Fellowship in applied learning awarded

Associate Professor Andy Martin of the School of Sport and Exercise has been awarded an academic fellowship in applied learning.

Applied learning often refers to a variety of practices including practicum, professional practice, clinical placement, internship and fieldwork.

But through the fellowship and a Special Interest Panel, what applied learning means for Massey students will be explored, with a much broader view of applied learning than others might use.

In the role, Dr Martin will develop a strategy that will ensure Massey produces not just work-ready graduates, but “career-ready, life-able graduates that are responsible and resilient”.

He will work with Student Engagement and Evaluations Unit manager Malcolm Rees, staff from across the academic colleges, and the National Centre for Teaching and Learning.

Dr Martin has been a leading researcher in the area, with research work and publications with Ako Aotearoa, contributions to the New Zealand Association of Cooperative Education, and a long-term role in co-ordinating the sport management practicum.

“These applied learning and networking opportunities, designed throughout a specific programme’s curriculum, often provide a point of difference for students in enhancing graduate employability,” he says.

This year, Massey celebrates 20 years of leading applied learning programmes in sport management.

Professor Tony Vitalis, who initiated the programme in 1992, says it “aimed to train individuals to manage the various sports organisations, which at the time was unique in the New Zealand tertiary sector”.

Recent graduate Hannah Dunn, who completed a Bachelor of Business Studies, says the practicum experience allowed her to increase her confidence and gain experience in the sports industry.

“It helped me create networks among the sports industry and gave me skills which will be transferable to a job,” she says.

For further information on applied learning please contact Associate Professor Andy Martin 06 369 9099 ext 81747.