Monday, July 6, 2026

8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

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Overview

FULL DAY WORKSHOP

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Details

Facilitators Dr Nicole Reinke, University of Sunshine Coast Mr Robert Kennelly, University of Canberra Dr Stu Schonell, Advocacy WA Mary-Ann Shuker, Griffith University Dr Chng Hui Ting, National University of Singapore Dr Dongmei Li & Dr Josephine Pryce, James Cook University Dr Yoko Mori, Institute of Science Tokyo Dr Ann Parkinson, University of the Sunshine Coast This workshop has a maximum capacity of 25 people. The fee for this workshop is partially subsidised by HERDSA as a benefit to members. Aim The aim of the Talking About Teaching and Learning (TATAL) workshop is to create a trusting, safe, and respectful space for cohorts of reflective practitioners to meet, discuss the pressures and changing nature of academic work, learn from each other, and develop their teaching philosophy. Focus The focus of this workshop is to: establish a safe, collaborative environment in which to investigate challenges and successes of teaching and learning; build confidence in articulating and writing about teaching and learning; and begin to articulate a personal teaching philosophy. Overview TATAL provides a forum to advance teaching practice through building on past research, engaging with contemporary pedagogies, and fostering collaborations. It increases educators’ resilience and understanding of teaching practice. By sharing their knowledge and collaboratively reflecting, participants contribute to each other’s professional learning and development (Scott et al., 2022). Since its inaugural workshop 12 years ago, TATAL has supported scholarly contributions in reflective teaching and learning (e.g., McCormack et al., 2023; Ruge et al., 2025; Scott et al., 2023). This 15th HERDSA TATAL workshop aligns with HERDSA’s mission to enhance teaching and learning and supports the conference themes: Re-envisioning Higher Education for Tomorrow’s Learners and Professional Learning for Changing Academic Practices. TATAL welcomes anyone who teaches others (e.g., academics, learning designers) and who seeks time and the support of like-minded others to develop an in-depth awareness of their teaching practice. Activities. The TATAL journey begins online, continues through the conference workshop, and extends post-conference via ongoing collaborative sessions. Pre-conference (from Monday 22 June 2026): participants will complete online modules containing content, discussion, and guided free-writing via the HERDSA TATAL LMS. Workshop (Monday 6 July 2026, 8:30am–3:30pm): Participants will engage in individual and small group activities, including free writing, reflective conversations, and teaching philosophy construction. Conference breakfast meeting (Wednesday 8 July 2026): Participants will meet experienced TATALers and form ongoing TATAL groups. Post-conference: Optional continued reflection and mentoring in TATAL groups. TATAL offers an opportunity for time-poor academics to devote time towards their own professional growth. Each workshop activity builds on the previous, to support the participants’ reflections and ongoing development.