Heriot-Watt Inspiring Learning New Year Lecture 2025 “Supporting Learning in a Multicultural Environment: The Richness and Challenge of Diverse Universities”
January 16, 2025 @ 8:00 am – 9:00 am
We are delighted to announce that Prof. Leon Tikly, University of Bristol will give this year’s annual Inspiring Learning New Year Lecture.
Title: “Supporting Learning in a Multicultural Environment: The Richness and Challenge of Diverse Universities”
Date: Thursday 16 January 8-9am UK | 12-1pm Dubai | 4-5pm Malaysia
Location: Online via Zoom (BSL interpretation available)
The Heriot-Watt University ‘Inspiring Learning’ New Year Lecture 2025 will be delivered by Prof. Leon Tikly, University of Bristol, on the topic of “Supporting Learning in a Multicultural Environment: The Richness and Challenge of Diverse Universities”.
Abstract
In today’s globalised world, universities are microcosms of diversity, bringing together students and staff from varied experiences, cultures, backgrounds, and geographies. This lecture explores the dual aspects of challenge and enrichment within such diverse academic communities. We will delve into strategies for effectively engaging students, emphasising the importance of inclusivity in addressing issues of accessibility, language barriers, and socio-economic disparities. Additionally, we will discuss the relevance of curricula that resonate with community needs and global challenges.
Drawing on a robust evidence base, this lecture will highlight best practices and innovative approaches that support learning in multicultural settings. We will examine how diversity enriches the educational experience, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment. The session will also provide practical implications for teaching practices, offering insights into how educators can adapt their methods to better serve a diverse student body. By understanding and embracing the richness of diversity, universities can create supportive and effective learning environments that prepare students to thrive in an interconnected world.
About the speaker
Leon Tikly is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences and UNESCO Chair on Transforming Knowledge and Research for Just and Sustainable Futures at the University of Bristol. Leon is a visiting Professor at the University of Cape Town as part of a collaboration programme between the universities of Bristol and Cape Town where he is Co-PI with Powell (UCT) on a project on embedding socially engaged research at UCT. He has recently directed a UKRI-funded network plus on Transforming Education for Sustainable Futures with partners in India, Rwanda, Somalia/ Somaliland and South Africa (UKRI; £4.75 million; 2019-23). His scholarship over many years has focused on globalisation and education policy in the postcolonial world and on initiatives to improve the quality of education for disadvantaged learners, particularly in Africa. Between 2005-11 he directed a research programme consortium on Improving Education Quality in Low Income Countries (EdQual) (DfID; £2.5 million). He has also conducted a number of research projects and written extensively on issues of race, ethnicity and education in the UK and globally. More recently he has written at the intersection between decolonial scholarship and education for sustainable futures. His work is informed theoretically by critical realism, postcolonial and decolonial perspectives and is underpinned by a commitment to social, environmental and epistemic justice.
Accessibility
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The Heriot-Watt New Year Lecture 2025 is open to all Heriot-Watt staff and colleagues across the tertiary education sector. There will be an opportunity for attendees to participate in a Q&A session after the lecture. Book your place via MS Forms.