Dr Ruth Watkins

Dr Ruth Watkins is currently Head of Student Learning Services at the University of Stirling and has professional interests in student learning, academic support and academic literacy, assessment and feedback, widening participation, and student retention and progression. She originally studied for a BSc. in Geology (Cardiff University) and a PhD. in Paleoecology (Bangor University). Lecturing posts followed at Trinity College, Dublin (Botany) and at the University of the West of Scotland (Earth Sciences and Civil Engineering). Throughout this time, she was engaged in programme and curricula design, delivery and assessment, residential fieldwork and student support. She was also a STEM Ambassador and organised a wide range of outreach activities including workshops with local schools, events for the local community and activities within the National Park. Gaining Fellowship of the ILTHE (now Advance HE) and a PGCert. (Tertiary Teaching Methods in HE) resulted in a change of career and in 2004, Ruth accepted the role of Head of Student Learning Services at the University of Stirling.  Impact of work Her pedagogy is evidence-based, and is characterised by inclusivity, collaborative practices and curiosity. Staff consultation, development and mentoring are becoming increasingly important. She was Institutional Lead (2014-2016) for the QAA Enhancement Theme, 'Student Transitions' and in 2015 became a Senior Fellow of Advance HE (HEA).   Student feedback indicates that she has sustained a positive impact on the student experience and on student retention. Ruth is regularly nominated for the University of Stirling student-led awards under a number of different categories, and in 2016 was presented with the University of Stirling's 'Santander Outstanding Achievement Award'. Her work is underpinned by scholarship: she is an external examiner, regularly present at internal and external conferences, runs small grant projects and writes peer-review articles.  Plans for the future Ruth's role and responsibilities at the University of Stirling are varied and include managing a small team of Effective Learning Advisors, planning and strategy, contributing to university initiatives and policy, collaborating with colleagues and working with students. The overall aim of the service to enhance the student learning experience by promoting academic skills within the disciplinary context and by delivering student modules, workshops and tutorials.