The research-teaching nexus
The nexus between research and teaching has become increasingly important to research-led universities such as UNSW. In the past, such universities have tended to value research at the expense of teaching. More recently, they have become aware of the need to improve learning and teaching. As research-led universities, they can draw on traditional strengths, linking research to teaching to enhance the educational experience of their students and the professional experience of their staff.
As an academic at UNSW, you can link research and teaching in many ways. For example, you could:
Studies show that, when you explicitly link research and teaching, your students become aware that they are learning in a research-led university. Research-based activity can help you engage and excite students, so that they learn more deeply. It can also help students to develop key graduate attributes.
The research-teaching nexus can also benefit you, the academic. You might discover new areas for research - for example, research into student learning in your discipline. You will certainly get to know your students better, as you and they become part of a community of learners.
In this section of Learning & Teaching @ UNSW (L&T) website, you can find out more about the research-teaching nexus at UNSW, including recent faculty initiatives. In the case studies section, you can read about how your colleagues across UNSW are implementing the nexus. We have included a section on the scholarship of learning and teaching, as well as some tips for implementing the nexus yourself. You can also consult an extensive list of resources.
