Teaching and Learning Conference 2024 Gets Academic Year Off to a Strong Start
- Friday, 20 September 2024
The new academic year at Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai has started off strongly with a two-day teaching and learning conference.
The conference, which brought together academics and expert practitioners, explored the different educational considerations, benefits, and challenges in the design, implementation, and delivery of Transnational Education (TNE).
Held on 11 and 12 September 2024, the event showcased the latest considerations in TNE around the world, including ideas, trends, and challenges, and provided a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and networking across institutions. Day one was held exclusively online, allowing a global audience to attend, while day two took place on the University’s Dubai Knowledge Park campus.
As universities aim to cater to rapid change and growth due to globalisation, advancements in technology, and shifting communities, TNE offers access to more Higher Education institutions and creates ‘borderless’ education for students pursuing tertiary degrees.
MDX Dubai falls under the category of TNE as the institution’s home campus, founded in 1878, is based in Hendon, London, with a further campus in Mauritius opening in 2009. TNE allows MDX students to access international education without having to relocate, providing opportunities for global learning and collaboration.
Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University and Director of Middlesex University Dubai, opened the conference with reflections on the reciprocal benefits of TNE partnerships. Other speakers included Professor Mark O’Hara, Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, who explored the main themes that transcend successful, bidirectional TNE partnerships.
MDX Dubai also hosted two panel discussions. The first focussed on ‘Student Perspectives’ during which MDX Dubai students gave their honest and authentic views on their journey at a TNE institution, and the second by Advance-HE on ‘Empowering Educators’, which gave insights on the benefits of external support and acknowledgment for active engagement.
Professor Tenia Kyriazi, Deputy Director for Teaching & Learning, said: “My thanks go to all our brilliant speakers that were engaging, generated debate, and provided networking opportunities.
“Across the two days there was significant discussions held on education topics related to technology, careers, pedagogy, and community. We hosted presenters and attendees from all three MDX campuses, as well as TNE Higher Education Institutions from around the world.
“The event highlighted important topics in TNE, fostering industry connections, providing actionable insights, and allowing opportunities for future collaboration that will benefit the sector.”
The event was organised by the Teaching and Learning Committee at Middlesex University Dubai.
