IT TOOK one documentary based on a forensic scientist and one particular episode focused on the scientist figuring out which of the presenters had broken a glass window, that began Dr Sarah Cresswell’s prestigious academic career.
In February, Universities Australia awarded the Birkdale resident, an Australian Award for University Teaching (AAUT) – for teaching excellence in the field of science and forensic chemistry.
The award recognised Dr Cresswell, Associate Professor at Griffith University, for her work over the past 20 years and for creating an “authentic work environment for students to develop curiosity, critical thinking and analytical skills”.
Dr Cresswell said: “Forensic science is a relatively straightforward way of teaching students about being curious and questioning and being critical of evidence.”
She said she moved on to be a teaching intensive profile around 2013 because she found her strengths in that area of work.
“I still have research students, I’ve got quite a number of PhD students doing research with me, both at university and around the world,” she said.
“These awards look at teaching and they’re one of probably the only awards in Australia that focus solely on excellent teaching, which is why they are so prestigious, I suppose.
“Many people look to apply to them, and I am very grateful to be a recipient.”
Among the congratulations was a post from the Birkdale Scout Group, where Dr Cresswell commits her time as a Scout Leader.
Universities Australia Chair Professor David Lloyd and CEO Luke Sheehy congratulated the 2023 recipients.
“Teachers have one of the most important jobs in the world, and universities simply couldn’t do what they do each year without them,” Professor Lloyd said.
FAST FACTS
The 2023 AAUT recipients were recognised for excelled contribution to teaching, mentoring and educating professionals l The award scheme runs in two tiers, a citation tier and then the full award tier.
Dr Cresswell won a citation tier award in 2018.
