Book of the year recognition for Solent professor

'Culturally Sensitive Curricula Scales: Researching, Evaluating and Enhancing Higher Education Curricula' outlines the conceptulisation, development and use of a titular set of tools which can be used to make positive curriculum and pedagogical changes in education.

Now, co-editors Dr Dave Thomas and Professor Kathleen M Quinlan are celebrating their book being shortlisted for the British Educational Research Associations' (BERA) coveted Educational Research Book of the Year award.

"To be recognised by BERA is a monumental achievement," Dave says. "It means so much to me because it not only affirms the importance of cultural sensitivity in education - the impact of cultural sensitivity in scholarship, curriculum and pedagogy - but also acknowledges the stories and experiences of the many students and educators who have inspired me to develop a suite of culturally sensitive curriculum tools, as well as those who have used the tools to support ongoing endeavours towards educational justice."

BERA's Educational Research Book of the Year award recognises an engaging and innovative publication of the highest quality. 'Culturally Sensitive Curricula Scales: Researching, Evaluating, and Enhancing Higher Education Curricula' is one of just three books to be shortlisted for this award, and extends scholarship Dr Thomas has already developed in this area.

Since its release, 'Culturally Sensitive Curricula Scales' has been downloaded by readers in 50 countries and is already being utilised by at least 30 universities globally to support their own curriculum and pedagogy. It has also been translated into two languages and engaged more than 8,000 students. The research this book presents directly supports both students and staff at higher education institutions to assess and improve the cultural sensitivity and inclusivity of their curriculum.

On Solent University's own inclusive curriculum, Dave says:

"We strive to create and sustain an inclusive working and learning environment that intentionally promotes a culture of equality of opportunity and fair treatment; acknowledges, values, respects and celebrates difference, and upholds the dignity of all students and staff, as well as those connected to the University."

Access the book here.