This is how I teach
This month we spoke with Ms Jill Bauer, a Scholarly Teaching Fellow with the School of Agricultural Science.Ìý With a diverse 25-year career in the wine industry, Jill enjoys imparting her passion for wine science to her students.Ìý
Her innovative teaching approach, combining contemporary teaching methods and the use of the latest technology has recently been recognised through her shortlisting for a 2023 STEMM Educator of the Year award. Read on to discover how she creates a positive learning environment where students of all backgrounds are challenged to succeed.
How would you describe your approach to teaching/yourÌýteaching philosophy?
My philosophy of teaching encompasses open communication and collaboration with students, colleagues and industry.Ìý The foundation of this is a pedagogy of care, where mutual respect and authentic dialog are critical components to construct an engaged learning environment. The winery can present as an intimidating environment for students who have yet to experience commercial-scale machinery.Ìý It is challenging to persuade some less confident students to lean into their skill development.Ìý I lead by example in the winery, taking a hands-on approach in the cellar where I challenge students to dive into the work, and, armed with the science, to develop their personal approach to winemaking. Partnering with students in this way provides a safe environment for them to build confidence and take ownership of their knowledge.
Vintage is dynamic; we teach seven days a week between February and May.Ìý In this intense and condensed learning environment, I offer support, welcome consultation and enjoy the inevitable debate that wine inspires. The wine industry is ever-evolving, technologically and stylistically. Ther