Recognising Educator Excellence - Dr Peter Rutledge wins 2012 Award

Pearson Australia is pleased to announce that the winner of the Pearson RACI Chemistry Educator of the Year Award is Dr Peter Rutledge of The University of Sydney. Peter was presented with the award at the RACI dinner and awards ceremony in Melbourne in November 2012. Peter's prize included $3500 and a commemorative trophy.

The RACI judging panel provided the following statement:

"Peter has demonstrated notable teaching leadership through a number of key initiatives to enhance the student experience in Chemistry and more widely in science.  He has been at the forefront of integrating research and inquiry methods into lecture, tutorial and laboratory courses. His review of the core chemistry units of study at Sydney University resulted in the introduction of a system which delivers high quality and rapid feedback for large classes. This has now spread outside chemistry into other disciplines and was recognised through the University of Sydney Vice Chancellor's Award for Support of the Student Experience in 2010 and the National ALTC Award for Programs that enhance Learning in 2011. 

"Peter's enthusiasm for teaching extends from the University to the wider community where he has connected with hundreds of high school students as the RACI Nyholm Youth Lecturer plus outreach programs with the NSW Department of Education and Training, the Australian Museum, the Powerhouse Museum and the Macleay Museum. 

"His passion and commitment to excellence in teaching inspire not only his students but also his colleagues."

Each year nominations are accepted from university staff of all levels, whose primary activity is teaching in undergraduate or postgraduate chemistry courses. The Pearson RACI Centenary of Federation Chemistry Educator of the Year Award is judged by a panel assembled by RACI.

The award, aimed to encourage and recognise innovative teaching practices in Chemistry Education, recognises outstanding contributions to teaching in terms of:

* Interest and enthusiasm for teaching
* Promoting student learning
* Imaginative presentation of course material
* Command of the subject matter
* Participation in professional activities and research relating to teaching

Pearson would like to congratulate Peter and thank all those who participated in the 2012 award. We would also like to thank the judges for their time and effort given in selecting the winner.

Previous winners

• 2011 Dr Mark Ellison, ANU
• 2010 Dr Siegbert Schmid, The University of Sydney 
• 2009 Dr Ian Jamie, Macquarie University
• 2008 Dr Greg Dicinoski, The University of Tasmania
• 2007 Dr Magdalena Wajrak, Edith Cowan University

Information regarding the 2013 award will be posted on this page as soon as it available. For enquiries please contact:

Scott Charles
Marketing Manager - Direct
Pearson Australia
Suite A, Level 2
57 Coronation Drive
Brisbane QLD 4000

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Phone: (07) 3016 7311