Associate Professor David Birbeck

Associate Professor David Birbeck is Head of Curriculum Development and Support within the Teaching Innovation Unit at the University of South Australia (UniSA) and holds a fractional secondment as Associate Dean: UniSA Online, with responsibility for the UniStart pathways program. With over two decades of experience in academic development, curriculum innovation, and teacher education, David has made sustained contributions to advancing teaching excellence at both institutional and sector-wide levels.

David leads key initiatives that enhance academic capability in teaching and learning, including UniSA’s professional teaching programs and the coordination and development of academic teaching award applications. He also chairs the Grants and Awards Panel (GAP), supporting the recognition of teaching excellence. His leadership extends into university governance, where he actively shapes policy and strategic direction in teaching and learning, contributing to reforms that improve educational outcomes.

David is a longstanding participant in governance groups such as SAPAG and the Student Appeals Committee. He serves on the College of Reviewers for the Journal of Higher Education Research & Development (HERD) and is a member of the Council of Australasian University Leaders in Learning and Teaching (CAULLT). His research focuses on curriculum design, sustainability, with particular emphasis on equity and theorised practice. 

Council of Australasian University Leaders in Learning and Teaching (CAULLT)

College of Reviewers for the Journal of Higher Education Research & Development (HERD) 

Higher Education Research Network (HERN)

Qualifications

• Doctor of Philosophy University of South Australia

• Bachelor of Education in Junior Primary/Primary University of South Australia