Dr Gill Seyfang’s innovative and creative approach to teaching environmental social science has been recognised with a prestigious University award. Dr Seyfang teaches ‘sustainable consumption’ within the School of Environmental Sciences at UEA, and focuses on how societies and modern lifestyles might adapt to become more environmentally and socially sustainable.

She has pioneered an approach to teaching which incorporates theatrical semi-improvised performances to convey key debates in the field, called ‘Theoretical Theatre’. This has been much enjoyed by students, who have seen improvements in their marks as a result of this fun approach to engaging students in teaching and learning. The methods have been supported by, and taken up by a number of her colleagues in other modules within the School.

UEA recognises and values excellence and innovation in learning and teaching and wishes to support its development. The UEA Excellence in Teaching Awards celebrate outstanding teaching, which is stimulating and challenging to students and makes a positive contribution to the University’s learning and teaching strategy.

A total of five prizes are awarded annually; one award offered to each of the 4 Faculties and a further 1 (or 2) awards to be made at the discretion of the panel. Prizes to the value of £1000 each are annually presented at Congregation in July.