WIHEA & IATL were delighted to welcome Dr Chris Thompson, Associate Dean of Education in Science and Senior Lecturer at Monash University, who joined colleagues here at Warwick for a week under the Monash Warwick Alliance Visiting Educator Scheme.

Dr Chris Thompson is a teaching-focused academic with an active research portfolio in education publications in chemistry and science pedagogy, currently supervising five PhD students in the field. Chris has been involved in the design and implementation of the 'Performing Chemistry' project as one of the two Monash-based leaders since the beginning. This visit enabled further exploration of the use of digital technology to make the practce sustainable.

Dr Jonathan Heron, IATL, co-ordinated the visit, which took place at the start of the Spring Term 2017. Prof Peter Sadler and Dr Isolda Romero-Canelon, Chemistry, are to further develop the collaborative work with Monash which has enabled students to learn beyond the traditional boundaries of arts and science.

During his visit, Chris delivered a number of presentations within the Chemistry Department on innovation teaching, and sharing practices through Unit Enhancement, Lecture Access and the roll-out of Peer Partnerships.

In addition, Chris shared his insights and expertise with WIHEA Fellows and Staff from across the University during two interactive Masterclasses, where he facilitated discussions to explore the future of traditional lectures and supported staff interested in pedagogical research.

Chris delivered two Masterclasses during his visit:

• Is there a Future for the Lecture? An interactive workshop for Warwick staff around the theme of lectures, discussing the relevance of 'lectures' and the role of expert lectures. Presentation slides and video to follow shortly.

• Getting Started in Pedagogical Research. A workshop specifically designed for staff starting out in the field of pedagogical research. Presentation slides and and video to follow shortly.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Performing Chemistry Project or Dr Chris Thompson's visit, please contact Dr Jonathan Heron, IATL by email: Jonathan.Heron@warwick.ac.uk.