This year, Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences is once again awarding a prize to two professors in recognition of their exceptional commitment to teaching and examples of good teaching practice.
Kleve/Kamp-Lintfort, 24 September 2013: Whilst the 2012 awards were judged on the criteria of learning outcomes and student satisfaction, this year’s prizes were awarded on the basis of innovation and practical relevance. In the ‘Foundational Lecture’ category, the prize went to Professor Dr Achim Kehrein from the Faculty of Technology and Bionics. Professor Dr Karsten Nebe from the Faculty of Communication and Environment received the teaching award in the ‘Projects/Work Placements/Seminar-based Exercises’ category.
The relatively young Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences aims, through its teaching prize, to emphasise that high-quality teaching and good student support are fundamental to the university’s ethos, and that it also wishes to recognise exceptional commitment.
“Teaching is my passion,” says Prof. Kehrein. In addition to specialist knowledge, he is particularly keen to impart overarching key skills to his students, whilst ensuring that content is presented in a practical, action-oriented way. Learning should be accessible. The fact that, through his unique approach, he helps students overcome their fear of mathematics – a subject often disliked – is a source of great satisfaction for everyone involved. He provides students with personalised feedback on their individual performance levels and areas for improvement – an approach that is hard to find at many other universities.
Prof. Nebe very deliberately prepares his students for professional life through practical simulation exercises. “The nominated course requires students to work hard. The teaching concept is based on the practical application of theoretical knowledge,” says Prof. Nebe. His aim is to encourage students to take personal responsibility for their actions – the best possible foundation for a successful career.
“Overall, the feedback from students shows that the two professors succeed in fostering young people’s interest in their respective subjects. Their commitment is extraordinary and, as a result, student satisfaction is exceptionally high,” notes Prof. Dr Anja Freifrau von Richthofen, Vice-President for Studies, Teaching and Continuing Education, with appreciation.
The teaching award was presented at a ceremony on 23 September as part of the freshers’ welcome event at the award winners’ campus. Here, the new students learnt first-hand that good teaching is not only desired but also recognised and valued.
