing engineering in the context of global changes in society, the environment and emerging technologies. The Centre provides a practical model for changing the culture from within in a research intensive university.

Background In 1998, the School of Engineering commissioned an independent review of the state of the culture in the School. The resultant Diversity Report made some 63 recommendations concerned with creating a more holistic culture in the School. A core recommendation was the formation of a Catalyst Centre as a day-to-day focus for implementing the recommendations of the Diversity Report. The other recommendations were grouped into headings and included; a team-based approach; communication, consultation and transparent processes; valuing teaching; inclusive staff and student recruitment; links with industry; support of new staff; network of women staff; career development for general staff; work & family, fresher support and tone setting; support of indigenous and international students; gender, cultural and disability awareness and research in diversity issues.

Independently, the University of Queensland and Thiess Pty Ltd formed a Strategic Learning Partnership in 1999, for the “joint development and delivery of commercially focused education and research and development programs for industry, using the facilities and expertise of Thiess and the University”. Through the Thiess-UQ partnership, a Chair in Engineering Education and Professional Development was established in 2000. The creation of this Chair was seen by the School of Engineering as pivotal to developing innovative responses to the many challenges facing engineering education in the context of global changes in engineering and technology.

Proceedings of the 2002 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright ã 2002, American Society for Engineering Education

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Crosthwaite, C., & Radcliffe, D. (2002, June), Catalysing Cultural Change In A Research Intensive University Paper presented at 2002 Annual Conference, Montreal, Canada. 10.18260/1-2--11150