Distinguished Teacher Award 2023 recipients

Dear colleagues and students

In recognising outstanding teaching at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and acknowledging contributions to the promotion of teaching and learning excellence at the institution, the Distinguished Teacher Award (DTA) is handed out annually to deserving recipients.

The DTA Committee selects awardees after a meticulous assessment of a large pool of portfolios submitted by eligible candidates. The committee engages each teaching portfolio, examining the evidence for excellence in teaching over several years.

Nominees for the teaching award are required to submit a portfolio that demonstrates their teaching philosophy and pedagogical approach, addressing challenges in teaching and learning at UCT and beyond. The portfolio should also highlight their contributions to curriculum renewal and transformation, their impact on students outside formal teaching, and their influence on colleagues through collaboration and professional development.

Additionally, the committee looks for evidence of inclusivity in teaching, accommodating diverse learners and fostering an inclusive environment. Strong reflection on their teaching practice, including how they adapt practice based on feedback, is essential. Nominees are encouraged to include scholarship of teaching and learning, relevant publications, conference participation and research projects related to teaching.

The DTA Committee has finalised its assessment of the portfolios in the current cycle, and I am pleased to announce the following Distinguished Teacher Award recipients for 2023:

1. Professor Brandon Collier-Reed – Department of Mechanical Engineering

Professor Brandon Collier-Reed, head of the Mechanical Engineering Department and former deputy dean, is recognised for his innovative and student-centered approach to teaching. His passion for curriculum development has led to significant transformation efforts, including the creation of new courses and a capstone project with national impact on engineering education.

Professor Collier-Reed’s teaching philosophy emphasises student agency and engagement, viewing education as a guided apprenticeship where students become part of a professional community. His research on multilingualism and academic literacies has helped students overcome language and skills gaps, demonstrating his commitment to student success.

The DTA Committee commended his reflective and critical stance on student feedback, particularly his insights on how evaluations can sometimes be misused, and his commitment to using them productively to improve teaching.

His scholarly work in the field of education, including several publications on the scholarship of teaching and learning demonstrates his dedication to advancing teaching practices not just for himself but for the broader academic community.

Professor Collier-Reed’s influence extends beyond his students to the broader profession. His involvement with the South African Society for Engineering Education and the Engineering Council of South Africa underscores his national impact on teaching and professional development. His innovation in curriculum development, dedication to student success and reflective teaching practice make him a deserving recipient of the Distinguished Teacher Award.

2. Dr George Hull – Department of Philosophy

Dr George Hull, a senior lecturer in the Department of Philosophy, has earned the Distinguished Teacher Award for his transformative approach to teaching and curriculum development. Dr Hull describes his pedagogy as one of discomfort and empowerment, encouraging students to critically engage with challenging material. His work in courses like Philosophy of Race exemplifies this approach, as students often noted how his teaching pushed them outside their comfort zones while he maintains humility and objectivity in discussing sensitive topics.

Beyond his classroom, Dr Hull has been instrumental in leading curriculum renewal discussions both at UCT and nationally, making strides in a discipline traditionally seen as exclusive. His portfolio reflects a deep commitment to making philosophy accessible through initiatives like Philosophy for Non-Philosophers and his work in business ethics. He is known for bringing philosophy out of the academic realm into broader society, engaging with guest lecturers and collaborating internationally.

Dr Hull’s impact extends to his colleagues, where he fosters horizontal discussions and engages in reflective practices. His teaching philosophy has evolved based on feedback, showcasing his willingness to continually refine his approach. The committee praised Dr Hull for his innovation, inclusivity and his ability to make philosophy relevant and transformative.

3. Dr Yunus Omar – School of Education

Dr Yunus Omar is a senior lecturer in the School of Education. His teaching philosophy, influenced by feminist pedagogy and a zero-tolerance framework, is grounded in creating a classroom environment defined by respect, humility and inclusivity.

Dr Omar’s colleagues describe him as a "conductor of a symphony" in his lectures, where he skillfully facilitates engagement and critical debate. His open-door policy encourages colleagues and students to provide feedback, reflecting his commitment to continuous improvement. His attentiveness to students’ unique needs and his dedication to fostering lifelong learning are key to his approach.

Beyond his classroom impact, Dr Omar has been a leader in curriculum renewal, collaborating with colleagues and serving as a departmental transformation representative. His efforts extend to organising seminars and the Neville Alexander Conference, further highlighting his influence on curriculum development.

Dr Omar’s transformative approach to education has left a lasting impact on students, many of whom credit his teaching with shaping their academic paths and broader societal roles. His dedication to inclusivity, innovation and lifelong learning makes him a deserving recipient of the Distinguished Teacher Award.

4. Dr Bianca Tame – Department of Sociology

Dr Bianca Tame is a lecturer in the Department of Sociology. The committee recognises her for her exemplary contributions to teaching and curriculum innovation. Her teaching approach, rooted in Freirean and social constructivist frameworks, reflects a strong commitment to decolonial pedagogy and theorising from the Global South. Dr Tame’s teaching philosophy, described as a “work in progress," exemplifies her humility and dedication to continuous self-reflection and improvement.

The committee praised her ability to demystify complex concepts for students, guiding them through challenging material with clarity and accessibility. She actively incorporates student feedback into her teaching, fostering an environment where students see themselves as co-creators of knowledge. Her innovative use of teaching modalities and her inclusion of feedback in lecture slides enhance student engagement and learning.

Dr Tame’s contributions extend beyond her own courses, as she collaborates with colleagues on departmental improvements and supports tutor development. Her responsiveness to feedback and commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive learning environment have had a lasting impact on both students and colleagues. Dr Tame’s innovative, reflective and inclusive teaching practices make her a deserving recipient of this award.

Please join me in congratulating our 2023 awardees!

Sincerely

Emer Prof Linda Ronnie
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning

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