Associate Professor David Birbeck

Dr David Birbeck is : Head Curriculum Development and Support in the Teaching Innovation Unit (TIU).

A key aspect of this role is the provision of support and advice to Academic Unit Dean of Programs and UniSA Online Associate Dean: UniSA Online to achieve stated priorities that aim to strengthen program curriculum, including an appropriate balance of traditional and technologically rich teaching practices.

David leads the development of professional development opportunities for staff involved in teaching and where appropriate may deliver activities. 

David is responsible for the co-ordinatoion, development and support of staff seeking teaching awards at both an Institutional and National level. As part of thsi role David chairs the Grants and Awards Panel (GAP) whose role it is to make recommendations to the Provost and Chief Acdemic Officer. 

David is a member of numerous committees and reserach groups including;

• Student Appeals Committee under the auspices of University Council
• Student and Academic Policy Advisory Group (SAPAG) under the auspices of Academic Board
• Healthy Development Adelaide
• Higher Education Research and Development Society of Australiasia 
• Chair: Grants and Awards Panel
• Assessor: Australian Awards for University Teaching (AAUT)
• Reviewer: Summtive Peer Review of Teaching 

His research focus is on curriculum learning design and design sustainability particularly how our understanding of curriculum affects our ability to enact student centred practices, equity and inclusion. David’s approach to education is through ‘theorised practice’ or what is sometimes described as ‘practical theory’ emphasising the importance of agency.

David's qualifictaions include Bachelor of Education with 1st class honours and PhD. 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Philosophy University of South Australia

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