Dr. Shannon Murray helps launch the International Federation of National Teaching Fellows
UPEI’s Dr. Shannon Murray was part of a delegation to the British House of Lords for the official launch of the International Federation of National Teaching Fellows (IFNTF). The fellowship brings together professors who have been recognized for excellence in teaching to share best practices and to develop evidence-based pedagogy.
“The national teaching fellows are leaders devoted to innovation and good practice in higher education in their own countries,” said Dr. Murray, professor of English at UPEI, coordinator of the 3M National Teaching Fellows’ program for Canada, and a 3M National Teaching Fellow herself. “This new federation is an exciting opportunity to make that national focus a global one. It was a thrill to be there and an honour to meet so many extraordinary teachers.”
The IFNTF seeks to unite teaching fellows in countries where a national program similar to Canada’s exists, including Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
“UPEI is delighted that professor Murray is representing our 3M National Teaching Fellows at this prestigious event,” said Dr. Robert Gilmour, vice-president academic and research at UPEI. “Inclusion of UPEI faculty in the IFNTF will increase interactions between outstanding teachers around the globe and further enhance the impact of UPEI professors on our students.”
The volunteers behind the IFNTF look to hold a yearly summit on teaching and learning—the first being held in February, 2017 in Birmingham, U.K. They also hope to bring together international student fellows, establish a journal, and create a new “Teacher of the World” award to recognize outstanding educators from around the world.
The University of Prince Edward Island prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions—Prince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan’s University—UPEI has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. UPEI is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island.
