Matthew Nicholls and Elizabeth McCrum awarded National Teaching Fellowships

Friday, 01 September 2017

Elizabeth McCrum and Matthew Nicholls

The creator of the Virtual Rome project and a leader in teaching in Higher Education have been awarded prestigious National Teaching Fellowships by the Higher Education Academy.

The awards to Dr Matthew Nicholls, Associate Professor of Classics, and Professor Elizabeth McCrum, Teaching and Learning Dean, recognise their efforts to achieve excellence in teaching in Higher Education.

Professor Elizabeth McCrum has previously held a number of leadership roles in teaching and learning, including as Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning for the Faculty of Science and as School Director of Teaching and Learning for the School of Education. Elizabeth has had a career-long interest in authentic and accessible curricula and pedagogy, leading a number of projects to improve the academic experience of students.

Dr Matthew Nicholls brings ancient history to life using modern technology. His 3D digital models of ancient Rome enhance student learning at the University of Reading and have also enabled tens of thousands of people worldwide to experience the ancient city in virtual reality, via a popular free online course.

Senior leaders from the University of Reading praised Elizabeth and Matthew on their awards. Professor Gavin Brooks, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning said:

“These awards are a wonderful accomplishment and well deserved, and both are ambassadors for the excellent teaching that we have here at the University of Reading. 

“Elizabeth is one of the most talented and able senior teaching and learning colleagues I have worked with, and Matthew’s award-winning work on digital teaching and learning is transforming university teaching and public engagement.”

HEA Chief Executive, Professor Stephanie Marshall, said:

“A National Teaching Fellowship is the most prestigious individual award for excellence in teaching in higher education. These awards represent a fantastic achievement by all 55 new NTFs. I am sure the whole sector joins me in applauding them in their success.

“The new NTFs … represent some of the very best teaching in higher education and I am sure they will inspire others as we share their innovative practice and ideas across the sector. The UK is justifiably proud of its higher education sector and its reputation is enhanced by the examples of excellent teaching highlighted by these awards.”