ENroute Yearbook 2016-17
A Final Word from the University ENroute Lead
There is a question that might be asked – why engage in the process of seeking
recognition as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy? We know that there are
many priorities, some of them competing. Do we have time for it?
Well, there is clear evidence in literature - and
anecdotally - that being recognised as a Fellow
is valued by the individual. This is not surprising
because it means that their practice aligns with an
international benchmark. We also know, again both
from literature and from what we are told, that the
process of gaining Fellowship is of itself valuable
because it creates the space for reflection and
enables the individual to see just how much they
have achieved.
The ENroute team at Edinburgh Napier believes
Dr Fiona Smart,
that both the process and the outcome of seeking
ENroute University Lead,
recognition as a Fellow does much more than this,
Senior Teaching Fellow
in that it directly supports the aspiration to be a
connected university within which we share our practice in the interests of our
students. This is, of course, one of the reasons why we have our annual Yearbook. It
is also why we continue to work to ensure that the ENroute team extends through
the university, engaging academics, professional services staff and, most recently,
PhD students who teach in its membership. I take this opportunity to thank all of
the mentors and reviewers for their sterling work this last academic year. ENroute
is enriched by the diversity of the team which supports it. It is also right that I thank
Kathryn James for her absolute commitment to ENroute. She not only led the
mentor team, but was key to building the ENroute philosophical base. We wish her
well in her new role at Lancaster University.
So, back to where I started. ENroute enables us to be a connected university, but
this doesn’t happen by magic. It happens because we want it to be thus, and
commit to playing our part in the process of drawing people into wanting to become
Fellows, and in maintaining their good standing once they have been recognised.
For note, good standing is one area in which we will be focusing our attention this
academic year.
As for the Yearbook itself, I hope you enjoy gaining insight into the practices of
individuals who have shared their case studies and take the time to read the
listing of mentors, reviewers and of course the Fellows who were successful in
their quest to be recognised in 2016/7. I am deeply proud to lead ENroute for
Edinburgh Napier University.
Dr Fiona Smart
University Lead for ENroute, Senior Teaching Fellow
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