Catering Lecturer, Otago Polytechnic

"Each student brings different perspectives and consequently their needs and desired outcomes differ, depending on their ambitions".

Adrian commenced teaching seven years ago, following a chance meeting with a previous lecturer. Adrian describes his teaching ambition as being to “inspire, motivate and teach them [students]” in a way that enables him to “Light the fire in their minds”. In order to achieve this goal, Adrian takes care to create a learning environment that embraces the diversity of his students and that ensures all students have the opportunity to contribute to and participate in the learning process.

He regularly adopts an active, co-operative learning strategy in which students with different experiences and knowledge are paired, thus providing a collaborative learning effort. A particular strength of Adrian’s is his use of on-line technology that enables him to bring innovative approaches to his teaching thus providing flexibility in workplace learning practices. Remaining attentive and responsive to industry trends is vital in Adrian’s work.

He is an active member of the New Zealand Chefs Association and works closely with industry and draws on feedback from colleagues, students and ITO moderators to reflect on and inform his practice.